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: 4 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons sake; 2 tablespoons mirin; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; Green onions, for garnish; Sesame seeds, for garnish

Highlighted under: International Food Studio

I absolutely love making this Japanese Teriyaki Salmon dish at home! Each time I prepare it, I enjoy how the sweet and savory flavors blend beautifully, making the salmon incredibly delicious. The marinade, which consists of soy sauce, sake, and mirin, adds a depth of flavor that really elevates the dish. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, taking just a few minutes for prep and cook time. I find that serving it over rice or alongside steamed vegetables complements the flavors perfectly.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-01-26T21:45:34.306Z

Every time I make this teriyaki salmon, I am reminded of the amazing flavors from my travels to Japan. The sweet-salty glaze of the soy sauce and the smooth hints of mirin create an irresistible combination that has me going back for seconds.

I discovered that marinating the salmon for just a short while before cooking allows it to absorb all those luscious flavors. A quick sear in the pan, and you’ll achieve that perfect caramelization on the outside while keeping the inside tender and flaky. Trust me, it's simply divine!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Irresistibly sweet and savory teriyaki glaze
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
Healthy, flaky salmon packed with Omega-3s

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

The teriyaki glaze in this recipe plays a crucial role in defining the flavor profile of the dish. Combining soy sauce, sake, and mirin creates a perfect balance of umami and sweetness, enhancing the salmon's natural flavors. The addition of brown sugar helps achieve that characteristic glossy finish, while sesame oil adds richness and depth. Allowing the sauce to thicken slightly when cooking intensifies the flavors, so keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

If you’re looking for a lighter teriyaki sauce, consider substituting the brown sugar with honey or maple syrup. These alternatives will still provide sweetness but with a slightly different flavor profile. Alternatively, for a low-sodium version, you can use tamari or low-sodium soy sauce, allowing you to enjoy the teriyaki flavor without compromising your dietary preferences.

Mastering Cooking Techniques

Cooking the salmon skin-side down initially helps to achieve a crispy texture, which complements the tender fish. When placing the fillets in the skillet, ensure the pan is hot enough by testing a small drop of water—if it dances and evaporates, you're ready. During the cooking process, avoid moving the fillets around too much; let them cook undisturbed for the best texture, flipping them only once the skin has developed a beautiful, golden crisp.

A common mistake is overcooking the salmon, which can lead to a dry texture. To prevent this, watch for the salmon to turn opaque and slightly flake with a fork; this usually takes around 10-15 minutes total on medium-high heat. If you're unsure, using an instant-read thermometer can help; the salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for perfect doneness.

Serving and Storing Tips

To create a well-rounded meal, serve the teriyaki salmon with steamed vegetables like bok choy, broccoli, or asparagus. This not only adds color to the plate but also enhances the meal's nutritional value. Additionally, serving it over a bed of fluffy white rice or quinoa allows the grains to soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite flavorful.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating can be done in the microwave, but if you prefer, you can warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. This dish also freezes well; wrap individual portions tightly and store them for up to a month for a quick dinner option.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for the perfect Teriyaki Salmon.

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sake
2 tablespoons mirin
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
Green onions, for garnish
Sesame seeds, for garnish

Prepare the salmon by marinating it in this flavorful mixture.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Teriyaki Salmon.

Prepare Marinade

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sake, mirin, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved.

Marinate Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook Salmon

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the fillets skin-side down in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy.

Glaze the Salmon

Flip the fillets and pour the remaining marinade into the skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, basting occasionally, until the salmon is cooked through.

Garnish and Serve

Remove the salmon from heat, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve warm over rice or with steamed vegetables.

Enjoy your meal while savoring the delicious flavors!

Pro Tips

For an even deeper flavor, let the salmon marinate for an hour in the refrigerator before cooking. This will enhance the teriyaki taste.

Flavor Enhancements

Consider adding a dash of chili flakes or a splash of spicy sesame oil to the marinade for a kick of heat. This can elevate the dish and cater to those who enjoy a bit of spice with their sweet teriyaki sauce. Another option is to incorporate a splash of citrus—like orange juice or zest—into the marinade for a refreshing twist.

For a twist on presentation, try serving the salmon with a mango salsa on top. The fresh, fruity elements not only contrast beautifully with the teriyaki flavors but also add a vibrant touch to your plated dish. This variation is especially delightful during summer months when mangoes are at their peak.

Dietary Adaptations

For those following a plant-based diet, tofu or tempeh can be great substitutes for salmon in this teriyaki recipe. Firm tofu can absorb the marinade just as well, providing a satisfying texture. Remember to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before marinating, so it can soak up the flavors more effectively.

If you want to avoid gluten, opt for gluten-free soy sauce, or choose coconut aminos as a soy sauce alternative. This ensures that anyone with dietary restrictions can still enjoy the rich, flavorful experience of teriyaki without any compromise.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings or meal prep. When adjusting the quantities, maintain the same marinade ratios to ensure the flavor remains consistent. For instance, if doubling the recipe for eight salmon fillets, use 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup sake, and 1/4 cup mirin, and adjust cooking times slightly if using multiple skillets or larger pans.

If you plan to serve a crowd, consider cooking the salmon in the oven for even results. Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the marinated salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, ensuring they are evenly spaced to allow for proper cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use trout, red snapper, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for the soy sauce?

Yes, you can substitute regular soy sauce with tamari, which is gluten-free.

→ What side dishes pair well with teriyaki salmon?

Steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad make great accompaniments to this dish.

→ Can I make the marinade in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.