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: 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons sake; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each); Salt and pepper, to taste; Sesame seeds; Chopped green onions

Highlighted under: Global Flavor Collection

I absolutely love bringing a piece of Japan into my kitchen with this Japanese Teriyaki Salmon recipe. The fusion of savory and slightly sweet teriyaki sauce elevates the salmon, making it incredibly flavorful and juicy. In just under 30 minutes, I can serve a delicious meal that feels both special and comforting. Plus, it's so easy to prepare! I've experimented with different marinades, and this combination of soy sauce, sake, and sesame oil consistently delivers a perfect balance. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful burst of flavors.

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:09:34.984Z

When I first tried making teriyaki salmon at home, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple it was to whip up. The key is to let the salmon marinate in the teriyaki sauce for at least 15 minutes, as this allows for the flavors to penetrate deeply. I typically use skin-on salmon fillets as they stay juicy and tender, giving each bite a rich taste.

One of my favorite tips is to use a hot grill or pan to sear the salmon. It creates a beautiful caramelization, amplifying the sauce's sweetness while locking in moisture. I also like to garnish with sesame seeds and spring onions for an added pop of flavor and freshness!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory teriyaki sauce that pairs beautifully with salmon
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Deliciously moist salmon with a crispy outside

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

Teriyaki sauce is a beautiful blend of sweet and savory flavors that truly enhances dishes, especially salmon. The crucial components include soy sauce, mirin, and sake, each contributing to the depth of flavor. Soy sauce serves as the salty backbone, while mirin adds a mild sweetness and shine to the sauce. Sake not only imparts a unique flavor but also acts as a tenderizing agent for the salmon, ensuring it remains juicy throughout the cooking process.

The addition of brown sugar in the marinade plays a vital role in caramelization. As the salmon cooks, the sugar helps form a glossy, sticky glaze that enhances the dish’s visual appeal. For those looking for a lighter option, substituting honey or maple syrup for brown sugar can add a distinct flavor twist while still achieving that desired sticky finish.

Perfectly Cooking Salmon

Achieving perfectly cooked salmon can be a bit tricky, but it's all about timing and heat. Cooking salmon on medium-high heat allows it to sear properly, resulting in caramelized edges that lock in flavors. Aim for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillet. When done, the salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of about 145°F. If you prefer your salmon medium-rare, you can pull it off the heat at around 130°F for a slightly firmer texture in the center.

An essential tip I’ve learned is to resist the urge to move the salmon around too much during cooking. Let it develop a nice crust; you can tell it's ready to flip when it releases easily from the pan. If any skin remains, cooking it skin-side down first can provide an extra layer of protection and flavor, plus it crisps up beautifully!

Flavor Enhancements and Serving Suggestions

To elevate your teriyaki salmon even further, consider adding a dash of spice. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the marinade can introduce a pleasant heat that balances the sweetness of the sauce. Alternatively, try incorporating a touch of lemon zest when garnishing to add a refreshing citrus pop that brightens the dish.

When serving, this teriyaki salmon pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables such as broccoli or snap peas, creating a vibrant and healthy plate. A scoop of fluffy jasmine rice or sushi rice complements the flavors perfectly while soaking up any leftover sauce. You can also add pickled ginger or wasabi for an authentic Japanese experience, bringing an intriguing contrast to the rich teriyaki glaze.

Ingredients

Teriyaki Marinade

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

Salmon

4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

Sesame seeds
Chopped green onions

Instructions

Make the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir until the sugar dissolves.

Marinate the Salmon

Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place them in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the salmon and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade, reserving the marinade. Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and caramelized.

Prepare the Sauce

While the salmon cooks, bring the reserved marinade to a boil in a small saucepan. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Serve

Drizzle the thickened teriyaki sauce over the cooked salmon. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Pro Tips

For a more intense flavor, marinate the salmon for up to 1 hour. Serve with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

For busy weeknights, consider preparing the marinade ahead of time. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you wish to marinate the salmon fillets ahead, you can do so for up to 24 hours. Just ensure they are covered well to prevent any odors from the refrigerator affecting the fish's flavor.

Leftover cooked salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It's great cold in a salad or reheated gently in the microwave on low power, so it retains moisture. Just be cautious not to overheat it, which can lead to dryness.

Cooking Equipment and Tools

Using a grill pan or a good-quality cast iron skillet is ideal for cooking the salmon. These tools conduct heat evenly, resulting in a nice sear and allowing for precise temperature control. If using a non-stick pan, it can help reduce the chances of sticking, especially when cooking skin-on fillets.

Another useful tool is a meat thermometer, which can help you monitor the internal temperature without cutting into the salmon. This ensures that you achieve the perfect balance between doneness and moisture, avoiding the common pitfall of overcooking.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with the types of fish used; although salmon is traditional, other firm fish like tuna, halibut, or even chicken can be marinated and cooked using the same method. Just adjust the cooking times based on the thickness and type of fish or meat you choose.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substituting tamari for the soy sauce will yield a similar flavor without the gluten. Additionally, you could use coconut aminos, which offer a slightly sweeter and less salty profile, making it an excellent alternative for those with dietary restrictions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different fish instead of salmon?

Yes, you can use any firm fish like tuna or halibut, though the cooking time may vary.

→ How long should I marinate the salmon?

Marinate for at least 15 minutes, but up to 1 hour for stronger flavor.

→ What sides go well with teriyaki salmon?

Steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh green salad are great options.

→ Can I make the teriyaki sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce a few days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.