Grilled Salmon with Lemon Hollandaise Sauce

The lemon hollandaise sauce brings a wonderful citrus flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled salmon. This dish is excellent served with steamed fresh peas, grilled corn, or a mix of hot rice (including some wild rice) to savor every drop of the sauce.

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Serves: 6 people

Ingredients:

• 4-inch piece of lemongrass (white part only)
• 3 makrut lime leaves (plus extra for garnish)
• 3 lemons
• 1 cup (250 ml) salted butter
• 3 egg yolks
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) milk
• A pinch of chili pepper
• 6 salmon fillets (skin removed, each weighing about 6 to 7 ounces or 175 to 200 grams)
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) melted butter (for grilling the salmon)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the lemon and lemongrass:

   • Slice the lemongrass and lime leaves thinly across the width. Grate one lemon and set the zest aside. Juice ⅓ cup (75 ml) of the lemons.

2. Make the citrus infusion:

   • In a heatproof glass measuring cup (2-cup/500 ml), combine the lemongrass, lime leaves, and lemon juice.
   • Microwave the mixture uncovered on high for 1 minute. Use a flat spoon to press the solids down into the liquid. Continue microwaving, checking every 30 seconds, until the liquid reduces by half (about 1 to 2 more minutes).
   • Strain the mixture, pressing out the solids, and set the liquid aside.

3. Prepare the hollandaise sauce:

   • Heat the butter until very hot but not boiling. (You can do this in a small pan over low heat or microwave in a measuring cup for about 1 minute.)
   • In a blender, combine the egg yolks and milk, and briefly blend. Then, while blending on high speed, gradually add half of the hot butter in a steady stream. The mixture should become creamy and milk-like.

4. Grill the salmon:

   • Preheat the grill to medium heat.
   • If there's any brown fat on the salmon, carefully remove it with a very sharp knife. Brush the top of the salmon fillets with melted butter.
   • Place the buttered side down on the grill and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, or until grill marks appear.
   • Flip the salmon fillets and continue grilling for another 4 to 5 minutes, until fully cooked.

5. Serve:

   • Place the grilled salmon on warm serving plates, drizzle with the lemon hollandaise sauce, and sprinkle with lemon zest. Garnish with additional lime leaves for decoration.

Enjoy your delicious grilled salmon with tangy, creamy lemon hollandaise!