Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (100g) coarse kosher salt
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp (2g) cracked black pepper
- 2 tbsp (25g) brown sugar
- 1 tbsp (7g) smoked paprika
- 1 tsp (3g) garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp (1g) chili powder
- 1/2 tsp (3g) salt
- 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper
- 2 lbs (900g) center-cut salmon fillet, skin-on
Instructions:
- Combine the kosher salt, brown sugar, and cracked pepper in a small bowl until uniform.
- Rub the cure mixture generously over all sides of the salmon fillet.
- Place the salmon in a glass dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 12 hours.
- Remove the salmon from the fridge and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt.
- Use paper towels to dry the fillet completely.
- Place the fillet on a wire rack in the fridge for 1–2 hours uncovered to create a pellicle.
- Preheat oven to 225°F (105°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Smoky Rub ingredients and press them firmly into the top and sides of the fillet.
- Bake uncovered until a digital meat thermometer indicates an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Let the fish rest for 10 minutes before slicing.