Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup sake; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Sesame seeds for garnish; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Dining Classics

I love whipping up this Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon whenever I want to indulge in something delicious and satisfying. The blend of sweet and savory teriyaki sauce coats the salmon perfectly, creating an unforgettable flavor experience. I find that marinating the salmon for at least 30 minutes really helps to infuse the flavors deeply. Served with fluffy rice and sautéed vegetables, this meal truly takes me on a culinary journey to Japan, no plane ticket required!

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:49:34.672Z

Every time I make this teriyaki salmon, I remember the first time I tried it in a cozy little Japanese restaurant. The balance of sweet and umami flavors captivated my taste buds, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. The key here is the teriyaki sauce, which I prepare from scratch using soy sauce, sake, and mirin for that authentic flavor.

Marinating the salmon is also crucial; it not only imbues the fish with rich flavors but also ensures a moist and tender texture. I like to add some sesame seeds for a delightful crunch right before serving to elevate the dish further!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory teriyaki sauce that elevates the salmon's flavor
Quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy weeknights
A delightful balance of flavors sure to impress friends and family

      

The Power of Marinades

Marinating the salmon not only infuses it with flavor but also helps to tenderize the fish, allowing the teriyaki sauce to penetrate deeply. The combination of soy sauce, sake, and mirin provides umami and sweetness, while the ginger and garlic add a fragrant punch. To ensure maximum flavor absorption, I recommend letting the salmon marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight will yield even better results if you have the time.

When marinating, always use a glass or plastic container rather than metal to prevent any chemical reactions that might affect the taste. Make sure the marinade fully covers the salmon fillets, as this promotes even flavor distribution. You can also save some marinade before adding the fish to use as a drizzle for the finished dish, after cooking it for safety.

Cooking to Perfection

Achieving the perfect texture for teriyaki salmon involves careful cooking. Start by heating the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring that the oil is hot enough that it shimmers but doesn’t smoke. This temperature allows for a nice caramelization, giving you a golden-brown crust that enhances the overall flavor. Aim for about 4-5 minutes of cooking per side; the fish should turn opaque and easily flake when done.

If you're concerned about overcooking, use a heat-resistant spatula to gently lift the edges of the salmon fillets to check for doneness. If the insides are still slightly translucent, it's not quite ready. Remember, residual heat will continue to cook the salmon once it's removed from the skillet, so it's better to slightly undercook than overdo it.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious teriyaki salmon masterpiece:

For the Teriyaki Marinade

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

For the Salmon

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

These ingredients combine to create a delightful meal everyone will love!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your teriyaki salmon:

Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sake, mirin, brown sugar, grated ginger, and minced garlic until the sugar is dissolved.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in.

Cook the Salmon

Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through and caramelized.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the salmon with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy with rice and your favorite vegetables.

Enjoy your homemade teriyaki salmon with sides of your choice!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, feel free to add a splash of citrus juice to the marinade or a drizzle of honey for sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

This teriyaki salmon pairs beautifully with a bowl of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice. The rice acts as a canvas that absorbs the rich teriyaki sauce, making every bite delicious. For a complete meal, accompany the salmon with sautéed vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas, which add vibrant color and crunch. Lightly steaming these veggies beforehand can ensure they retain their nutrients and structure, enhancing the dish.

For a fun twist, try serving the salmon in a lettuce wrap with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint. This not only adds freshness but also balances the richness of the salmon and sauce. A sprinkle of crushed peanuts or cashews can lend additional texture and flavor as well.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare ahead, marinate the salmon in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This can save time on busy weeknights when you need a quick meal. Once cooked, salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out.

For those looking to freeze the dish, keep in mind that while cooked salmon can be frozen, the texture might change slightly. To maintain quality, cool the salmon down quickly after cooking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to fully thaw and pat it dry before marinating.

→ Is there a substitute for sake?

You can use dry white wine or rice vinegar as a substitute, although the flavor will be slightly different.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I grill the salmon instead of pan-frying it?

Absolutely! Just be sure to watch the cooking time as grilling may cook the salmon faster.