Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons mirin; 1 tablespoon sake; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 garlic clove, minced; 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Sesame seeds, for garnish; Chopped green onions, for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Plate Delights

I've always been fascinated by the depth of flavors in Japanese cuisine, and this Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon brings those flavors right to my kitchen. The sweet and savory teriyaki glaze perfectly complements the rich, buttery salmon, creating a dish that's both satisfying and elegant. It’s quick to prepare, making it the ideal choice for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for special occasions. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to serve it again and again!

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:07:34.790Z

When I first experimented with making teriyaki sauce from scratch, I was amazed at how simple and delicious it was. I realized that the balance of soy sauce, sake, and sugar created a glossy glaze that made the salmon shimmer with flavor. To enhance the dish, I recommend marinating the salmon for at least 30 minutes, as this allows the flavors to penetrate deep into the fish, ensuring every bite is a burst of umami goodness.

Pairing this teriyaki salmon with steamed rice and a side of sautéed vegetables not only adds color to the plate but also introduces a wonderful contrast in textures. I often add sesame seeds and green onions for garnish, giving the dish a refreshing crunch that elevates it further. This meal is a delightful escape to Japan, right from the comfort of my home!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The balance of sweet and savory in the teriyaki glaze.
Salmon that's tender and flaky, infused with rich flavors.
A quick and easy preparation that doesn't compromise on taste.

Unlocking Umami with Teriyaki Sauce

The teriyaki sauce is the heart of this dish, contributing a depth of umami that elevates the salmon's natural richness. The combination of soy sauce and brown sugar creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory, while mirin adds a subtle depth of flavor that can’t be overlooked. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Just remember to check that your brown sugar is also gluten-free, ensuring this dish meets varying dietary needs.

For those who enjoy a hint of heat, try adding a dash of red pepper flakes or some finely chopped fresh chili to the teriyaki sauce. This simple adjustment can transform the entire profile of the dish, giving it a dynamic kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. Additionally, if you want a thicker glaze, allow the sauce to simmer just a bit longer until it coats the back of a spoon, becoming luscious and glossy.

Perfecting Salmon Fillets

Choosing the right salmon is crucial for a successful dish. Opt for wild-caught salmon if possible, as it tends to have a firmer texture and richer flavor compared to farmed varieties. Look for fillets that have vibrant color and minimal white lines (albumin) on the surface; this indicates freshness. Keeping the skin on while cooking not only protects the delicate flesh but also adds flavor when crisped up in the pan.

When cooking the salmon, remember that residual heat will continue cooking the fish even after you remove it from the skillet. To ensure optimum flakiness and prevent overcooking, aim for a slightly underdone center, which should be about 125°F internally. Allow the salmon to rest for a couple of minutes before serving; this helps the juices redistribute, leading to a tender bite in every piece.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for the best results.

For the Teriyaki Sauce

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

For the Salmon

2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Chopped green onions, for garnish

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect teriyaki salmon.

Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, sake, ginger, and garlic. Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the sauce slightly thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour half of the teriyaki sauce over them. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Cook the Salmon

Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade, reserving the sauce, then cook the fillets skin-side down for about 4-5 minutes. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes.

Glaze the Salmon

Pour the reserved teriyaki sauce over the salmon in the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly.

Serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, and serve hot with rice and vegetables.

Enjoy your delicious homemade teriyaki salmon!

Pro Tips

For an even more intense flavor, grill the salmon after marinating instead of pan-searing it. This will add a beautiful char and smokiness that complements the teriyaki sauce perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

Teriyaki salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that highlight its rich, savory notes. For a complete meal, consider serving it over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or quinoa, which will soak up the delicious teriyaki sauce. Additionally, stir-fried vegetables like bok choy, bell peppers, and snap peas not only complement the flavors but also add a vibrant pop of color to your plate.

You can also easily turn this dish into a salmon bowl. Simply break the cooked salmon into large flakes and toss it with diced avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger. Drizzle on extra teriyaki sauce and serve it all over sushi rice. This not only offers a delightful textural contrast but also makes for an eye-catching presentation at dinner parties.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're short on time, you can prepare the teriyaki sauce ahead of time and keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can also be frozen for longer storage. Just let it thaw overnight in the fridge before using. This allows the flavors to meld together even more, intensifying the deliciousness when you finally use it on your salmon.

Alternatively, you can marinate the salmon fillets overnight in the refrigerator. This not only helps deepen the flavors but also makes your weeknight cooking even quicker. Just remember to remove the fillets from the marinade and pat them dry before cooking, as excess moisture can prevent a good sear, resulting in a less desirable texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with other fatty fish like mackerel or tuna.

→ Is there a vegetarian substitute for the teriyaki sauce?

Yes, you can use tofu or tempeh instead of fish for a vegetarian version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze the marinated salmon?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated salmon before cooking. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.