When Salmon Meets Smoke and Southern Flavor
This Braided Bourbon-Glazed Salmon from @cookingwithmrcooper is more than a recipe—it’s a grill master flex. From the eye-catching braid to the sweet-and-smoky bourbon BBQ glaze, every step of this dish brings flavor and flair. If you’re looking to level up your next cookout or impress guests with something unexpected, this dish delivers.
Salmon is a staple in many Black households—whether baked, pan-seared, or grilled—but braiding it and hitting it with a bourbon-laced sauce? Now that’s innovation with a smoky Southern twist. Whether you’re working with a charcoal grill or a pellet smoker, this dish turns salmon into a full-blown centerpiece.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Prep
- 1 large salmon fillet
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp salmon rub or all-purpose seafood seasoning
For the Bourbon BBQ Glaze
- ¼ cup bourbon
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- ½ tsp chipotle powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Salmon
- Remove the skin from the salmon fillet.
- Slice it lengthwise into three long strips, keeping them connected at one end.
2. Season and Oil
- Drizzle with olive oil and generously season the fillet with salmon rub.
3. Braid the Salmon
- Carefully braid the three salmon strips.
- Tuck the end under to secure the shape.
4. Grill and Smoke
- Place the braided salmon onto a preheated grill or smoker.
- Set to your desired temp.
5. Make the Glaze
- In a small pot, combine bourbon, brown sugar, BBQ sauce, and chipotle powder.
- Stir until smooth.
6. Baste While Smoking
- Brush the glaze over the salmon as it smokes.
- Repeating every few minutes.
7. Finish and Serve
- Smoke until the salmon is cooked through and flaky.
- Remove from the grill and serve hot.
Pro Tips & Suggestions
- Use skinless salmon for easier braiding and better flavor absorption.
- Don’t skip the bourbon—the alcohol cooks off but leaves deep flavor.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper to the glaze.
- Serve with grilled veggies or garlic mashed potatoes for a complete plate.
About the Creator
This recipe is by Mr. Cooper, the grill master and food content creator behind @cookingwithmrcooper. Known for bold BBQ, smoking techniques, and southern flavor, his dishes always come with a twist and a whole lot of love from the fire.
Mr. Cooper | @cookingwithmrcooper