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; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish); Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Highlighted under: World Kitchen Classics

I absolutely love making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home. The combination of the sweet and savory teriyaki sauce perfectly complements the rich flavor of the salmon. Each time I prepare it, I'm amazed at how the simple ingredients come together to create a dish that feels both gourmet and comforting. It’s a delight to serve at gatherings or enjoy on a quiet evening, and the best part? It comes together in just 30 minutes!

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-26T22:07:34.046Z

When I first tried making teriyaki sauce from scratch, I was surprised by how easy it was. The blend of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar creates a luscious glaze that transforms the salmon into a savory masterpiece. Using fresh ingredients really enhances the flavor, so I recommend opting for high-quality soy sauce and using a good cut of salmon.

After perfecting my technique, I discovered that marinating the salmon for just a brief moment intensifies the flavors beautifully without overwhelming the fish. If you can, let it sit for about 10 minutes before cooking. This will result in a perfectly caramelized exterior without jeopardizing the tender texture of the salmon!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich umami flavor from the homemade teriyaki sauce
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Perfectly flaky salmon that melts in your mouth

      

Unlocking the Teriyaki Flavors

The secret to achieving that rich umami flavor in your teriyaki sauce lies in the balance of soy sauce and mirin. Soy sauce offers the foundational savory notes, while mirin contributes sweetness and a distinctive depth. When whisking the marinade, ensure that the brown sugar is thoroughly dissolved, which not only sweetens but also helps create a nice glossy finish on the salmon when cooked. Allowing the marinade to sit for a few minutes enhances the flavors before it's applied to the fish.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider letting the marinade simmer briefly on low heat before marinating the salmon. This step helps meld the garlic and ginger into the sauce, making it more aromatic and flavorful. Be careful not to over-simmer—just until you notice the aromas becoming pronounced and the sauce slightly thickens. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in flavor.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Salmon

When cooking the salmon, preheat your skillet properly. A medium-high heat is ideal; this allows the salmon to sear beautifully, forming a golden crust while retaining moisture inside. If you notice the salmon releases water instead of searing, the heat might be too low. An important visual cue is to look for golden edges and a slightly caramelized surface, which signals it's time to flip the fillets.

To ensure your salmon is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. If you prefer your salmon a bit rarer, aim for around 125°F (52°C) to 130°F (54°C). Remember, salmon continues to cook slightly after removing it from heat, so don’t panic if it seems a touch underdone at first!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your mouthwatering teriyaki salmon:

Ingredients

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

Make sure you have everything prepped and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious teriyaki salmon:

Prepare the Marinade

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

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Allow the salmon to marinate for about 10 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade, reserving the marinade. Cook the salmon fillets for 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

Glaze with Marinade

In the same skillet, add the reserved marinade and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the sauce thickens slightly. Pour the sauce over the cooked salmon.

Serve

Garnish the salmon with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Your delicious teriyaki salmon is now ready to be savored!

Pro Tips

For a complete meal, serve the teriyaki salmon with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables on the side.

Servings and Leftover Ideas

This recipe serves four, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings. If you're cooking for fewer people, salmon is generally easy to scale down; simply halve the marinade ingredients and ensure you check the cooking time, as smaller fillets may cook quicker.

Leftover salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat simply by placing it in a skillet with a splash of water or broth on low heat, covering it with a lid for a few minutes to keep it moist. Flaking leftover salmon over salads or into pasta adds a delightful twist to your next meal.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with the flavor profile of your teriyaki sauce. Adding a splash of rice vinegar introduces a tang that brightens the dish, while a dash of chili flakes can provide a spicy kick. For gluten-free choices, substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce, and ensure your brown sugar is also gluten-free.

If salmon isn’t your preferred fish, this teriyaki marinade works well with other types like chicken or firm tofu. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken needs to reach a higher internal temperature and tofu has a shorter cooking period. Both alternatives absorb the marinade flavors beautifully, making them excellent choices for this recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, other firm fish like halibut or trout work well with teriyaki sauce.

→ How long can I marinate the salmon?

Marinate for up to 30 minutes for a more intense flavor, but do not exceed that time to avoid over-seasoning.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.

→ Can I make the teriyaki sauce in advance?

Absolutely! You can store the teriyaki sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.