Glossary

Tail Piece

A tail piece is the thinner, tapering end of a salmon fillet, and it cooks faster than the thick centre. That makes it easy to overcook, so check it early or fold the thin end underneath to even out the thickness. Tail pieces suit quick recipes and hot ovens, and they are a good use of a whole side if you shield the tail with a small piece of foil while the thick shoulder finishes. See also: Centre-Cut, Thickness, Tenting, and the guide Oven Temperature and Timing for Baked Salmon.