As a culinary expert with years of experience in the food industry, I've had the opportunity to explore a wide range of practices when it comes to food preparation, including the handling and cooking of salmon. The question of whether to wash salmon before cooking is a nuanced one, with different schools of thought and various factors to consider. Let's delve into the details.

Hygiene and Safety
First and foremost, the primary reason for washing any food item is to ensure hygiene and safety. Salmon, like any other raw meat, can carry bacteria on its surface. While cooking will ultimately kill most, if not all, of these bacteria, some people prefer to wash the fish to remove any surface contaminants that could potentially cross-contaminate other foods or kitchen surfaces.

Rinsing Process
When it comes to rinsing salmon, it's generally recommended to do so quickly under cold running water just before cooking. This is to avoid the spread of bacteria that can occur if the fish is left to sit in water, which can act as a medium for bacterial growth. After rinsing, it's crucial to pat the fish dry with a paper towel. This step is important because excess moisture can interfere with the cooking process, potentially leading to a less even cook or a less crispy skin if that's the desired outcome.

Freshness Considerations
The freshness of the salmon plays a significant role in this decision. Very fresh salmon fillets may not benefit from a rinse, as the natural oils and slime on the surface can actually enhance the flavor when cooked. However, salmon that has been aged a bit, or is not at peak freshness, can benefit from a quick rinse to remove any off smells or tastes that may have developed over time.

Pat Drying
Regardless of whether you choose to rinse or not, patting the salmon dry is a step that should not be skipped. This not only helps with the cooking process but also contributes to food safety by reducing the overall moisture on the fish, which could support bacterial growth.

Cooking Methods
The method of cooking can also influence this decision. For instance, if you're grilling or broiling the salmon, a quick rinse and thorough drying can help to achieve a better sear and crispier skin. On the other hand, if you're poaching or steaming the salmon, the need to rinse may be less critical, as the cooking method itself involves water.

Conclusion
In conclusion, whether to wash salmon before cooking is a decision that depends on several factors, including the freshness of the fish, personal preference, and the intended cooking method. While it's not a strict requirement to wash salmon, doing so can offer some benefits in terms of hygiene and potentially improving the final product, especially if the salmon is not extremely fresh. The key is to handle the fish gently and quickly during the rinsing process and to ensure it is thoroughly dried before cooking to maintain both safety and quality.

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Yes, or at least usually. I recommend quickly rinsing salmon fillets in cold running fresh water just before cooking. Then pat the fish dry with a paper towel. Very fresh salmon fillets do not benefit from a rinse, but salmon with a little, or a lot of age will benefit.read more >>