Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

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

Highlighted under: Worldly Flavors

I absolutely love making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home! The rich, savory flavor of teriyaki sauce combined with the tender flakes of salmon creates a dish that feels both indulgent and healthy. Each bite is a delightful balance of sweet and umami, making it a perfect dinner option for any day of the week. I often serve it with steamed rice and fresh vegetables, but you can customize it to your liking. This recipe is so easy to follow, and the results are truly restaurant-quality!

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-26T21:49:38.311Z

When I first tried Teriyaki Salmon at a local restaurant, I was blown away by the flavor! I knew I had to recreate it at home. After experimenting with various ingredients, I found that using a mix of soy sauce, mirin, and brown sugar creates a perfect glaze that coats the salmon beautifully. The key is to marinate the fish for just the right amount of time to ensure it absorbs all those delicious flavors.

I usually pair the salmon with some roasted vegetables and fluffy rice. The contrasting textures and flavors elevate the dish even more. One tip I learned is to sear the salmon skin-side down first; it makes for a crispy texture that I absolutely love!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously sweet and savory teriyaki glaze that enhances the salmon's natural flavors
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions
Healthy yet indulgent, packed with omega-3 fatty acids and rich in flavor

      

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

Teriyaki sauce is a key component of this dish, contributing both flavor and shine. The combination of soy sauce and mirin creates a rich umami base, while the brown sugar adds a sweet contrast that caramelizes beautifully when cooked. This balance is essential to achieving that signature teriyaki taste. For an extra kick, you can add a splash of sake or rice vinegar to the marinade, which will brighten the overall flavor profile and add complexity.

The inclusion of ginger and garlic in the marinade not only enhances the taste but also provides aromatic notes that complement the salmon perfectly. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider reducing the amount of garlic or even omitting it. It's important to let the salmon marinate long enough for these ingredients to penetrate the fish, but if you're short on time, even 15 minutes can make a noticeable difference.

Cooking Technique Tips

When cooking the salmon, using a non-stick skillet helps prevent sticking and allows for a nice sear on the skin. Make sure to preheat the skillet to medium-high heat before placing the salmon in; this ensures that you achieve beautifully crisp skin while locking in the juices. I recommend cooking skin-side down first for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy, which not only adds texture but also enhances the dish visually.

If you're uncertain about the doneness of your salmon, look for a change in color—they should appear opaque and flake easily with a fork when fully cooked. If you prefer your salmon more well-done, adjust cooking time slightly. Just be cautious not to overcook, as salmon can become dry and lose that luscious texture we aim for.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your teriyaki salmon:

Ingredients for Teriyaki Salmon

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
Sesame seeds for garnish
Chopped green onions for garnish

Make sure to prepare these ingredients ahead of time for a hassle-free cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your flavorful teriyaki salmon:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger until the sugar dissolves completely.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade, reserving the marinade. Add the salmon, skin-side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes.

Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes until cooked through.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the reserved marinade and bring to a simmer. Reduce for about 2-3 minutes until thickened.

Serve

Drizzle the sauce over the cooked salmon. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot with rice and steamed vegetables.

Enjoy your homemade teriyaki salmon with a side of rice and vegetables for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For best results, use fresh salmon fillets and let the marinade sit for at least 15 minutes to infuse the flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This teriyaki salmon recipe is not only quick to prepare but can be conveniently made ahead of time. You can marinate the salmon fillets in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to develop even further, making the dish taste even more restaurant-quality when you cook it. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature for about 15 minutes prior to cooking for even cooking.

Leftover salmon can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat to maintain its moisture. Another delicious option is to flake the leftover salmon and toss it into a salad or use it in sushi rolls, providing a creative way to enjoy your meal the next day.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, I love serving teriyaki salmon with fluffy steamed rice and a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or snap peas. The earthy flavors of the vegetables complement the rich teriyaki glaze beautifully. You could also consider adding pickled vegetables on the side for a refreshing crunch that balances the dish's sweetness.

For those looking to expand flavors, drizzle some citrus vinaigrette over the vegetables or add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick. You can also experiment with different grains like quinoa or farro for a nutritious twist. This dish can adapt to various cuisines, allowing for endless creativity suited to your taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different fish?

Yes, you can use other fish like trout or tilapia, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best fresh, you can marinate the salmon a few hours ahead and cook it just before serving.

→ What should I serve with my teriyaki salmon?

It's delicious served with rice, steamed broccoli, or a fresh salad.