Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 4 salmon fillets; 2 green onions, chopped; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Worldly Favorites

I absolutely love making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes every bite like a delicious adventure. Just understanding how to balance the marinade is key; it transforms an ordinary piece of salmon into a gourmet meal. I appreciate how easy it is to prepare, yet the dish tastes like it came straight from a fine dining restaurant. This recipe has become a favorite in my household and a staple for gatherings due to its flavor and simplicity.

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:59:34.507Z

Once, I was struggling to find a quick yet impressive dinner option for friends visiting from out of town. I turned to my go-to Japanese Teriyaki Salmon recipe, which is a hit every time. The marinade is my secret weapon; with soy sauce, mirin, and ginger, it brings out the best in the salmon while keeping it moist. I love serving it with rice and steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Another time, I experimented with the marinating time, letting the salmon soak for an hour instead of the usual 30 minutes. The result? The flavors penetrated deeper, creating a sensational dish that my friends raved about. I recommend playing with the marinade—try adding a splash of sesame oil for a nutty touch!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory teriyaki sauce brings the salmon to life
A quick and easy dish perfect for weeknight dinners
Healthy and delicious, guaranteed to impress your guests

Mastering the Teriyaki Sauce

Understanding the balance of flavors in the teriyaki marinade is crucial for achieving that authentic taste. Using high-quality soy sauce and mirin not only boosts flavor but also enhances the glaze's richness. Mirin adds a natural sweetness and a slight tang that pairs beautifully with the salmon's natural oils. I recommend selecting a mirin that has minimal added sugars to get the best results without an overly sweet finish.

The ginger and garlic in the marinade are vital for depth. Freshly grated ginger releases essential oils that infuse the salmon with a fragrant zest, while minced garlic adds an aromatic and savory punch. If you're worried about biting into large pieces, make sure to mince them finely so they incorporate smoothly into the sauce. Letting the marinade rest for a few minutes can allow the flavors to meld, creating a more complex flavor profile.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Salmon

For optimal cooking, ensure your skillet is preheated on medium-high heat before adding the salmon; this helps achieve that desirable crispy skin. If you notice the skin sticking, carefully use a fish spatula to release it gently without tearing the salmon. Aim for about 4-5 minutes on the first side until the edges begin to turn golden and crispy, then flip cautiously to cook the other side. The color and texture are key indicators of doneness.

Brushing the salmon with the reserved marinade while cooking not only enhances the flavor but also creates a glossy finish. However, be careful not to let the salmon sit too long after flipping it, as overcooked salmon can become dry. The goal is to achieve a flaky texture while still retaining some moisture. An internal temperature around 145°F is ideal; you can check this using a cooking thermometer for precision.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

For the Teriyaki Marinade

1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
2 green onions, chopped
Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Teriyaki Salmon:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil until well combined.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and cook skin-side down for about 4-5 minutes. Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes, brushing with the reserved marinade.

Serve

Once cooked, remove the salmon from the skillet. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a touch of chili flakes to the marinade. You can also serve with jasmine rice or a fresh salad to complement the rich flavors of the salmon.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, serve the teriyaki salmon with a side of steamed rice or sautéed vegetables for a wholesome meal. For a burst of freshness, consider garnishing with additional green onions or a sprinkle of cilantro. You can also add a wedge of lime for squeezing over the top, providing a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

This salmon recipe pairs well with traditional Japanese sides like pickled ginger or a small cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar. For a unique twist, try serving it on a bed of quinoa, allowing the nutty texture to compliment the sweet-savory notes of the teriyaki.

Variations and Substitutions

If you're looking to substitute the salmon, many types of fish can work well with this teriyaki marinade. Chicken breast or thighs are excellent alternatives; just adjust cooking times, as chicken typically takes a bit longer. For a vegetarian option, tofu can absorb the marinade beautifully—be sure to press it first to remove excess moisture and allow better flavor penetration.

For those seeking a gluten-free version, tamari can be used in place of soy sauce, ensuring all flavors remain intact while accommodating dietary needs. Additionally, feel free to add different herbs or spices to the marinade; a touch of chopped cilantro or a pinch of red pepper flakes can provide an interesting kick that elevates the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating for best results.

→ How long should I marinate the salmon?

Marinate for at least 30 minutes; however, up to an hour enhances the flavor even more.

→ Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the teriyaki marinade in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

→ What sides go well with Teriyaki Salmon?

Steamed rice or sautéed vegetables are great pairings. You could also try it with a fresh salad.