Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 4 salmon fillets; 1 tablespoon cooking oil; Toasted sesame seeds for garnish; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Cuisine Without Borders

I absolutely love creating dishes that transport you across the globe, and this Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon does just that. Combining the savory notes of soy sauce with the sweetness of mirin and sugar, this dish has become a family favorite. It’s not only quick to prepare but also allows the salmon to shine with its flaky texture and rich flavor. Serve it with steamed rice and vegetables, and you’ve got a meal that is equal parts indulgent and satisfying. Let’s dive into this culinary journey together!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:07:34.602Z

When I first tried teriyaki salmon at a Japanese restaurant, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create such a delicious flavor. The key to achieving that authentic taste lies in balancing the salty and sweet ingredients. I love using fresh salmon fillets as they absorb the marinade beautifully, becoming tender and juicy too.

One of my best tips is to let the salmon marinate for at least 30 minutes but not longer than 2 hours. This ensures the fish is flavorful without becoming too salty. Cooking it on high heat for a short time gives it that caramelized finish that makes each bite irresistible!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory, sweet, and slightly sticky teriyaki glaze
Simple ingredients that come together seamlessly
Quick enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for guests

Understanding Teriyaki Flavors

Teriyaki sauce is the star of this dish, combining soy sauce and mirin to create a balance between savory and sweet. The richness from the soy sauce lends a depth of flavor, while mirin, a Japanese rice wine, adds a hint of sweetness and acidity. This synergy is what makes the salmon so delectable, as it absorbs these flavors during the marination stage. The brown sugar further enhances this dynamic, allowing for a beautiful caramelization during cooking. Look for a syrupy texture in the glaze for that perfect finish.

To elevate the flavors of your teriyaki sauce, consider adding a splash of sake or rice vinegar. Sake can impart a slight umami depth, while rice vinegar brightens the sauce, making it more complex. Adjusting the ratio of ingredients according to your taste is also essential; if you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to increase the brown sugar, but keep in mind that this may alter the consistency of the glaze.

Perfecting the Salmon

Choosing the right salmon is crucial for this dish. I recommend opting for wild-caught salmon if possible, as it has a richer flavor and firmer texture than farmed salmon. Look for fillets that have vibrant color and no fishy smell. If you can find skin-on fillets, they can add extra flavor during cooking, as the skin helps retain moisture and adds crispness when seared properly. Just be sure to scale back the cooking time slightly, as the skin can lead to faster cooking.

When cooking the salmon, be mindful of the temperature. A medium-high heat setting works best to achieve a golden crust while preventing the fish from drying out. Use a non-stick skillet to avoid any sticking and deteriorating the fish. If preferred, you can cook the salmon under a broiler for about 6-8 minutes, which can also enhance the glaze's caramelization without the hassle of flipping.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a complete meal, I recommend serving the teriyaki salmon over steamed white or brown rice, which acts as a perfect base to soak up the delicious glaze. Adding steamed broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas not only increases the nutritional value but also gives a gorgeous color contrast on the plate. For an extra touch, consider drizzling a little bit of extra teriyaki sauce over the vegetables.

If you're looking to switch things up, try incorporating other proteins like chicken or tofu into the marinade. The cooking method remains largely the same – just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the protein. Tofu will need slightly longer marination, while chicken may require thorough cooking to an internal temperature of 165°F. This simple substitution can introduce new textures and flavors while retaining the essence of this beloved recipe.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your teriyaki salmon.

For the Teriyaki Marinade

1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
1 tablespoon cooking oil
Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Chopped green onions for garnish

These ingredients will bring the flavors of Japan right to your kitchen!

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for the perfect teriyaki salmon.

Prepare the Marinade

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

Marinate the Salmon

Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Cook the Salmon

Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, basting with the marinade until cooked through and caramelized.

Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately with rice and steamed vegetables.

Your teriyaki salmon is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For best results, use fresh ingredients and adjust the marinade sweetness to your taste by adding more or less brown sugar.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This teriyaki salmon recipe is excellent for meal prep. You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Just keep the salmon fillets separated until you're ready to marinate and cook them, as this helps maintain their freshness. Once cooked, the salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

If you find yourself with leftovers, consider flaking the salmon into salads or bowls. It pairs beautifully with quinoa or farro and can enhance a simple green salad with its rich flavor. Reheat the salmon gently in the microwave at medium power, taking care not to overcook it, which can cause dryness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue people face when making teriyaki salmon is overcooking the fish, resulting in a dry texture. To avoid this, always monitor cooking time closely and check for an internal temperature of about 125°F for medium-rare salmon. Remember that the fish will continue to cook slightly after it is removed from the heat, so it's better to undercook than overcook.

Another challenge can be the thickness of the glaze. If you find your marinade isn't thickening as desired, consider simmering it gently in a saucepan after marinating the salmon. This will help concentrate the flavors and create a more sticky sauce. Always make sure to add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water, if you need to thicken it quickly while retaining its shine and moisture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

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

→ What can I substitute for mirin?

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

→ How long can I marinate the salmon?

You can marinate the salmon for up to 2 hours, but avoid longer to prevent it from becoming too salty.

→ What sides go well with teriyaki salmon?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad pair well with teriyaki salmon.