Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Sesame seeds, for garnish; Chopped green onions, for garnish

Highlighted under: Worldwide Favorites

I absolutely love making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon as it brings a delicious balance of savory and sweet flavors to my table. The sauce, made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, caramelizes beautifully when cooking, infusing the salmon with fantastic taste. Preparing this dish takes just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. I often serve it over rice or with steamed vegetables, and I'm always delighted by how quickly it disappears!

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:03:35.142Z

When I first experimented with teriyaki sauce, I was amazed by how simple yet flavorful the combination could be. The mix of soy sauce, sugar, and mirin creates a rich glaze that not only coats the salmon beautifully but also caramelizes perfectly during cooking. I found that letting the salmon marinate for even just 10 minutes amplifies the flavors significantly, so I always recommend this small step.

Over the years, I've learned that serving this dish with a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas enhances the meal's overall appeal. The vibrant colors and fresh crunch provide a lovely contrast to the tender, juicy fish. I prefer to garnish it with sesame seeds and green onions for that final touch of flavor and presentation!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously sticky teriyaki glaze that enhances salmon's natural flavor
Quick to prepare, making it an excellent weeknight choice
Pairs wonderfully with rice and vegetables for a balanced meal

      

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

The teriyaki sauce in this recipe is a harmonious blend of savory and sweet elements. Soy sauce provides depth and umami, while mirin, a sweet rice wine, balances the saltiness. The inclusion of sugar enhances the caramelization when the salmon cooks, creating that luscious, sticky glaze that is both visually appealing and packed with flavor. Cooking the sauce until it thickens not only concentrates the taste but also adds a beautiful sheen to the dish.

Ginger and garlic play crucial roles in flavoring the sauce, bringing in aromatic notes that elevate the overall experience of the dish. Freshly grated ginger offers a vibrant zing without overpowering the salmon, while minced garlic adds a subtle warmth. Feel free to experiment with these ingredients: using garlic powder can impart a milder flavor, and adjusting the amount of ginger allows for a more personalized taste.

Perfecting Salmon Cooking Techniques

When cooking salmon, it’s essential to monitor the heat to ensure even cooking without drying it out. A medium heat setting is often ideal; it allows the fillets to cook through while browning the exterior. Look for the salmon to change from translucent to opaque, and check that it flakes easily with a fork. If your skillet is too hot, the exterior may burn before the center cooks properly, leading to an uneven texture.

To add a lovely depth of flavor, consider searing the skin-side of the salmon first. This step can help create a delightful crispness, enhancing both the texture and presentation of your dish. Just be cautious with the cooking time; sear for about 3-4 minutes before flipping, then finish with another 4-5 minutes on the flesh side. This technique ensures that the salmon remains moist and flavorful.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients below to get started on this flavorful dish!

Ingredients for Teriyaki Salmon

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

Make sure everything is prepped before you start cooking for best results!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare a delicious teriyaki salmon:

Marinate the Salmon

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Prepare the Cooking Surface

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the marinated salmon fillets, reserving the marinade for later.

Cook the Salmon

Cook the salmon for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and let it boil for a couple of minutes until it thickens into a glaze.

Serve

Remove the salmon from the skillet and plate it. Drizzle the thickened glaze over the top and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Enjoy with rice or vegetables!

Enjoy your delicious homemade teriyaki salmon!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try incorporating sesame oil into the marinade or serve with a side of pickled ginger.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Japanese Teriyaki Salmon over a bed of fluffy jasmine or sticky rice is a great way to complement its flavors. The rice absorbs the teriyaki glaze, making each bite harmoniously savory. Alternatively, pairing it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or bok choy adds color and nutrients, creating a well-rounded meal that's both delicious and appealing.

For a little extra crunch and flavor, consider adding a side of pickled vegetables, commonly seen in Japanese cuisine. Quick pickles made from cucumbers or radishes can counterbalance the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce, enriching your meal experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors of the teriyaki sauce will continue to meld into the salmon, providing a delicious meal for the next day. To reheat, simply warm gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent drying out, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary.

For longer storage, consider freezing the marinated salmon before cooking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will stay fresh for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking; this helps maintain the salmon's texture and flavor while ensuring a perfectly flaky result when cooked.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can use other fish like trout or tilapia, but adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.

→ Is it necessary to marinate the salmon?

While not mandatory, marinating enhances the flavor significantly, so it’s recommended for the best taste.

→ What sides go well with teriyaki salmon?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad are excellent choices to complement the dish.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can marinate the salmon ahead of time and store it in the fridge, but it's best cooked fresh for optimal texture.