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; 2 tablespoons mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish); Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Highlighted under: International Food Journey

I absolutely love making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home; it's a dish that combines my passion for cooking with my affection for bold flavors. Every time I prepare this dish, the sweet and savory aroma fills my kitchen, drawing my family closer to the dinner table. The best part? It takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, allowing us to enjoy a delicious meal without much fuss. This vibrant dish showcases succulent salmon fillets glazed with a rich teriyaki sauce, making it my go-to recipe for any occasion.

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:55:35.288Z

One evening, after a long day, I decided to whip up something special and satisfying for dinner. I had some fresh salmon in the fridge and thought about how delicious a teriyaki glaze would be. The combination of soy sauce, mirin, and a touch of brown sugar creates that perfect balance of sweet and salty that pairs beautifully with the rich flavor of the fish. I was thrilled with how quickly and deliciously it turned out!

To make the glaze stick, I suggest marinating the salmon for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish, ensuring each bite is packed with an umami punch. I also like to serve it over jasmine rice, which absorbs the sauce perfectly, creating a delightful meal!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A delightful sweet and savory glaze that complements the salmon perfectly.
Quick and easy preparation, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Versatile—great served with rice, noodles, or alongside fresh veggies.

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

Teriyaki sauce is the star of this dish, providing a rich balance of sweetness and saltiness that enhances the natural flavors of the salmon. The combination of soy sauce, mirin, and brown sugar creates a glossy glaze that not only tastes amazing but also adds a beautiful visual appeal to the dish. Mirin, a sweet rice wine, is crucial as it balances the saltiness of soy sauce while adding depth to the flavor profile. If you can't find mirin, white wine or apple cider vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar can serve as an acceptable substitute.

The process of glazing the salmon at the end enriches the dish, allowing the flavors to caramelize and intensify. Make sure to let the marinade reduce until it's thickened, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes over medium heat. You'll know it's ready when it clings to the salmon, giving each bite a burst of flavor. If the sauce isn't thickening, increase your heat slightly and keep stirring to avoid burning.

Choosing the Right Salmon

When selecting salmon, opt for fillets that are firm and moist with a deep, rich color. Fresh salmon should have a clean, ocean-like scent. If you're examining frozen fillets, look for those that are vacuum sealed to ensure freshness. Sockeye and Atlantic salmon are great options for teriyaki, known for their rich flavor and buttery texture, but feel free to substitute with other varieties, like coho or even trout for a different take.

Cooking salmon perfectly is vital to achieving the desired texture. You want the salmon to be flaky yet tender, so consider using a non-stick skillet to avoid sticking and tearing. A good visual guide is to remove the salmon from heat just as it turns opaque and starts to flake with a fork, usually around 8-9 minutes total cooking time. If you prefer a less-done center, aim for the 6-7 minute mark.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing teriyaki salmon with sides can elevate your meal. Serve it over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or sticky sushi rice to soak up the rich sauce, or opt for soba noodles tossed in sesame oil and a sprinkle of scallions for a unique twist. Steamed broccoli or sautéed bok choy add a nutritious, vibrant contrast that balances the dish's richness.

For added flavor, consider throwing some grilled pineapple or glazed asparagus on the grill while you cook the salmon. The sweetness of the fruit and the slight char from grilling complement the teriyaki flavors beautifully. You can also sprinkle some pickled ginger or fresh cilantro over the top for an aromatic finishing touch that brightens the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create an unforgettable dining experience.

Ingredients for Teriyaki Salmon

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

Once you have everything ready, you're just minutes away from a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Teriyaki Salmon.

Marinate the Salmon

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated salmon, skin-side down, and sear for about 4-5 minutes until crispy. Carefully flip the salmon and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.

Glaze and Serve

Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet and let it reduce for a few minutes until it thickens. Once done, remove from heat, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.

Enjoy your flavorful and satisfying Teriyaki Salmon!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a splash of sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade. This will elevate the flavors and add a bit of heat to your dish.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to streamline your dinner prep, consider marinating the salmon in advance. You can prepare the marinade a day ahead, and the salmon can soak it overnight in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. Just make sure to remove it from the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.

You can also prepare extra teriyaki sauce and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat it gently before serving, so it glazes beautifully when added to the cooked fish.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover teriyaki salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave in 30-second intervals to prevent drying out. You could also reheat it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to keep it moist and ensure it warms evenly.

Freezing is also an option, though cooked salmon should ideally be consumed within 2 months for best quality. To freeze, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or use a vacuum sealer for optimal freshness. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as described.

Variations of Teriyaki Salmon

For a unique spin on the classic teriyaki flavor, try adding ingredients such as orange juice or honey to your marinade. These additions provide a citrusy brightness or additional sweetness that can really enhance the overall flavor of the dish. You can also experiment with spice by incorporating a touch of chili paste or grated wasabi for a kick.

Additionally, if you're looking to reduce carbs or calories, consider serving the salmon with a salad of mixed greens and a light dressing instead of rice or noodles. This variation keeps the dish light and refreshing while still allowing you to enjoy the delightful teriyaki flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish?

Absolutely! While salmon is delicious, you can also use cod, trout, or even chicken.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on a skillet.

→ Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you're ready to use it.

→ What sides pair well with teriyaki salmon?

Steamed vegetables, fried rice, or a fresh Asian salad all make excellent side dishes.