The Best Cure

Gravlaks is a uniquely Scandinavian contribution to world cuisine, a way of preparing fish that is unlike anything else. While smoked salmon or dry-cured ham are variations on an almost universal theme, gravlaks is more difficult to categorize. The fish is not salty enough to be classified as salt-cured, nor is it cooked, but there is no mistaking it for raw fish dishes such as Japanese sushi or Mexican ceviche.

Today gravlaks is one of the most elegant and chic ways to serve up salmon. When someone puts a plate of thinly sliced gravlaks on the table, it is a sign of good taste, refinement, and appreciation of the guest. Yet, unlike many types of cured or smoked fish, it does not require much work or any special equipment to make it yourself.