Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 teaspoon minced ginger; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Sesame seeds, for garnish; Chopped green onions, for garnish

Highlighted under: International Plate Collection

I recently immersed myself in the delicious world of Japanese cuisine, and this teriyaki salmon recipe quickly became a favorite. The combination of sweet and savory flavors from the homemade teriyaki sauce is simply irresistible. I love how it enhances the natural richness of the salmon, making it an elegant yet easy dish to prepare. Whether I’m entertaining guests or just indulging a culinary craving during the week, this recipe captures authentic flavors that transport me straight to Japan in just 30 minutes.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-01-27T01:04:47.990Z

I’ve always been a fan of salmon, but discovering the joy of teriyaki transformed my cooking. While experimenting with different sauces, I found that creating my own teriyaki sauce was not only healthier but also incredibly easy. Using fresh ingredients like soy sauce, mirin, and ginger, I crafted a balance that really complemented the salmon's natural flavor.

This dish doesn’t just taste amazing; it also fills the kitchen with enticing aromas. One tip: marinate the salmon for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply, making each bite a delightful experience.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich umami flavor from the homemade teriyaki sauce
Quick preparation for a weeknight dinner or special occasion
Healthy and nutritious with tender, flaky fish

Mastering the Teriyaki Sauce

The teriyaki sauce is where the magic happens in this dish. Using high-quality soy sauce and mirin will elevate the flavor significantly. Mirin, a sweet rice wine, balances the saltiness of the soy sauce, creating a complex umami profile. When adding the brown sugar, ensure it's fully dissolved to avoid graininess in the sauce. You want it to be glossy and slightly thickened after five minutes of cooking—this indicates it's ready to generously coat the salmon.

I recommend tasting your sauce as it cooks. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add more brown sugar; for a more savory profile, a dash of additional soy sauce does wonders. Remember to keep an eye on the sauce as it can thicken too much if overcooked. The perfect consistency is syrupy but not overly viscous, enabling it to cling to the salmon without becoming clumpy.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Salmon

To achieve that delightful crispy skin on your salmon, it's essential to pat the fillets dry thoroughly before seasoning. This step removes excess moisture that can prevent browning. Opt for a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and allow the oil to shimmer before adding the fish. This ensures even browning and texture. If your skin sticks to the pan, it may need a few more moments to cook before releasing naturally.

When flipping your salmon, use a spatula, and conduct the flip gently to maintain the integrity of the fillets. Cook them skin-side down for about 4-5 minutes until the edges start to turn golden brown, and the flesh is opaque halfway up the sides. After glazing with teriyaki sauce, keep an eye on the salmon to prevent overcooking; it's done when it flakes easily with a fork but retains a moist texture.

Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Sauce

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

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Chopped green onions, for garnish

Preparation

Cooking Instructions

Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the sauce slightly thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the salmon, skin side down, and cook for about 4-5 minutes until crispy.

Glaze the Salmon

Flip the salmon fillets and pour the teriyaki sauce over them. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, basting the fish with the sauce until it’s cooked through and caramelized.

Serve

Remove the salmon from the skillet and transfer to plates. Drizzle any remaining teriyaki sauce from the pan and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

Use fresh ingredients for the teriyaki sauce to enhance its flavors. Marinating the fish before cooking will deepen the taste even further. Don't skip the garnishes as they add a delightful crunch and burst of color.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover teriyaki salmon, make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to maintain its freshness. The salmon can be kept for up to three days. However, keep in mind that the texture will change slightly as the fish continues to marinate in the sauce, which can deepen the flavor but might make it a bit soggier.

Reheating is best done gently to avoid drying out the salmon. I recommend using a microwave with a moisture barrier (like a damp paper towel) or reheating it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to create steam. Aim for warming it just enough until it's heated through—about 2-3 minutes should suffice depending on the portion size.

Serving Suggestions

This teriyaki salmon pairs beautifully with steamed rice or quinoa, which is perfect for soaking up the extra teriyaki sauce. For a fresh contrast, serve it alongside sautéed bok choy or a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. These sides not only complement the smoky and sweet flavor of the salmon but also add a vibrant crunch to your meal.

Consider adding a sprinkle of furikake, a Japanese rice seasoning, on top of your finished dish for an extra layer of flavor. It's typically made from seaweed, sesame seeds, and dried fish flakes, and it adds an umami kick that enhances the dish further. Don’t shy away from experimenting with garnishes as well; a dollop of wasabi or a slice of lime can provide a delightful contrast to the teriyaki's sweetness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with any firm white fish like cod or halibut.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The teriyaki salmon keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make teriyaki sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with teriyaki salmon?

It pairs beautifully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a light salad.