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; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Sliced green onions; Sesame seeds

Highlighted under: Global Food Inspirations

I absolutely love making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home, not only for its rich flavors but also for how effortlessly it comes together. The sweet and savory teriyaki glaze perfectly complements the succulent salmon, creating a dish that's sure to impress. I always make sure to marinate the salmon for at least 30 minutes, as it really allows the flavors to penetrate the fish. Paired with steamed rice and fresh vegetables, it’s a complete meal that feels like a treat any night of the week.

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-26T22:27:34.689Z

When I first tried my hand at making Teriyaki Salmon, I was amazed at how simply a few ingredients could transform fresh salmon. I love using homemade teriyaki sauce, as it brings out the best in the fish. I make a batch that I can adjust with additional ginger or garlic for added depth. Each time I prepare it, I experiment a little more with the marinade, and it always turns out delightful!

One specific tip I’ll share is to keep an eye on the cooking time. Salmon cooks quickly, so I pull it from the heat just before it's fully cooked—remember, it continues to cook even after being removed from the stove. This ensures a flaky, moist fillet every time!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Deliciously sweet and savory teriyaki sauce that enhances the salmon's natural flavors
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests
Healthy and nutritious, packed with omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

The teriyaki sauce in this recipe is a complex blend of sweet and salty flavors, mainly stemming from the harmonious mix of soy sauce and brown sugar. The soy sauce not only provides umami but also acts as a savory backbone that enhances the natural richness of the salmon. The brown sugar brings an essential sweetness that balances the saltiness, particularly after it thickens during cooking, creating that characteristic glossy glaze. This balance is crucial for achieving the authentic taste that defines teriyaki sauce.

Using mirin in the sauce adds an additional depth of flavor. Mirin, a sweet rice wine, has a lower alcohol content than traditional sake, making it ideal for marinades and sauces. If you don't have mirin on hand, you can substitute it with a mixture of white wine and sugar in equal parts, or even a splash of honey or agave syrup diluted with water. Keeping the sweetness level balanced is paramount to the sauce’s overall flavor profile.

Perfecting Salmon Cooking Techniques

When cooking your salmon, achieving that perfect texture is key. Start by ensuring your skillet is adequately heated before adding the salmon; a medium-high heat will ensure a nicely seared exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. Aim for a cook time of about 4-5 minutes on the skin side first. Look for the sides of the salmon to change color and for the edges to start looking opaque before flipping, this indicates that the salmon is cooking evenly.

Be gentle when flipping the salmon to avoid breaking the fillet apart; a thin, flexible spatula works wonders here. If you notice your salmon sticking to the pan when you attempt to flip it, it likely needs more time. The skin should release easily when properly cooked. After flipping, continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes until just opaque in the center, checking for doneness with a fork or knife.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the most flavorful Teriyaki Salmon!

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Teriyaki Sauce

1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon sesame oil

For Garnish

Sliced green onions
Sesame seeds

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a perfect Teriyaki Salmon!

Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and let it cool.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour half of the teriyaki sauce over them. Make sure each fillet is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate.

Cook the Salmon

Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade and season with salt and pepper. Place the fillets skin-side down in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes. Flip gently and cook for another 3-4 minutes until just cooked through.

Serve

Drizzle the remaining teriyaki sauce over the cooked salmon. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately with rice and vegetables.

Enjoy your flavorful and easy-to-make Teriyaki Salmon!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a bit of sriracha to your teriyaki sauce. Also, try grilling the salmon for a smoky flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This teriyaki salmon can easily be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep. You can marinate the salmon fillets the night before and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply remove them from the marinade and proceed with the cooking steps as outlined. The flavor infusion during the extended marination will contribute to an even richer taste.

If you have leftovers, store the cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a little water or leftover teriyaki sauce to keep the moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it can lead to dry and rubbery fish.

Serving Suggestions

For a well-rounded meal, pair your teriyaki salmon with steamed white or brown rice, allowing the salty-sweet sauce to soak in and enhance the carbs. Additionally, roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or colorful bell peppers contribute both nutrition and vibrant color to the plate. This not only elevates the presentation but also adds fiber and vitamins to your meal, making it both delicious and healthful.

Feel free to get creative with your serving by offering a side of pickled vegetables or edamame for extra crunch and flavor. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced scallions adds an appealing finish, delivering both texture and a pop of color that is visually enticing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with tuna, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How long can I marinate the salmon?

You can marinate the salmon for up to 2 hours, but avoid longer times to prevent the fish from becoming too salty.

→ What should I serve with Teriyaki Salmon?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The teriyaki sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.