Mediterranean Braised Salmon Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon green tea rubs (a mixture of green tea leaves, sugar, and spices)
• 1 lb (450g) fresh salmon fillets, skin on
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 fennel bulb, thinly sliced
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup chicken or fish broth
• 1/4 cup pitted black olives
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup capers
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts, for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Green Tea Rubs:

• Combine the green tea leaves, sugar, and spices in a small bowl to create the green tea rubs. This mixture will be used to season the salmon fillets.

Season the Salmon Fillets:

• Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub the green tea rubs all over the fillets, pressing the rubs into the flesh to ensure they adhere well.

Sauté the Aromatics:

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, or until fragrant.

Add the Vegetables and Liquids:

• Stir in the thinly sliced fennel and chopped tomato. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften. Pour in the white wine (if using) and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the chicken or fish broth, black olives, capers, and dried or fresh oregano.

Braise the Salmon:

• Nestle the seasoned salmon fillets into the vegetable mixture, skin-side up. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the skillet with a lid or foil. Reduce the heat to low and braise the salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the flesh flakes easily with a fork.

Finish and Serve:

• Remove the skillet from the heat and let the salmon rest for a few minutes. Transfer the fillets to a serving plate. Spoon the braising liquid and vegetables over the salmon. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and, if desired, toasted pine nuts.
• Serve the Mediterranean Braised Salmon immediately, enjoying the tender, flavorful fish with the aromatic and savory Mediterranean sauce.