Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 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 teaspoon grated ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Chopped green onions for garnish; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: International Comforts

I love preparing Japanese Teriyaki Salmon because it brings the vibrant umami flavors of Japan right to my kitchen. The combination of sweet and savory teriyaki sauce paired with perfectly cooked salmon creates a mouthwatering dish that always impresses. What I enjoy most about this recipe is how quickly it comes together, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or special occasions. The rich flavors mingle beautifully, and each bite is a delightful experience in flavor and texture that I can't wait to share with you!

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:51:37.300Z

While perfecting my Japanese Teriyaki Salmon, I experimented with different marinades and cooking methods. I found that searing the salmon first creates a delightful crust that locks in moisture, making it incredibly tender. Using a homemade teriyaki sauce, with soy sauce, mirin, and a hint of ginger, brings an authentic touch that elevates the whole dish.

Additionally, I discovered that letting the salmon marinate for even just 15 minutes before cooking enhances the flavor significantly. It's a small step that makes a big difference in delivering that restaurant-quality taste right at home!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A perfect blend of sweet and savory that tantalizes your taste buds
Quick preparation suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions
Nutrient-rich salmon packed with omega-3 fatty acids

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

The teriyaki sauce is the star of this dish, providing a balance of sweetness and umami. The combination of soy sauce and mirin creates a rich, flavorful base, while brown sugar adds a hint of caramelization when cooked. I recommend using low-sodium soy sauce if you're watching your salt intake, as it will help maintain the balance without overpowering the fish's natural flavor. This sauce can also be prepared in larger quantities and stored in the refrigerator, making it a great addition to various recipes.

In addition to soy sauce and mirin, consider adding a dash of sake for an authentic touch. Sake enhances the depth of flavor and contributes to the overall umami profile. If you're aiming for a thicker glaze, simmer your sauce a bit longer to reduce it further. This will provide a sticky texture that clings beautifully to the salmon, giving it an appealing gloss and rich color once cooked.

Perfecting Your Salmon

Start with fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture. Look for salmon with vibrant color and firm flesh, which indicates freshness. If you prefer, you can substitute salmon with other fish like trout or even chicken thighs for a twist, just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the protein is cooked through without drying out.

When cooking the salmon, keep the skin on—it not only helps to retain moisture but also adds flavor. Searing the salmon skin-side down first allows it to become wonderfully crisp, which contrasts nicely with the tender meat. If the skin sticks to the skillet, make sure your pan is well-oiled and preheated to medium-high heat before adding the fillets.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delectable dish:

Ingredients for Teriyaki Salmon

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

Make sure all components are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Teriyaki Salmon:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil until well combined.

Marinate the Salmon

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

Cook the Salmon

In a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, sear the salmon fillets, skin side down, for about 4-5 minutes. Flip the fillets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.

Glaze the Salmon

Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet, allowing it to simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly. Spoon this glaze over the cooked salmon.

Serve

Garnish the salmon with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, and serve immediately with rice or vegetables.

Enjoy your homemade Teriyaki Salmon right away!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of sake to the marinade or serving the salmon with steamed broccoli on the side for a well-rounded meal.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your teriyaki salmon with steamed rice or sautéed greens can elevate the meal. The rice soaks up the flavors of the teriyaki glaze beautifully, and the greens offer a fresh crunch that balances the dish's richness. For a complete meal, consider incorporating a light salad with sesame dressing or pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast.

If you want to keep things interesting, serve the salmon over a bed of soba noodles tossed with a bit of sesame oil, scallions, and shredded carrots. This offers additional texture and makes the meal feel more substantial while still complementing the flavors of the teriyaki sauce.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain the salmon's texture when reheating, place it on a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely with a damp paper towel. Heat in short 30-second increments until warmed through to prevent it from drying out.

For meal prep, you can marinate the salmon fillets ahead of time. Just be cautious not to exceed the 30-minute marinade time, as this could lead to overly salty fish. Preparing a larger batch of the teriyaki sauce ahead can also save time during busy weeknights, allowing you to whip this dish up in no time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking it.

→ What can I substitute for mirin?

You can use a mixture of rice vinegar and sugar as a substitute for mirin.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I use chicken instead of salmon?

Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe for boneless chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.