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; 2 tablespoons mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; Sesame seeds (for garnish); Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: International Plate Stories

I absolutely love making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home. The combination of sweet and savory flavors in the teriyaki sauce not only elevates the salmon but creates a delightful aroma that fills the kitchen. Each time I whip up this dish, I find myself transported to my favorite Japanese restaurant. The process is straightforward, and the results are always impressive. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, bringing a taste of global flavors right to my table.

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-26T22:56:06.885Z

When I first tried making teriyaki salmon, I was surprised at how easy it was to replicate this dish at home. I experimented with various proportions of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar to get the perfect balance of flavors. The key is to let the salmon marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the sauce, but don't worry if your time is limited; even a little marinade makes a difference.

One tip I've discovered is to use fresh ginger and garlic in the teriyaki sauce for an extra punch. It really enhances the dish's overall taste. Pairing the salmon with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables makes it a complete meal that's both satisfying and nutritious.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, sweet-savory flavor that complements fresh salmon
Quick and easy with minimal prep time
Perfectly sticky glaze that enhances each bite

Unlocking the Secrets of Teriyaki

Teriyaki sauce is famed for its ability to balance sweet and savory elements, making it a quintessential part of this dish. The soy sauce provides depth and umami, while the brown sugar and mirin contribute sweetness that caramelizes during cooking. Understanding this balance is key; if you prefer a less sweet sauce, consider reducing the amount of brown sugar or using less mirin. Start with the listed proportions and adjust according to your taste to achieve that perfect teriyaki flavor profile.

Don't overlook the importance of garlic and ginger in the marinade. These aromatics not only enrich the flavor but also contribute to the overall aroma, making your kitchen smell divine as the salmon cooks. Freshly minced garlic and grated ginger are ideal for maximum flavor impact. If using powdered versions, use sparingly—about half of the fresh amount—since dried spices are more potent.

Perfecting Your Salmon

Choosing the right cut of salmon is crucial for this recipe. Opt for skin-on fillets for better flavor and moisture retention during cooking. If skinless fillets are used, be cautious of overcooking, as they can dry out more quickly. When selecting your salmon, look for a vibrant color and firm texture; these are indicators of freshness. If planning for leftovers, try to select fillets uniform in size to ensure even cooking throughout.

When frying the salmon, start with a hot skillet to achieve that desirable crispy skin. Heat the sesame oil until it shimmers but isn’t smoking, around medium-high heat. If the skin sticks to the skillet upon flipping, it may not have cooked long enough. Patience is key here—wait for the skin to crisp up, making the flip easier and providing a delightful texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you begin:

For the Teriyaki Marinade

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons mirin
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons sesame oil
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Have everything ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare delicious teriyaki salmon:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger until the sugar has dissolved.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour for more flavor.

Cook the Salmon

Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin-side down, and cook for about 4-5 minutes. Carefully flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes or until cooked through.

Glaze the Salmon

Pour any remaining marinade into the skillet and let it boil for a minute. Spoon the glaze over the salmon to create a sticky coating.

Serve

Transfer the salmon to plates and drizzle with the glistening glaze. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

Enjoy your homemade teriyaki salmon with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For a smoky flavor, try grilling the salmon instead of pan-frying. Just be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions

This Teriyaki Salmon pairs beautifully with steamed rice or quinoa, which helps balance out the flavors and soak up the delicious glaze. You can also serve it alongside sautéed vegetables, such as bok choy or snap peas, to add a refreshing crunch. For a more substantial meal, consider adding a side of miso soup or a simple seaweed salad for an authentic touch.

To elevate the dish further, consider creating a poke bowl-style presentation. Layer the rice at the bottom, add the glazed salmon, and then top with avocado slices, pickled radishes, and a sprinkle of furikake seasonings. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces additional textures and flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're short on time during the week, marinate the salmon in advance. After marinating, it's best to cook the salmon straight away for optimal flavor. However, if you must store it, keep the salmon and marinade separate and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember that marinating too long can overpower the fish's natural flavors, so time it right!

Cooked salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat in a skillet, or in the microwave at a reduced power to avoid drying it out. Alternatively, if you're preparing meals in bulk, consider freezing cooked salmon, ensuring it’s wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn, where it should maintain quality for up to 3 months.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, this marinade also works well with chicken or tofu.

→ How long can I marinate the salmon?

You can marinate the salmon for up to 1 hour for the best flavor.

→ What should I serve with teriyaki salmon?

We recommend steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

→ Can I make the marinade in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.