Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons mirin; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Highlighted under: Global Kitchen Magic

I am thrilled to share my take on a classic Japanese dish: Teriyaki Salmon! The combination of sweet and savory flavors transforms an already delightful fish into something truly special. Every time I make this dish, I am reminded of the delicious meals I’ve enjoyed at my favorite Japanese restaurants. It’s an incredibly simple recipe, yet it delivers a stunning presentation and taste that wows family and friends alike. I love pairing it with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete, vibrant meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:13:34.636Z

Making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon has been one of my favorite culinary adventures. The moment I poured the homemade teriyaki sauce over the salmon, I could almost hear the sizzle as it hit the hot pan. It’s essential to use fresh salmon, as its natural oils complement the sauce beautifully. I recommend marinating the fish for about 10 minutes before cooking to allow those flavors to really seep in.

What I’ve found most pivotal in this recipe is the cooking time. Salmon is best when it’s flaky but still moist on the inside. If you follow the timing closely, you’ll achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture that leaves everyone asking for more. Plus, serving it with a sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory teriyaki sauce that enhances the salmon flavor
Quick and easy preparation makes it perfect for weeknight dinners
Healthy and nutritious, packed with Omega-3 fatty acids
Beautiful presentation that impresses guests

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

Teriyaki sauce is a cornerstone of this dish, offering a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. The combination of soy sauce, mirin, and honey creates a deep umami profile that beautifully complements the rich salmon. Mirin, a Japanese rice wine, adds a unique sweetness and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor. If you can't find mirin, a mixture of sake and sugar can serve as an excellent substitute, maintaining the dish's authentic taste.

The addition of fresh garlic and ginger not only elevates the teriyaki sauce but also brings a layer of freshness. When you're simmering the sauce, aim for a glossy appearance as it thickens. Be mindful not to overcook it; if it reduces too much, the flavor could become overly concentrated and salty. Adjusting the proportions of honey or mirin can help you achieve your desired sweetness.

Mastering the Salmon Cooking Technique

Cooking salmon can sometimes be tricky, but mastering the technique ensures that your fish is flaky and moist. When you first place the salmon in the skillet, start by cooking it skin-side down. This not only protects the delicate flesh but also helps in rendering out some of the fat for added flavor. Keep an eye on the thickness of your fillets; cooking might vary. Aim for about 4–5 minutes before flipping, watching for a golden color on the edges.

After flipping the salmon, adding the teriyaki sauce introduces moisture and additional flavor. As the sauce begins to bubble, it’s important to spoon some of it over the fillets repeatedly to infuse the salmon while it continues to cook. This step helps the fish absorb flavors and prevents it from drying out. The salmon should be fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork but retains a slight translucency in the center for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

When it comes to serving the Teriyaki Salmon, I love pairing it with steamed rice and a colorful mix of seasonal vegetables. The rice acts as a neutral base that absorbs any extra teriyaki sauce, enhancing the overall meal. For a vibrant presentation, consider garnishing with finely chopped green onions or fresh cilantro, which can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

For those looking to switch it up, try substituting the salmon with chicken or tofu for a similar flavor profile. Adjust the cooking times accordingly—chicken will naturally require a longer simmer, while tofu can absorb the teriyaki sauce beautifully, creating an equally satisfying dish. Additionally, experimenting with grilled or broiled salmon can impart a smoky depth that pairs wonderfully with the sauce.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

For the Salmon

2 salmon fillets
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish

For the Teriyaki Sauce

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons mirin
2 tablespoons honey
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Prepare your ingredients beforehand for a smoother cooking experience!

Instructions

How to Make Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, add the cornstarch and water mixture, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.

Cook the Salmon

Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the salmon skin-side down and cook for about 4–5 minutes. Carefully flip the fillets and pour the teriyaki sauce over the top. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, spooning the sauce over the salmon.

Serve

Once cooked, transfer the salmon to a plate, drizzle with any remaining sauce, and sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Serve immediately with steamed rice and vegetables.

Enjoy this delicious dish with family or friends!

Pro Tips

For a touch of heat, add a splash of sriracha to your teriyaki sauce. Also, using fresh ingredients, especially garlic and ginger, makes a significant difference in flavor.

Storage Tips

To ensure your Teriyaki Salmon stays fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to separate the salmon from the rice if there are any leftovers to maintain their textures. When reheating, use the stovetop over low heat to gently warm the salmon, adding a splash of water or additional teriyaki sauce to prevent dryness.

If you want to prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance, it can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat gently on the stove before using it again. This approach not only saves time on a busy night but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully over time.

Quick Tips for a Perfect Dish

One tip I swear by is to always taste the teriyaki sauce before you finish cooking the salmon. This allows you to adjust sweetness or saltiness according to your palate. If it feels too salty, adding a bit more honey can balance it. Alternatively, if the sauce is too sweet, a splash of soy sauce can help cut through that sweetness effectively.

For those who prefer a slightly charred flavor, trying a broiler instead of a skillet can yield fantastic results. Placing the salmon on a baking sheet and broiling for about 5-7 minutes while basting with teriyaki sauce can achieve that caramelized exterior that many appreciate in grilled dishes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the salmon with another fish?

Yes, you can use other firm fish like trout or even chicken breasts if you prefer.

→ How long can I store leftover teriyaki sauce?

Homemade teriyaki sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, or you can freeze it for longer storage.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.

→ What vegetables pair well with teriyaki salmon?

Steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy are wonderful complements to the salmon.