Lemongrass Salt & Pepper Salmon

Vietnamese-Style Comfort Fish

(aka “What’s in the Fridge, But Make It Good”)

A Simple Fish Dish, Adapted at Home

This is one of those everyday comfort dishes that reminds me of home. In Vietnam, this kind of preparation is usually made with whatever fish is fresh and available—simple, practical, and full of flavor.

The fish is coated with lemongrass, salt, and chili, then left to rest before being pan-fried and served with steamed rice. It’s not fancy, but it’s the kind of meal that shows up again and again in home kitchens.

At home, I use salmon instead. It’s easy to find, rich, and holds up beautifully to the bold flavors. After resting in the seasoning, the fish becomes slightly firmer, and when pan-fried, it develops a golden crust while staying tender inside.

It’s not exactly the same as what I remember, but it carries the same feeling.

Simple ingredients. Warm rice. A meal you can make any day of the week.

Or as I like to call it: what’s in the fridge, but make it good.

Lemongrass Salt & Pepper Salmon

A simple, fragrant everyday comfort meal

This is one of my favorite everyday dishes—quick to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect with a bowl of steamed rice. The salmon is coated with lemongrass, salt, chili, and turmeric, then rested in the fridge to absorb the seasoning before pan-frying.

It’s simple, comforting, and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2–4 pieces salmon

• 2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped

• 1–2 tsp dried red chili flakes

• 1–1½ tsp sea salt

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• Black pepper (optional)

• 1–2 tbsp cooking oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix:

• chopped lemongrass

• chili flakes

• salt

• turmeric

• black pepper

2. Season the Salmon

Rub the mixture evenly over the salmon pieces, making sure all sides are coated.

3. Rest (Light Cure / Marinate)

Place the salmon in the fridge for:

• At least 30 minutes for a quick meal

• Up to 1–2 days for deeper flavor

Because of the salt, this acts like a light cure—it draws out moisture and intensifies flavor, but it’s not a full preservation method.

4. Pan-Fry

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat

2. Place salmon skin-side down

3. Cook until crispy, then flip

4. Cook until just done inside

To Serve

Serve with:

• steamed jasmine rice

• fresh cucumber or greens

• optional drizzle of fish sauce or chili sauce

Tofu Option (Vegetarian)

This works beautifully with:

• medium or soft tofu

Pat tofu dry, coat gently with the same mixture, and pan-fry until lightly golden.

What Is This Technique?

Add some green onions (optional )

Why I Love It

It’s the kind of dish you can prepare ahead, leave in the fridge, and cook whenever you need something warm and comforting.

Simple ingredients. Big flavor. No stress.