Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 teaspoons grated ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Worldly Home Cooking

I absolutely love making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home. This dish combines the rich, sweet flavor of the teriyaki glaze with succulent salmon, and it has quickly become a family favorite. I enjoy how simple it is to prepare in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The smell of the marinade bubbling away is simply enticing. Once you try making it, you’ll find the gorgeous, glossy finish irresistible and a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:05:38.900Z

When I first attempted making teriyaki salmon, I was surprised at how easy it was to replicate that authentic sweet-savory flavor right in my kitchen. The combination of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar creates a beautiful glaze, and I’ve learned that a quick marinate can elevate the taste remarkably. I often serve it on a bed of steamed rice, which soaks up every bit of the delicious sauce.

One tip I've picked up is to sear the salmon skin-side down first; this not only crisps the skin nicely but also locks in moisture for a perfectly tender piece of fish. Trust me, the little details make this dish something special and worth repeating often!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich sweetness of homemade teriyaki sauce
Tender, flaky salmon with a crispy skin
Quick and easy to prepare for any night of the week

The Role of Marinade

Marinating the salmon not only infuses it with rich flavors but also helps to keep the fish moist during cooking. This teriyaki marinade, with its blend of soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic, creates a harmonious balance of sweet and savory that elevates the salmon. As the fish sits in the marinade for at least 15 minutes, the ingredients penetrate, enhancing both taste and texture. If time allows, marinate for up to an hour for even deeper flavor.

The use of soy sauce in the marinade acts as a tenderizer due to its salt content, which breaks down some of the proteins in the fish. Integrating ginger and garlic not only adds zest but also contributes antioxidants, making this dish not just tasty but also somewhat health-conscious. Just be sure to discard any leftover marinade after removing the salmon, as it has been in contact with raw fish.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Salmon

The key to achieving that delightful crispy skin is to cook the salmon skin-side down initially. Utilizing medium heat in your skillet is crucial; too high a heat can lead to burning, while too low won't render the fat properly, leaving the skin soggy. Cooking for about 5 minutes on the skin-side allows for a golden, perfectly crisp outer layer. If you're unsure, peeking to check for a golden hue before flipping can help guide your timing.

When you flip the salmon, make sure to do so gently to avoid breaking the fillets apart. Using a thin spatula can help with this. After flipping, pouring the marinade directly into the hot skillet not only adds flavor but also deglazes the pan, picking up those delicious browned bits from the bottom. This process will yield a glossy sauce that clings beautifully to the salmon, making it visually appealing as well as tasty.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This teriyaki salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, from steamed rice to stir-fried vegetables or a crisp salad. The glaze’s sweetness complements the earthiness of roasted vegetables like bok choy or green beans. Adding a side of sesame noodles could transport this dish further into traditional Japanese cuisine, making for a colorful and well-rounded meal. If you're preparing for a gathering, consider serving the salmon on a platter and simply drizzling each portion with the teriyaki sauce right before serving.

For those looking for dietary swaps, you can substitute the salmon with tofu for a vegetarian version or try chicken thighs if you prefer poultry. Just adjust the cooking time; chicken may need a few more minutes to ensure it’s cooked through. Increase the dish's brightness by incorporating fresh lime juice or cilantro as a finishing touch for zest. Experimenting with these variations can keep this recipe fresh and exciting every time you make it.

Ingredients for Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth workflow.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, grated ginger, and garlic until well combined. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water and add it to the mixture.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and place skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until the skin is crispy.

Glaze with Sauce

Flip the salmon to cook the other side for another 5 minutes, then pour the remaining marinade into the skillet. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Serve

Transfer the salmon to a serving plate, drizzle with the teriyaki sauce, and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Enjoy your delicious teriyaki salmon with rice or steamed vegetables.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, add some sake to the marinade. You can also experiment with the type of fish
a firm white fish also works well with this recipe.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Japanese Teriyaki Salmon can be prepped in advance, making it ideal for busy weeknights. You can prepare the marinade earlier in the day or even the night before and store it in the refrigerator. The salmon can marinate for up to 2 hours, allowing flavors to deepen. However, avoid marinating too long, as the acidity may break down the fish's texture, making it mushy.

If you're cooking for a larger crowd, consider scaling this recipe. Each salmon fillet typically requires the same amount of marinade, so simply multiply the ingredients based on the number of fillets needed. Cooking in batches while keeping the first batch warm in a low-temperature oven (around 200°F) allows for serving a hot meal without stress.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover teriyaki salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the quality, reheat it gently using a microwave, covering it to prevent drying out. Alternatively, reheating in a skillet on low heat can help retain its crispy exterior. Always take care not to overheat, as this can lead to a dry texture.

If you have a larger quantity, freezing is a viable option as well. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned. This method preserves both the flavor and texture, making for a quick meal option later on.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with other fish like cod or halibut, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is teriyaki sauce gluten-free?

Traditional soy sauce contains gluten, but you can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute.

→ How do I store leftover teriyaki salmon?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the salmon ahead of time and cook it when you're ready to serve.