Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)

Highlighted under: Flavors of the Continents

I absolutely love preparing Japanese Teriyaki Salmon because it brings a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance to any meal. The combination of sweet and savory with a hint of umami makes it irresistible. I’m always amazed at how simple it is to create this dish at home, using just a few key ingredients. The rich glaze caramelizes beautifully during cooking, giving the salmon a delightful sheen. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a special gathering, and it pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and vegetables.

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-01-26T22:57:34.591Z

When I first tried making teriyaki at home, I was surprised at how easily I could replicate the flavors I loved from my favorite Japanese restaurants. The key is in balancing the soy sauce, mirin, and sugar to achieve that perfect savory-sweet harmony. After a few tries, I found a method that consistently delivers an irresistible glaze, making each piece of salmon taste restaurant-quality.

One specific technique I learned is to sear the salmon skin-side down first. This not only locks in moisture but also gives the skin a crispy texture that elevates the dish. Adding some sesame seeds and green onions on top right before serving gives it a beautiful finish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistible sweet and savory flavor combination
Quick cooking method for a weeknight dinner
Rich, caramelized glaze that enhances the salmon
Garnished with sesame and green onions for extra flair

      

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

The teriyaki sauce is the star of this dish, balancing sweetness from brown sugar and depth from soy sauce and mirin. Mirin, a sweet rice wine, adds a unique flavor profile that distinguishes teriyaki from other sauces. If you don't have mirin, try a blend of sake and sugar for a similar effect, but remember to adjust the sugar to match the sweetness level you're aiming for.

Ginger and garlic are crucial in the teriyaki sauce for adding aromatic warmth. Grating fresh ginger instead of using powdered gives a more vibrant taste that infuses into the sauce. For those sensitive to garlic, you can reduce the amount or omit it, but I find that the garlic really rounds out the overall flavor and not using it may dull the dish.

Perfecting the Salmon Fillets

Choosing salmon that's bright and oily ensures the best flavor and texture. Look for fillets with a firm texture and a vibrant color, avoiding any that appear dull or dry. If you're using frozen salmon, let it thaw in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours to maintain its quality before cooking. This method prevents moisture loss and keeps the fish succulent.

The skin of the salmon is not just for show; it helps protect the flesh from drying out during cooking. Searing the skin until crispy not only enhances texture but also adds flavor. If you notice your fillets stick to the skillet, ensure it's adequately heated and lightly oiled before adding the fish, which creates a nicely caramelized exterior.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start cooking.

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Teriyaki Sauce

1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)

Make sure you have everything prepped and ready to go!

Steps

Follow these steps for a delicious teriyaki salmon!

Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes. If you desire a thicker consistency, mix in the cornstarch and water until smooth.

Sear the Salmon

Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin-side down in the skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes without moving them, until the skin is crispy.

Add the Sauce

Flip the salmon fillets carefully. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the salmon, letting it simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, basting the fillets with the sauce until cooked through.

Serve

Once cooked, remove the salmon from the pan and drizzle with additional sauce from the skillet. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Enjoy your home-cooked teriyaki salmon!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, let the salmon marinate in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. You can also serve it with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover teriyaki salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, adding a splash of water or teriyaki sauce to keep it moist. Avoid microwave reheating, which can dry out the fish.

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, consider marinating the salmon in teriyaki sauce for up to 30 minutes before cooking. This enhances flavor absorption while allowing you to have a quick meal ready on a busy night.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve this teriyaki salmon over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or quinoa, allowing the grains to soak up the delicious sauce. Accompany it with stir-fried or steamed vegetables such as broccoli or bok choy for a vibrant, nutritious plate.

You can also add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions right before serving for an extra crunch and visual appeal. A wedge of lime can also brighten the flavors, offering a tangy contrast to the richness of the salmon.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other fatty fish like mackerel or trout, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is teriyaki sauce gluten-free?

Traditional soy sauce contains gluten, but you can substitute with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I make the sauce in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just heat it up before using.