Coho Salmon 101

COHO SALMON 101: AN INTRODUCTION TO COHO SALMON

At Acme Smoked Fish, each species we work with brings something unique to the table. We’ve got our beloved Atlantic salmon, which forms the foundation of many of our smoked salmon offerings. Our sustainably raised trout from Denmark and Norway is a delight to smoke and enjoy. And, of course, smoked whitefish remains a classic, offering a burst of savory goodness whether it’s part of a salad or atop a bagel. We even have another wild smoked salmon offering in the form of our wild sockeye smoked salmon. But when it comes to coho salmon, there’s a special appreciation that runs deep in our hearts, especially when it comes to crafting smoked salmon.

What is Coho Salmon?

Coho salmon, also known as "silver salmon," is a species indigenous to the Pacific Ocean. With a native range stretching from the northern coast of California up to Alaska in the eastern Pacific and from Japan to Northern Russia in the Western Pacific, coho salmon is truly a global traveler. Unlike some other salmon species, coho salmon are known for their adaptability, having been introduced to freshwater environments around the world.

During their ocean phase, coho salmon sport silver sides and dark-blue backs with distinct spots on their backs and upper tail lobes. As they prepare for spawning, these salmon undergo a dramatic transformation, developing bright-red sides, bluish-green heads, and hooked jaws. Adult coho salmon typically weigh between 8 to 12 pounds, although some can reach up to 36 pounds depending on their age and location.

Sustainable Harvesting and Environmental Impact

Coho salmon caught in the pristine waters of southeastern Alaska are harvested by local fishermen using environmentally sustainable methods. This practice ensures that the fish are caught responsibly, minimizing the impact on the surrounding ecosystem. The result is a wild product that is not only superior in taste and texture but also aligns with sustainable fishing practices.

In the North Pacific, coho salmon play a significant role in the Alaskan troll fishery, although they are more commonly caught by net fisheries such as gillnet and seine fishing. Despite being an important species, coho salmon represent only a small percentage of the total salmon harvest in the region, with much larger yields coming from pink, chum, and sockeye salmon.

Why we Love Coho Salmon at Acme

We’re particularly proud of the coho salmon we source for its vibrant color, firm texture, and distinct flavor, which all contribute to an exceptional smoked salmon product. All the coho salmon we use for smoked salmon is carefully wild caught. This harvesting process ensures that the coho salmon we bring to our smokehouses is of the highest quality and flavor.

In our time-honored tradition of over 100 years, we trim the finest wild coho salmon by hand, season the fillets with just the right amount of salt, and then lightly smoke them in single batches over a blend of North American hardwoods. We take great care to ensure that the temperature of our smokehouse never exceeds 90°F. This meticulous process preserves the natural, succulent texture of the coho salmon while enhancing its complex and delicate flavor. The result is a bite that is subtle, savory, and utterly indulgent.

Culinary Uses and Pairings

Coho smoked salmon is incredibly versatile, lending itself to a wide range of culinary applications. It can be enjoyed in simple preparations, such as on a bagel with cream cheese and capers, or in more elaborate dishes like smoked salmon quiche or pasta. The flavor of coho smoked salmon pairs well with a variety of ingredients, including:

• Fresh Herbs: Dill, chives, and parsley complement the smoky, rich taste of the smoked salmon without overpowering it.
• Citrus: A squeeze of lemon or a dash of orange zest can brighten the flavors of coho smoked salmon, adding a refreshing contrast to its richness.
• Creamy Textures: Cream cheese, crème fraîche, or avocado add a luscious, creamy element that pairs well with the firm texture of the smoked salmon.
• Salty and Savory Additions: Capers, olives, or a sprinkle of sea salt can enhance the natural flavors of the smoked salmon, adding depth to each bite.

Beyond traditional pairings, coho smoked salmon can also be used in more creative ways. For instance, it can be incorporated into sushi rolls, used as a topping for gourmet pizzas, or even blended into spreads and pâtés. The possibilities are endless, limited only by your culinary imagination.

Health Benefits of Coho Salmon

In addition to its incredible flavor, coho smoked salmon is also a nutritious choice. Like all salmon, coho salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart-healthy benefits. These essential fats help reduce inflammation, lower the risk of heart disease, and support brain health. Coho salmon is also a great source of high-quality protein, making it a satisfying and nutritious option for any meal.

However, it’s worth noting that smoked salmon can be high in sodium due to the curing process, so it should be enjoyed in moderation, particularly by those watching their salt intake.

Coho Smoked Salmon Products at Acme

Coho salmon is excellent for smoking, despite its leaner texture compared to Atlantic salmon, due to its subtle yet distinct flavor profile. Whether smoked whole or as fillets, coho salmon delivers a luxurious taste experience that is perfect for any occasion. We’re particularly fond of our coho smoked salmon products, which you can find under our Blue Hill Bay brand.

Here are some of our favorite coho smoked salmon products:

• Blue Hill Bay 3 oz. Wild Coho Smoked Salmon
• Blue Hill Bay 8 oz. Wild Smoked Salmon Spread

Coho Smoked Salmon is for Smoked Salmon Fans

If you’re a fan of smoked salmon, particularly coho smoked salmon, you can find these products in select retailers nationwide. Our Store Locator can help you find some of our coho smoked salmon products near you. And if you’re local to Brooklyn, New York City, or the Tri-State area, don’t miss our weekly Fish Friday retail experience, where you can pick up some of our coho smoked salmon in person.

Should you have any suggestions or requests for new coho salmon products, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line through our Contact Form or send us a direct message on any of our social media channels. After all, your feedback helps us continue to bring you the best smoked salmon experiences possible.

Coho Smoked Salmon, In Conclusion

Coho smoked salmon represents the perfect marriage of traditional preservation methods and the exceptional qualities of a prized fish species. Its rich flavor, firm texture, and vibrant color make it a standout choice for both cold and hot smoking, and its versatility in the kitchen ensures that it can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes.

Whether you’re savoring it on a bagel, adding it to a gourmet salad, or simply enjoying it on its own, coho smoked salmon offers a taste experience that is both luxurious and comforting, bringing the best of the ocean’s bounty to your table.