Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Exotic Delights

I recently dove into the world of teriyaki sauce, and I’m thrilled to share my take on Japanese Teriyaki Salmon. This dish, combining tender salmon fillets with a sweet and savory glaze, brings a delightful burst of flavor that transports me straight to Japan. I love how quick and easy it is to prepare—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a handful of ingredients, I was amazed at how something so simple could taste so gourmet. Let's get cooking!

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-01-26T21:25:34.536Z

When I first made this Teriyaki Salmon, I was surprised by how quickly everything came together. The key, I discovered, is allowing the salmon to marinate for at least 15 minutes to really let those flavors meld. I also experimented with different vegetables on the side, and I found that steamed broccoli complemented the dish perfectly!

This dish showcases the balance of flavors reflecting Japanese cuisine—sweet, savory, and umami. I recommend using fresh ingredients for the best results, as they elevate the overall taste. Now, I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe with friends!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich teriyaki glaze that perfectly coats tender salmon
Quick preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights
Versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides

      

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

Teriyaki sauce is the star of this dish, combining sweet and savory elements that enhance the natural flavors of salmon. The balance of soy sauce and mirin creates a rich saltiness while brown sugar adds a caramelized touch. This combination forms a glossy glaze that not only coats the salmon beautifully but also helps to lock in moisture, resulting in flaky and tender fish. It's essential to choose a good quality soy sauce, as it significantly impacts the dish's overall flavor.

Mirin, a sweet rice wine, is crucial for achieving authentic teriyaki flavor. If you don't have mirin on hand, a mixture of sake and sugar can be a suitable substitute. However, the sweetness of mirin is unique; hence, the dish might not have the same depth if altered. Additionally, the incorporation of garlic and ginger infuses aromatic layers that complement the salmon perfectly, adding a fresh, zesty kick that's essential for a well-rounded dish.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Cooking salmon can be tricky, but using a non-stick skillet at medium-high heat helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking. It's important to place the salmon skin-side down first; this allows the skin to become crispy while the flesh stays moist. Watch for the fish to change color gradually; once it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork, it's perfectly cooked. Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of your fillets—thicker pieces may take a few extra minutes, so keep an eye on them.

When glazing the salmon, returning the reserved marinade to the skillet is an excellent way to intensify the flavor. Simmer it gently to thicken; remember not to boil it too hard, as this can cause burning. Aim for a syrupy consistency that clings to the salmon's surface, enhancing each bite. For a final touch, I like to brush the glaze over the fish just before serving for a glossy finish that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to bring the flavors of Japan to your kitchen.

For the Teriyaki Salmon

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready to go before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly glazed and flavorful salmon.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until the sugar dissolves.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Remove salmon from the marinade, reserving the marinade, and place the fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.

Glaze the Salmon

While the salmon cooks, pour the reserved marinade into the skillet. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens, then brush it over the salmon before serving.

Serve

Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot with rice or your favorite vegetables.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Teriyaki Salmon!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of sake to the marinade. You can also replace salmon with chicken or tofu for different variations.

Serving Suggestions

For a beautifully balanced meal, serve your teriyaki salmon with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa. The grains will soak up the delicious glaze, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. You can also pair it with sautéed seasonal vegetables like bok choy or snap peas for a vibrant and nutritious side. If you're looking for a low-carb option, consider serving the salmon over a bed of spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice for a delightful alternative.

For a burst of freshness, add a simple cucumber salad on the side, dressed with rice vinegar and sesame seeds. It contrasts beautifully with the rich salmon and is quick to prepare. If you're entertaining, consider offering a selection of small side dishes, including edamame or pickled vegetables, to create a dynamic Japanese-inspired spread.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is straightforward—just place the salmon in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out. If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of new teriyaki sauce while reheating.

For longer storage, consider freezing the marinated salmon before cooking. Simply place the fillets in a freezer-safe bag with the marinade and freeze for up to three months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before following the cooking steps. This not only saves time but also allows the salmon to absorb more flavor during the thawing process.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed before marinating and cooking.

→ What can I substitute for mirin?

You can use rice vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar as a substitute.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.