Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 clove garlic, minced; 4 salmon fillets; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Sesame seeds for garnish; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Worldly Creations

I absolutely adore making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home! The combination of soy sauce, mirin, and brown sugar creates a mouthwatering glaze that coats the fish beautifully. Every time I prepare this dish, the aroma fills my kitchen and makes my family gather eagerly around the table. It’s one of those recipes that not only tastes fantastic but is also incredibly quick to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence.

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:46:37.245Z

When I first tried my hand at making Teriyaki Salmon, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet rewarding it was. The key to a great teriyaki sauce lies in the balance of salty and sweet flavors, and using fresh ingredients really elevates the dish. The first time I made it, I paired it with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables, and it turned out to be a family favorite.

One tip I have is to let the salmon marinate in the teriyaki sauce for at least 10 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish, resulting in an incredibly juicy and flavorful final dish. The addition of sesame seeds on top just before serving adds the perfect crunch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ultimate blend of sweet and savory flavors
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Versatile dish that pairs well with rice and vegetables

Mastering the Teriyaki Sauce

The teriyaki sauce is the heart of this dish, and getting it right is crucial for the ultimate flavor. The combination of soy sauce and mirin not only provides a strong umami base but also introduces a hint of sweetness. Mirin, a sweet rice wine, enhances the glaze's complexity and enables it to caramelize nicely when cooked. Ensure you whisk the ingredients together until the sugar is fully dissolved—this will help achieve a smooth, glossy sauce that clings beautifully to the salmon fillets.

If you're out of mirin, you can replace it with a mixture of white wine and sugar or use a splash of sake with a bit more brown sugar. However, this may slightly alter the taste, so adjust according to your preference. Keep in mind that traditional teriyaki sauce also includes sake, which adds additional depth; if you have some on hand, feel free to incorporate it.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Salmon

When cooking the salmon, be sure to preheat your skillet adequately to medium heat before adding the oil. The oil should shimmer but not smoke, which indicates it’s hot enough. This step is key for achieving those golden edges on the salmon fillets. Optimal cooking time is usually around 4-5 minutes per side, but this can vary based on the thickness of the fillets. Look for the salmon to easily flake with a fork and check for opacity—it should turn a light pink and not be translucent.

If you prefer your salmon slightly more seasoned, consider adding a pinch of salt to both sides of the fillets before marinating. Additionally, try basting the salmon with the teriyaki sauce during the last minute of cooking for an extra layer of flavor. Just be cautious not to overcook the fish, as it can quickly dry out.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start:

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 clove garlic, minced

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
1 tablespoon olive oil
Sesame seeds for garnish
Chopped green onions for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped before cooking for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Teriyaki Salmon:

Prepare the teriyaki sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well combined.

Marinate the salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the teriyaki sauce over them. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Cook the salmon

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated salmon fillets and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, basting with extra sauce, until cooked through.

Garnish and serve

Remove the salmon from the skillet and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve with rice and vegetables.

Enjoy your flavorful Teriyaki Salmon!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash of sriracha to the teriyaki sauce for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Japanese Teriyaki Salmon meal, consider pairing it with a side of steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa. For added freshness, serve alongside sautéed seasonal vegetables such as bok choy, bell peppers, or snap peas. A simple salad with radishes and a sesame dressing can also complement the dish beautifully, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory salmon.

Garnishing the finished dish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions not only enhances the presentation but also adds a delightful crunch and freshness that balances the richness of the teriyaki glaze. Don't hesitate to sprinkle some extra teriyaki sauce on your rice for a delicious savory bite!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can make the teriyaki sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Marinating the salmon fillets in the sauce the night before can enhance the flavor significantly. Just remember to let the fish come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking—it helps with even cooking throughout.

If you have leftovers, store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a skillet over low heat to maintain its moisture and juiciness. Avoid using a microwave if possible, as this can dry out the fish quickly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with other fish like trout or chicken breast.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover teriyaki salmon can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce, such as tamari.

→ What side dishes pair well with teriyaki salmon?

Teriyaki salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a crisp salad.