How to Smoke Fish in an Oven

Materials Needed:

- Fish (fresh or thawed, cleaned and gutted)

- Salt

- Brown sugar

- Wood chips (such as hickory or maple)

- Aluminum foil

- Baking sheet

- Oven

Preparation:

1. Brine the Fish:

- In a large container or bowl, combine equal parts water and salt.

- Submerge the fish in the brine solution, ensuring it's completely covered.

- Refrigerate the fish in the brine for at least 3 hours or overnight. This helps to cure and preserve the fish.

2. Prepare the Wood Chips:

- Soak the wood chips in water for about 30 minutes. This will help them smolder and release smoke during the smoking process.

3. Preheat the Oven:

- Preheat your oven to 200-250°F (95-120°C).

Smoking Process:

1. Line the Baking Sheet:

- Cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil, creating a sealed pouch that will trap the smoke.

2. Add Wood Chips:

- Place the soaked wood chips on a small pan or metal tray.

- Position this tray at the bottom of the preheated oven.

3. Place the Fish:

- Remove the fish from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels.

- Place the fish on the aluminum foil-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece.

4. Add Brown Sugar:

- Sprinkle a light coating of brown sugar over the fish. This helps to caramelize the surface and add a sweet flavor.

5. Seal the Pouch:

- Fold the edges of the aluminum foil over the fish, creating a sealed pouch. This traps the smoke and helps it circulate around the fish.

6. Bake the Fish:

- Place the baking sheet in the oven and let the fish smoke for approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the size and thickness of the fish.

7. Monitor the Fish:

- Check the fish periodically to ensure it doesn't overcook. The fish is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and has a rich, smoky color.

8. Cooling:

- Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely before handling.

Serving:

- Once the fish has cooled, you can serve it immediately or store it in the refrigerator. Smoked fish pairs well with various side dishes, such as rice, vegetables, or salads.

Remember, the smoking time can vary depending on your oven's efficiency, the size of the fish, and your desired smokiness level. Adjust the smoking time accordingly. Enjoy your homemade smoked fish!