Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 tablespoon minced ginger; 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Cuisines Without Borders

I love preparing Japanese Teriyaki Salmon because it’s both flavorful and easy to make. The balance of sweet and savory in the marinade elevates the natural taste of the salmon, and I often enjoy serving it with a side of steamed rice and vegetables. It’s a dish that captures the essence of Japanese cuisine while being achievable in my own kitchen. In just a few steps, I can create a restaurant-quality meal that impresses my family and friends.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-26T22:53:34.383Z

When I first experimented with Japanese Teriyaki Salmon, I was amazed by how such simple ingredients could create complex flavors. I marinated the salmon for just 20 minutes, allowing the soy sauce, mirin, and sugar to work their magic. The caramelization that happened during cooking gave the fish a beautiful glaze that was not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor.

One tip I learned through practice is to use low-sodium soy sauce to balance the sweetness of the marinade. This way, you can enjoy the full depth of flavors without overwhelming saltiness. It’s a small adjustment that makes a big difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors
Quick to prepare, ready in just 25 minutes
Healthy and nutritious, perfect for weeknight dinners

Understanding the Marinade

The teriyaki marinade is the heart of this dish, providing a sweet and savory flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the salmon. The combination of soy sauce and mirin contributes umami depth, while the brown sugar balances the saltiness with a hint of caramelization. I always ensure to whisk the marinade thoroughly until the sugar fully dissolves, which creates a smooth blend that adheres nicely to the fish during cooking.

It's important to marinate the salmon for at least 20 minutes, but if you have the time, letting it sit for up to an hour can intensify the flavors. The acidity in the marinade helps to tenderize the salmon, ensuring that the fillets remain juicy. If you're short on mirin, a combination of sake and sugar can make a great substitute.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Salmon

When cooking the salmon, I recommend using a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and to achieve that beautiful, golden-brown crust. Pre-heating the skillet over medium heat allows the fish to cook evenly without drying out. I typically place the salmon skin-side down first; this protects the delicate flesh from overcooking. Look for a natural opaque color in the fish as a visual cue that it's cooking through, usually taking about 5-6 minutes on each side.

During the last minute of cooking, glazing the salmon with the leftover marinade enhances its shine and flavor. Just be cautious, as the sugars can caramelize quickly and burn. If you notice the glaze getting too dark, lower the heat or reduce the cooking time slightly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare the Japanese Teriyaki Salmon:

For the Teriyaki Marinade

1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Ensure everything is measured and ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious Teriyaki Salmon:

Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger until the sugar dissolves.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 20 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for about 5-6 minutes. Carefully flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes until cooked through.

Glaze the Salmon

During the last minute of cooking, spoon some of the leftover marinade over the salmon to glaze it.

Serve

Remove the salmon from the skillet and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve with steamed rice and vegetables.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can add some steamed broccoli or snap peas on the side for added nutrition and color.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your teriyaki salmon alongside steamed rice, which perfectly soaks up the savory glaze. Pairing it with a side of stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli or snap peas not only adds color to your plate but also provides a healthy crunch. You can also sprinkle a few toasted sesame seeds for a nutty finish and additional texture.

If you want to elevate your presentation, consider serving the dish on a bed of greens, like spinach or arugula. A sprinkle of finely chopped green onions adds freshness and a pop of color. This simple addition enhances both the aesthetic and flavor profile of your meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the dish, but be careful not to overheat it when reheating. I recommend microwaving it at medium power, covering it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist, and heating in short bursts to avoid drying out the fish.

For meal prep enthusiasts, this teriyaki salmon can be made in advance and frozen. Just ensure it's well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. When ready to indulge, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating; this method preserves the texture and flavor, ensuring it's almost as delightful as when freshly cooked.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can use other firm fish like trout or halibut as a substitute for salmon.

→ How long can I marinate the salmon?

You can marinate the salmon for a maximum of 1 hour, but 20 minutes is ideal for flavor without overdoing it.

→ What sides pair well with Teriyaki Salmon?

Steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad make excellent sides.

→ Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.