Brown Sugar Dijon Arctic Char
If you’re looking for a delicious and effortless meal, this Brown Sugar Dijon Arctic Char recipe fits the bill perfectly. The combination of sweet brown sugar and tangy Dijon mustard creates a flavorful glaze that pairs beautifully with the rich, buttery texture of Arctic char. This recipe is a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner, coming together in under 20 minutes with minimal ingredients.
Arctic char is often compared to salmon but is milder and more delicate. The glaze adds just the right balance of sweetness and tartness, making it a crowd-pleaser. Throughout this post, we’ll cover everything you need to make this dish with confidence, including tips, storage advice, and variations to suit your diet.
Why You’ll Love It
This Brown Sugar Dijon Arctic Char is quick, simple, and packed with flavor. It requires just a handful of pantry ingredients yet tastes elegant. Perfect for busy evenings when you want a healthy protein that feels special. Arctic char’s natural fattiness pairs perfectly with the glaze, ensuring moist and flavorful results every time.
The glaze is versatile enough to work with other fish, too. And since this dish bakes in the oven, cleanup is a breeze. Plus, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar alternatives are easy to swap in if needed.
Ingredients
- 4 Arctic char fillets (6 oz each) – you can substitute with salmon or trout
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard – whole grain Dijon works well too
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar – light or dark brown sugar is fine; maple syrup as substitute
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – any neutral oil like avocado oil will work
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and olive oil until smooth and combined.
- Place the Arctic char fillets skin-side down on the baking sheet. Season each fillet with salt and pepper.
- Brush the Dijon and brown sugar glaze generously across the top of each fillet.
- Bake in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.
- Remove from oven and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side.
Expert Tips
Make sure not to overcook the fish; Arctic char cooks quickly and should remain moist. If your fillets are particularly thick, add a couple of minutes to the cooking time. For a sharper glaze, use whole grain Dijon and adjust the sugar to taste.
To scale the recipe, just increase the ingredients proportionally. You can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. For crispier skin, try searing the fillets skin-side down for 2 minutes on the stovetop before baking.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to avoid drying out the fish. Arctic char can also be frozen cooked; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations
To make this recipe vegan, try marinated and baked king oyster mushroom steaks with the same glaze. For a refined sugar-free option, substitute the brown sugar with coconut sugar or pure maple syrup. You can also incorporate herbs such as thyme or rosemary into the glaze for added flavor.
If you’re gluten-sensitive, be sure to use a gluten-free Dijon mustard. Dairy-free is naturally covered in this recipe as there are no dairy ingredients involved.
FAQ
Can I substitute salmon for Arctic char in this Brown Sugar Dijon Arctic Char recipe?
Yes, salmon is a great substitute and will work beautifully with the glaze.
How do I know when Arctic char is cooked?
The fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout when done; it usually takes 8-10 minutes at 400°F.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can make the glaze ahead and refrigerate it but best to bake the fish just before serving for optimal freshness.
Is this recipe healthy?
Absolutely! Arctic char is high in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, and this recipe uses minimal added fat and sugar.
Call to Action
Have you tried this Brown Sugar Dijon Arctic Char recipe? Let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and save it for your next easy dinner night. Share with friends who love vibrant seafood dishes, and explore more recipes like Easy Weeknight Dinners or check tips on cooking fish at Food Network.
