Lion salmon also known as Chinook salmon or King salmon is one of the most prized and sought-after types of salmon. With its impressive size, vibrant coloration, rich flavor and delicate texture, it’s easy to see why this fish is referred to as the “king” of salmon. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at lion salmon including its origins, physical characteristics, flavor profile, health benefits, and tips for catching and cooking this incredible fish.
Overview of Lion Salmon
- Also called Chinook or King salmon
- Largest species of salmon
- Native to Pacific Northwest region of North America
- Named after Chinookan peoples who have fished it for centuries
- Highly prized for its size, strength, appearance and superior eating quality
Physical Characteristics
- Can reach up to 5 feet long and weigh over 100 lbs
- Largest salmon species
- Muscular, torpedo-shaped body
- Color ranges from silver blue to greenish-blue
- Spots on back and both lobes of tail
- Small black spots on gill covers
Flavor and Texture
- Rich, buttery flavor with herbal and nutty notes
- High oil content gives it a velvety, melt-in-your-mouth texture
- Medium high fat content around 10-18%
- White streaks of fat marbled throughout the orange-red flesh
Habitat and Range
- Native to Pacific coasts, rivers and tributaries
- Found from Monterey Bay, California up to Alaska
- Migrates hundreds of miles upriver to spawn
- Some major rivers where it can be found: Sacramento, Columbia, Fraser
Catching Lion Salmon
- Caught wild in Pacific Ocean & rivers using trolling, drift fishing and fly fishing
- Requires skill to hook these strong swimmers
- Put up a powerful fight when reeled in
- Farmed Chinook salmon also available, but wild is preferable
Buying Lion Salmon
- Look for bright, shiny skin with no dull or brown spots
- Flesh should be deep orange-red
- Check smell – should not be fishy or have ammonia scent
- Pay attention to labels – “Chinook salmon” means it’s lion/king salmon
Cooking and Serving Lion Salmon
- Grilling, broiling, baking and poaching are best cooking methods
- Grill or broil skin-on, baste with oil or glaze
- Poach gently in broth, wine or court bouillon
- Bake in foil with herbs, citrus, butter or mayo
- Serve with rice, roasted veggies, greens, fresh herbs
Nutrition and Health Benefits
- Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids
- High in protein, B vitamins, selenium
- Contains astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant
- Omega-3s reduce inflammation and heart disease risk
- B vitamins important for energy and brain function
- Selenium boosts immunity and thyroid health
Availability and Sustainability
- Available wild caught during summer months
- Farm-raised Chinook salmon available year-round
- Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch rates it a “Best Choice”
- Look for MSC certified sustainably caught salmon
- Avoid salmon labeled “Atlantic” – likely farmed
How to Identify Lion Salmon
- Large size – can be up to 5 feet long!
- Blue-green backs with small black spots
- Silvery sides transitioning to white belly
- Spots on both lobes of the tail
- Deep red-orange flesh when raw
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FAQ
What are salmon loins?
What is the best tasting salmon to eat?
What is the healthiest salmon to eat?
What is the most expensive salmon in the world?
What is wild salmon?
Wild salmon is salmon that is caught in natural environments like oceans, rivers, and lakes. But much of the salmon sold worldwide today is farmed salmon. Fish farms use a process called aquaculture to breed fish, which are often given a processed feed that’s high in fat and protein to produce larger fish.
Is salmon good for kidney disease?
Salmon is rich in omega-3 and is considered a good food not only for kidney disease but also for preventing other problems and maintaining health. A diet with roasted or raw salmon can slow the development of hypertension and protect against kidney damage.
Where can I buy salmon?
It’s pretty much everywhere—widely available whether you’re tracking it down at the supermarket or the fishmonger. It’s easy to like—tender, mild-tasting, and versatile. It’s even easy to cook—the fatty texture helps keep the fish tender and moist. But even though salmon is the friendliest fish around, buying it can still be intimidating.
What are the health benefits of eating salmon?
Astaxanthin is an antioxidant found in salmon that may benefit heart, brain, nervous system, and skin health. 7. May reduce the risk of heart disease Eating salmon on a regular basis may help protect against heart disease ( 37 ).