Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets, skin on; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish); Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Kitchen Creations

I adore making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home. It’s a dish that not only lets me explore my culinary skills but also allows me to create a meal bursting with bold flavors. The marriage of the sweet and savory teriyaki sauce with the rich flavor of salmon makes it an absolute favorite in my kitchen. I often serve it with steamed rice and fresh vegetables, turning a simple dinner into a restaurant-quality experience. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will be a regular in your meal rotation!

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-26T21:38:35.757Z

When I first made this teriyaki salmon, I was amazed at how easy it was to infuse such deep flavors in just a short amount of time. The combination of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar creates a perfect glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the pan. I learned that cooking the salmon skin-side down first ensures a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the tender fish beneath.

One tip I swear by is letting the salmon marinate for at least 30 minutes. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps the sauce adhere better to the fish. It’s a small step that makes a world of difference, transforming a simple piece of salmon into a dish that feels incredibly special.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A delightful sweet and savory glaze that elevates the salmon
Perfectly flaky salmon infused with rich flavors
Quick to prepare, making it a great weeknight dinner option

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

The teriyaki sauce in this recipe plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavor of the salmon. The balance between soy sauce's umami and the sweetness from brown sugar and mirin creates a rich glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking. This caramelization not only adds a rich color but also deepens the flavor profile, making every bite a delightful experience. Therefore, using high-quality soy sauce and mirin can significantly elevate the dish.

If you prefer a less sweet teriyaki sauce, consider adjusting the brown sugar to taste or swapping it for a smaller amount of honey or agave syrup. However, keep in mind that these alternatives can change the final texture of the glaze, as they may not caramelize in the same way. Experimenting with the proportions until you find your preferred balance can make a huge difference in the final dish.

Perfecting Salmon Cooking Techniques

Achieving perfectly cooked salmon requires careful attention to time and temperature. Start with a medium-high heat to get that lovely sear on the skin, which adds both flavor and texture. Cooking the salmon skin-side down for the first few minutes helps render the fat, making it crispy—don’t rush the flip! When the edges start to turn golden and the middle is still slightly translucent, it’s an indication that flipping is right.

Another helpful tip is to use a fish spatula for flipping the salmon. Its design allows for easier handling without breaking the fillet. If you prefer your salmon medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 125°F before removing it from the heat, while 145°F is recommended for fully cooked salmon. Letting it rest for a couple of minutes post-cooking allows the juices to redistribute, offering a more tender and flaky texture.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

When serving your teriyaki salmon, steaming some vegetables like broccoli or bok choy alongside rice provides a wonderful contrast to the rich flavors of the glossy glaze. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions not only adds a pop of color but enhances the dish with a light crunch. You might also consider pairing it with pickled ginger or a side of miso soup to create a more well-rounded meal.

If you have leftovers, store the salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It reheats well in the microwave but for best results, reheat it in a skillet over low heat to maintain its texture. Freezing is also an option, but be mindful that the glaze may become more watery upon thawing. To preserve quality, consider freezing the salmon without the marinade and adding fresh glaze upon reheating.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for an unforgettable teriyaki salmon dish:

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets, skin on
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Enjoy your flavorful teriyaki salmon!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your teriyaki salmon:

Make the Teriyaki Marinade

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

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade and place skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 6 minutes, then flip and cook for another 4–5 minutes or until the salmon is cooked to your liking.

Use the Remaining Marinade

While the salmon is cooking, pour the leftover marinade into a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.

Serve

Arrange the cooked salmon on plates, drizzle with the thickened marinade, and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Serve hot and enjoy your homemade teriyaki salmon!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try topping the salmon with sliced lemons or oranges while cooking. They add a refreshing citrus note that beautifully complements the teriyaki sauce.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of salmon fillets is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture in this recipe. Opt for skin-on fillets, as the skin protects the fish during cooking and crisps up nicely, providing a contrast to the tender flesh. If salmon is unavailable, you can also use other fatty fish such as trout or mackerel, which will similarly absorb the teriyaki flavors well.

Mirin, a sweet rice wine, is another star ingredient here, contributing to the overall sweetness and depth of the marinade. If you're cooking without alcohol, try a mixture of water with a bit of sugar or honey as a substitute to maintain the sweetness profile, but remember that this will alter the authentic taste slightly.

Experimenting with Flavors

Once you've mastered the basic teriyaki salmon, feel free to experiment with additional flavors. Adding a splash of rice vinegar can give a tangy brightness that balances the sweetness. Alternatively, mix in some chili flakes for a spicy twist or top with a tangy citrus garnish to bring freshness to the dish.

For variations, consider marinating the salmon with different herbs or spices. A splash of citrus juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro can transform the flavor profile into something unique. Just be cautious not to overpower the original teriyaki flavor, which is meant to shine through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different fish instead of salmon?

Yes, you can use trout or any firm white fish as a substitute for salmon.

→ How long can I marinate the salmon?

You can marinate the salmon for up to 2 hours for stronger flavor, but 30 minutes is ideal.

→ What should I serve with teriyaki salmon?

Steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad are excellent choices.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce as a substitute for traditional soy sauce.