Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 2 green onions, sliced for garnish

Highlighted under: Exotic Inspirations Co.

I absolutely love preparing Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home; it never fails to impress! The blend of sweet and savory flavors is simply irresistible, and the fish turns out incredibly tender and flaky. When I discovered the perfect balance of soy sauce, mirin, and brown sugar, everything changed. In just 30 minutes, I create a dish that transports me straight to Japan! Serve it over rice or with steamed vegetables, and you'll experience a delightful culinary journey from the comfort of your kitchen.

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:54:36.652Z

When I first attempted making Teriyaki Salmon, I was astounded by how easy and quick it was to prepare. It had always seemed daunting, but a few simple ingredients came together beautifully. I spent time perfecting the marinating process, and I found that letting the salmon sit for at least 15 minutes truly enhances the flavor. Now, it’s a regular in my dinner rotation.

One of my favorite tips is to baste the salmon with the marinade during cooking. This not only promotes a lovely caramelization but also amplifies the delicious, sticky glaze. The sesame seeds sprinkled on top bring in a slight crunch, making every bite a delight. Every time I make it, I'm reminded of how simple yet flavorful Japanese cuisine can be.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich umami flavor with a sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Healthy and satisfying, packed with nutrients from salmon

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade is the star of this Teriyaki Salmon dish, and getting it just right makes all the difference. The soy sauce provides a rich umami base, while mirin contributes a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor. Brown sugar enhances this sweetness and creates a beautiful caramelization when cooked. I recommend whisking the ingredients together until the sugar dissolves completely to ensure an even coating over the salmon.

For a touch of heat, you can consider adding a splash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade. This adds an exciting kick that balances perfectly with the fish's natural richness. When marinating, ensure the salmon is fully submerged in the mixture or flip it halfway through for the best flavor infusion.

Cooking Technique Insights

When cooking the salmon, maintaining the right temperature is essential for achieving a perfectly flaky texture. Start with medium heat, and be cautious not to crank it up too high, as this can lead to burnt edges before the inside is cooked through. A non-stick skillet is ideal for easy flipping and to prevent sticking, ensuring the skin stays intact and crispy.

Use a fish spatula for flipping; its wide surface makes it easier to handle delicate salmon fillets. As you baste during the second half of cooking, look for a glossy glaze forming on the surface, indicating the sugars are caramelizing. If you notice the glaze thickening too quickly, lower the heat slightly to avoid burning.

Serving and Storing Tips

Teriyaki Salmon is best served immediately to enjoy its tender, juicy texture. Pair it with steamed rice or a side of sautéed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For added flavor, consider drizzling extra sauce over the rice or veggies. Sliced avocado or sesame noodles can also make excellent accompaniments, elevating your dish with contrasting textures.

If you're looking to prepare ahead, marinate the salmon a few hours in advance, or even overnight, in the fridge. However, I advise cooking it fresh for the best flavor and texture. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days—simply reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious Teriyaki Salmon:

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Here's how to prepare your Teriyaki Salmon:

Prepare the Marinade

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

Marinate the Salmon

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

Cook the Salmon

Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated salmon fillets, skin side down, and cook for about 5-6 minutes.

Baste and Flip

Carefully flip the salmon and baste with the marinade. Cook for an additional 5-6 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.

Serve and Garnish

Remove the salmon from the skillet, sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, add a splash of sake to the marinade. You can also serve the salmon with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of mirin, a mix of sake with a teaspoon of sugar can serve as a substitute, mimicking the sweetness and depth of flavor. Additionally, if you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari, which will maintain the umami flavor while accommodating dietary restrictions. Remember, the balance of flavors in the marinade is crucial, so taste and adjust as necessary.

For those who may want to replace salmon with another fish, halibut or trout can work beautifully in this recipe. They both have a similar texture and will soak up the marinade flavors well. Adjust cooking times slightly, as thicker fillets will require a few extra minutes to ensure a cooked-through result.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue is overcooking the salmon, leading to a dry texture. If you’re unsure, use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Remove the salmon from the heat just before it reaches this temperature. The residual heat will continue cooking it slightly as it rests.

If your glaze isn't thickening as expected, it may be because of too much liquid in the marinade. Consider simmering the leftover marinade in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reduces by half, concentrating the flavors and achieving a syrupy consistency. This can be served as a drizzle over the finished dish.

Scaling Up the Recipe

This Teriyaki Salmon recipe scales beautifully for larger gatherings. Just double or triple the ingredients as needed, but ensure you have a large enough skirt for the fillets. Cooking in batches is better than overcrowding to ensure even cooking and caramelization—you can keep cooked fish warm in a low oven while you finish the rest.

When preparing for a crowd, consider serving the salmon family-style on a large platter. This not only looks impressive but also makes it easy for guests to help themselves. Accompany with bowls of rice and steamed vegetables on the side, allowing everyone to customize their plates.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.

→ What can I substitute for mirin?

You can use a mixture of rice vinegar and sugar as a substitute for mirin.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this without soy sauce?

You can try using tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos as a soy alternative.