Salmon in Crazy Water

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a large, high-side sauté pan or skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic, fennel seeds, and red pepper flakes and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the tomatoes, onion, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt and sauté until the tomatoes break down to release their juices and the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 2

Add the water and wine and bring the liquid to a gentle simmer. Simmer, uncovered, until the liquid reduces by about one fourth, 5 to 10 minutes. Taste and season with additional salt, as needed.

Step 3

Season the salmon with salt and place it in the pan. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and simmer until the fish just begins to flake, 5 to 8 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the middle of the thickest fillet should read 120°F to 130°F for medium-rare or 135°F to 145°F if you prefer your salmon more well done.

Step 4

Transfer the salmon fillets to 4 shallow bowls and spoon the broth around them. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with bread, if desired.