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: 2 salmon fillets (6 ounces each); 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; Sesame seeds (for garnish); Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Highlighted under: World Recipe Collection

I absolutely love making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home because it's incredibly easy and full of flavor. The combination of sweet and savory from the teriyaki sauce elevates the salmon to a whole new level. Each time I prepare it, I am thrilled by how the glaze caramelizes beautifully during cooking, creating a deliciously sticky surface. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and impressing guests alike. Plus, serving it with steamed rice and fresh vegetables makes for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:39:35.676Z

When I first tried my hand at making teriyaki salmon, I was a bit apprehensive. I had seen so many variations and wasn't sure if I could achieve that signature glaze at home. To my delight, the blend of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar turned into a rich, glossy sauce that enveloped the salmon beautifully. I discovered that allowing the salmon to marinate for just 15 minutes enhances the flavors significantly.

Over time, I've perfected my technique by adjusting the balance of ingredients based on personal taste. I learned to finish the salmon under the broiler for a few minutes, which gives it the perfect char while keeping the inside tender and moist. It's now a go-to dish in my household.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Sweet and savory teriyaki glaze that caramelizes beautifully
Quick and easy to prepare for any weeknight dinner
Healthy salmon packed with omega-3 fatty acids

      

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

Teriyaki sauce is a lovely balance of sweet and savory, making it a versatile marinade that enhances the natural flavors of salmon. The combination of soy sauce and mirin creates umami depth, while brown sugar adds sweetness, helping to create that signature caramelized glaze. It's essential to let the marinade sit on the salmon, allowing the fish to absorb the flavors. Aim for a nice, thick marinade consistency; too watery won't adhere as well to the salmon while cooking.

The garlic and ginger in the marinade are not just for flavor—they also provide a bit of warmth and depth that elevates this dish further. If you prefer a stronger spice kick, feel free to add more ginger or even a dash of chili flakes. I find using fresh ingredients greatly enhances the taste, so opt for fresh ginger over powdered, if possible. A hint of vinegary brightness from the rice vinegar helps cut through the richness of the salmon, keeping the dish balanced.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Salmon

Achieving perfectly cooked salmon requires careful attention to heat levels. Starting at medium heat allows the salmon to cook evenly, yielding tender, flaky fish. When placing the salmon skin-side down in the skillet, avoid moving it around as it cooks; this helps the skin crisp up nicely and prevents sticking. Depending on the thickness of your fillets, you may need to adjust cooking times—thicker pieces might require an extra minute or two, while thinner ones will cook faster.

Flipping the salmon only once lets it develop a beautiful brown crust on one side before adding the marinade. It's crucial to monitor the visual cues; look for a golden color and slightly opaque edges to indicate that it’s nearing doneness. If you're concerned about undercooking, use a fork to gently flake the salmon in the center; it should easily separate if it’s finished cooking. Moreover, don’t overlook the finishing step of broiling; this is where you'll create those irresistible caramelized edges that everyone loves.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious teriyaki salmon dish:

Ingredients

2 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons mirin
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Make sure to use fresh salmon for the best taste!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your teriyaki salmon:

Make the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger until the sugar is dissolved.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Remove salmon from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and place skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes.

Glaze the Salmon

Flip the salmon, then add the reserved marinade to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, occasionally spooning the sauce over the salmon.

Finish and Serve

For an extra char, place the salmon under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Serve with rice and vegetables for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, try to marinate the salmon for longer if time permits. Using skin-on salmon will help keep it moist during cooking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to prep this Japanese Teriyaki Salmon in advance, the marinade can be made up to a week ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste when you’re ready to use it. Simply marinate the salmon fillets for 15 minutes just before cooking, and you'll have a delicious dinner ready in no time. When cooked, leftover salmon can be refrigerated and enjoyed within three days.

For reheating, I recommend placing the salmon in an oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) for about 10 minutes to retain moisture, rather than using a microwave which can dry it out. Alternatively, serve it cold atop a salad for a delightful lunch option that maintains the rich flavors of the teriyaki glaze.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

For a complete meal, serve this teriyaki salmon with steamed white or brown rice and a side of sautéed vegetables like bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas. The rice will soak up any extra sauce, giving you that delightful sweet-salty flavor in every bite. You can also add a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra crunch and freshness, creating a beautiful presentation.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider pairing the salmon with a refreshing cucumber salad dressed lightly with rice vinegar. This adds a crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the salmon. Alternatively, serving with grilled fruit like pineapple or peaches provides a fun twist that complements the teriyaki flavor, enhancing its sweetness while offering a unique texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, you can use other firm fish like trout or even chicken for a variation.

→ What can I serve with teriyaki salmon?

I recommend pairing it with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a simple salad.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the salmon a few hours in advance and then cook it when ready.

→ What should I do if I don't have mirin?

You can substitute mirin with a mixture of sake and sugar or just skip it altogether.