Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening); Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon because it's not only quick but bursting with flavor. The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce complements the rich salmon, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion. When I'm short on time but still want to impress, this recipe is my go-to. The best part? It requires minimal ingredients but delivers maximum taste. I often serve it over steamed rice and with a side of vegetables for a well-rounded meal. It's truly a delightful dish that never fails to please my family.

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-26T21:33:34.279Z

When I first discovered how easy it is to make teriyaki sauce from scratch, I was hooked! I remember experimenting with various ratios of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar until I landed on the perfect balance. This homemade sauce not only elevates the salmon but also adds a personal touch to the dish that store-bought variants just can't match.

Another tip I learned is to marinate the salmon for a short period. Just 15 minutes makes a world of difference in flavor. The salmon absorbs all the deliciousness, creating a dish that is both tender and satisfying. Trust me, you'll be making this more often than you think!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory teriyaki glaze that's easy to make
Healthy salmon packed with Omega-3 fatty acids
Quick prep time for a weeknight dinner

      

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

The teriyaki sauce is the star of this dish, and its balance of sweet and savory notes is inspired by traditional Japanese cuisine. The combination of soy sauce and mirin creates a deep umami flavor, while the brown sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness. Always taste the sauce while cooking to adjust the sweetness or saltiness according to your preference; a dash more soy sauce can amplify the savory notes, while additional sugar can enhance the sweet profile.

Don’t forget to constantly stir the sauce as it simmers to prevent it from sticking or burning. The addition of cornstarch mixed with water is crucial for achieving a glossy, thick texture that clings beautifully to the salmon. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can simply add a tablespoon of water to loosen it up, keeping in mind that it will thicken again when cooled.

Perfecting the Salmon

Choosing the right salmon is essential for a delightful texture. Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets that are bright in color, with firm flesh that bounces back when pressed. I usually prefer skin-on fillets as the skin becomes deliciously crispy when seared. If you only have skinless salmon, you can still achieve great results by adjusting cooking times slightly to ensure it doesn’t dry out.

To achieve perfectly cooked salmon, sear it without moving it for the first 3-4 minutes, allowing a golden crust to form. Flip the fillets gently using a spatula and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes. The fish should flake easily with a fork but still have a moist, tender texture. Aim for an internal temperature of about 125°F (51°C) for medium-rare, as it will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the heat.

Serving Suggestions

Serving the teriyaki salmon over steamed rice is a classic choice that complements the dish beautifully. I love using jasmine or sushi rice for their slightly sticky texture, which captures the sauce. To elevate the meal, consider adding a side of stir-fried seasonal vegetables like bok choy, snap peas, or bell peppers, which bring vibrant color and crunch to the plate.

For a twist, you can also serve the salmon on a bed of quinoa or cauliflower rice for a health-conscious alternative. Topping the dish with freshly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the overall flavor profile with a hint of crunch. If you're feeling adventurous, try a sprinkle of furikake, a Japanese seasoning blend, to give an extra layer of taste.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a flavorful teriyaki salmon.

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Once you've gathered all the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

These steps will guide you to a delicious teriyaki salmon dish.

Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl and add it to the saucepan.

Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour half of the teriyaki sauce over them. Let them marinate for about 15 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

In a hot skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and sear the marinated salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.

Serve

Plate the salmon and drizzle with the remaining teriyaki sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and homemade Japanese teriyaki salmon!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some chili flakes to the sauce or serve with steamed broccoli for a complete meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the teriyaki sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights, allowing you to whip up this dish even faster when you're ready to cook the salmon.

If you have leftover salmon, store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain its moisture, adding a splash of water or a drizzle of fresh teriyaki sauce to help keep it from drying out.

Dietary Adaptations

For a gluten-free version, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, both of which provide a similar depth of flavor without gluten. This will not only accommodate gluten-free diets but also preserve the integrity of the teriyaki profile you aim for in this dish.

If you're looking for a lower-calorie option, consider using less sugar in the sauce and adding natural sweetness with ingredients like pureed pineapple or finely grated carrots. These can achieve a lovely balance in flavor while cutting down on refined sugars.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with different flavor notes by adding spices to the marinade. A touch of sriracha or red pepper flakes can introduce a spicy kick, while a splash of citrus juice, like lime or orange, can brighten the flavors and add a fresh twist to the teriyaki glaze.

You can also vary the protein by substituting chicken breasts or tofu for the salmon. Just ensure to adjust cooking times accordingly; chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and tofu should be pressed and cooked until golden and crispy for the best texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just be sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

→ What if I don't have mirin?

You can substitute mirin with a mixture of sake and sugar, or use apple cider vinegar for a different flavor.

→ Can I make the teriyaki sauce in advance?

Absolutely! The teriyaki sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ What side dishes pair well with teriyaki salmon?

Steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or even a fresh salad make great accompaniments.