Washington

Salmon Hash

The Pacific Northwest's abundant wild salmon meets crispy breakfast hash in this Evergreen State favorite. Flaky Pacific salmon, golden potatoes, fresh dill, and perfectly poached eggs create a breakfast that celebrates Washington's legendary seafood heritage. Best enjoyed with a view of Puget Sound.

Total 40min 🍴 Serves 4 PNW Classic 🦙 Wild Caught

Equipment Needed

🍳 Large Cast Iron Skillet
🍽 Saucepan (for poaching)
🥩 Spatula
🥤 Slotted Spoon

Instructions

1

Cook the salmon: Season the salmon fillet with salt and pepper. In a skillet, cook the salmon skin-side down over medium heat for about 4 minutes, then flip and cook another 3-4 minutes until just cooked through. Set aside to cool, then flake into large chunks, removing any skin and bones.

Tip: Use wild-caught Pacific salmon - Chinook (King), Sockeye, or Coho are all excellent choices from Washington waters. Farmed salmon won't have the same flavor.
2

Prep the potatoes: Dice the Yukon Gold potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes. Rinse under cold water and pat completely dry - dry potatoes crisp better.

3

Start the hash: Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the potatoes in an even layer. Let cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the bottom develops a golden crust.

4

Add aromatics: Flip the potatoes and add the diced onion. Continue cooking, flipping occasionally, until potatoes are golden and tender, about 10-12 minutes total. Add the garlic in the last minute.

5

Start poaching water: While hash cooks, bring a wide saucepan of water to a gentle simmer. Add the white vinegar. The water should have small bubbles but not be boiling rapidly.

6

Add salmon to hash: Gently fold the flaked salmon, fresh dill, green onions, and capers (if using) into the potato hash. Season with salt and pepper. Keep warm over low heat while you poach the eggs.

7

Poach the eggs: Create a gentle whirlpool in the simmering water. Crack each egg into a small cup, then slide into the water. Poach for 3-4 minutes for runny yolks. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

8

Serve Pacific Northwest style: Divide the salmon hash among plates. Top each portion with a poached egg. Garnish with extra fresh dill and serve with lemon wedges. A drizzle of hollandaise makes it extra special.

💡 Pro Tips & Variations

  • Washington salmon: The Pacific Northwest is famous for its wild salmon. Chinook (King) salmon is the richest, Sockeye has deep color and flavor, and Coho is more delicate.
  • Use leftover salmon: This hash is an excellent way to use leftover grilled or baked salmon from dinner the night before.
  • Hot smoked salmon option: For a smokier flavor, use hot-smoked salmon instead of fresh. It's already cooked, so just flake and fold in at the end.
  • The perfect poach: Fresh eggs poach better than older ones - the whites stay together. Add vinegar to help the whites set.
  • Seattle style: In Seattle, this might be served with a side of sourdough toast and a view of the Space Needle.
  • Dill is essential: Fresh dill and salmon are a classic Pacific Northwest pairing. Don't substitute dried - it's not the same.