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

Highlighted under: Flavors Abroad

I absolutely love making this Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home! The blend of sweet and savory teriyaki sauce perfectly complements the rich flavor of the salmon. I find that marinating the fish for at least 30 minutes elevates the taste tremendously. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also brings a touch of Japanese cuisine into my kitchen, giving us a delightful meal that's packed with flavor. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe never fails to impress.

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:55:34.823Z

Making this Japanese Teriyaki Salmon has become a staple in my home cooking routine. I love how the simplicity of the ingredients allows the flavors to shine. The glossy finish from the teriyaki sauce makes it visually appetizing, too! One tip I’ve found helpful is to use a cast-iron skillet for cooking; it helps achieve a perfect sear while locking in moisture.

When I first tried making teriyaki sauce from scratch, the result blew me away! It was so much better than store-bought versions. I often pair the salmon with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables, which balances the dish beautifully. Each bite is a celebration of Japan's incredible culinary tradition!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich teriyaki flavor that enhances the salmon's natural taste
Quick and easy preparation perfect for weeknight dinners
A harmonious pairing with rice and vegetables for a complete meal

      

Marinade Magic

The marinade for this teriyaki salmon is a harmonious blend of flavors that truly enhances the fish. The combination of soy sauce and mirin provides a sweet and salty profile, while brown sugar adds depth and caramelization during cooking. For the best results, use high-quality soy sauce; it can drastically influence the final taste. Allowing the salmon to marinate for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate the fish, but marinating it for 1-2 hours can yield even more robust results, so plan accordingly.

In my experience, the key to a great marinade is balance. The garlic and ginger not only contribute aromatic elements but also add a mild heat that complements the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce. If you're sensitive to spice, consider reducing the amount of garlic or opting for a milder variety. Alternatively, you can swap out the brown sugar for honey for a different, yet delicious sweetness — just be cautious with the quantity, as honey is generally sweeter.

Cooking Technique

When cooking the salmon, using a non-stick skillet is essential to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Heat the skillet to medium-high; you want to achieve a good sizzle when placing the salmon in the pan. Make sure the salmon fillets are dry to help develop a beautiful, golden crust. Cook the fish skin-side down first; this helps render the fat from the skin for added flavor and prevents the delicate flesh from burning.

While flipping the salmon can be a daunting task, it’s best to use a wide spatula to carefully turn the fillets once the skin reaches a golden, crispy texture after about 4 minutes. Take care not to move the salmon too much, as this can break the fillets apart. Pouring the reserved marinade into the skillet not only intensifies the flavor but also creates a sumptuous sauce that envelops the salmon, adding moisture and gloss. Baste the salmon with this sauce intermittently while cooking to enhance the flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make the perfect teriyaki salmon:

Ingredients

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

Make sure you have everything ready for this delicious teriyaki salmon!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to achieve tender and flavorful teriyaki salmon:

Marinate the Salmon

In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Place the salmon fillets in the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and place the fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes.

Add the Marinade

Carefully flip the salmon and pour the reserved marinade into the skillet. Cook for an additional 4-6 minutes, basting the salmon with the sauce until it thickens slightly.

Serve

Once cooked, remove the salmon from the skillet and serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy your meal!

This dish is sure to impress your family and friends!

Pro Tips

For best results, use fresh salmon fillets and allow them ample time to marinate.
Experiment with adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

This teriyaki salmon pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice and a side of sautéed vegetables such as bok choy or snap peas for a well-rounded meal. Consider making a simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sesame seeds for added crunch and contrast to the dish. The bright flavors of the salad can really elevate the overall presentation and experience.

For a more substantial meal, serve the salmon over a bed of quinoa or farro, which will absorb the delightful teriyaki sauce and add a nutty flavor. If you want to incorporate more vegetables into the dish, try placing thinly sliced bell peppers and carrots in the pan with the salmon during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing them to soften in the teriyaki glaze.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover teriyaki salmon, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or additional marinade to keep it moist. Avoid using high heat as this can dry out the fish and compromise its texture. In about 5-7 minutes, it should be warmed through while retaining its delicious flavors.

For those looking to meal prep, this teriyaki salmon can be cooked and then frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to allow the salmon to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently as mentioned above to bring it back to life without compromising taste or texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can substitute with other fish like trout or tilapia, but the cooking time may vary.

→ Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce.

→ Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Yes, you can make the marinade a day earlier and store it in the fridge.

→ What side dishes pair well with Teriyaki Salmon?

Steamed rice and sautéed vegetables make excellent companions, along with a simple salad.