Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
  • 3 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 3 bay leaves, crumbled
  • 1 teaspoon whole cloves
  • 2 tablespoons minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon whole juniper berries, plus 1/3 cup crushed juniper berries
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup kosher salt
  • 1 side of fresh salmon, skin off (about 4 pounds)
  • 1/4 cup coarsely ground black pepper
  • 6 slices of large rye bread, cut diagonally
  • 1/2 cup Remoulade Sauce, recipe follows
  • 12 slices of Swiss cheese
  • 2 cups of sauerkraut
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 3/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup chopped onions
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/4 cup chopped celery
  • 2 tablespoons chopped garlic
  • 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
  • 3 tablespoons Creole or whole-grain mustard
  • 3 tablespoons prepared yellow mustard
  • 3 tablespoons ketchup
  • 3 tablespoons chopped parsley
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
  • 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Method

  • In a small mixing bowl, combine the peppercorns, thyme, bay leaves, cloves, garlic, and whole junipers berries.
  • In a saucepan, over medium heat, combine the water, brown sugar and salt.
  • Bring to a boil and stir to dissolve the sugar and salt.
  • Remove from the heat and add dry spice mixture and steep for 1 hour.
  • Place the salmon in a glass or plastic container.
  • Pour the seasoned brine to cover the salmon completely.
  • Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours, turning the salmon a couple of times.
  • Remove the salmon from the brine and rinse thoroughly with cool water.
  • Pat dry with a towel.
  • Combine the crushed juniper berries and ground black pepper in a small bowl.
  • Using the palm and heel of your hands, press two thirds of the berry and pepper mixture into the salmon.
  • Press the remaining mixture onto the other side.
  • Wrap the salmon tightly with plastic wrap.
  • Store in the refrigerator for at least 48 hours before serving.
  • To serve, remove the salmon and slice thin.
  • Smear the Remoulade on one side of the bread.
  • Spoon the sauerkraut on top of the Remoulade and spread evenly.
  • Lay the slices of salmon on top of the sauerkraut.
  • Lay the slices of cheese over the salmon.
  • Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake until the cheese melts, about 8 minutes.
  • Serve warm.
  • Put all the ingredients in a food processor and process for 30 seconds.
  • Use immediately or store.
  • Will keep for several days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.