Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Taste of Continents

I absolutely love making Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon on busy weeknights. The combination of the sweet and savory teriyaki glaze brings so much flavor to the salmon, making it an instant favorite in our household. After a long day, it's comforting to know that in just a few minutes, I can pull together a dish that feels both special and satisfying. Paired with steamed rice and vegetables, this meal feels like a little taste of Japan right at home, and it's so easy to prepare that even beginner cooks will shine.

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:13:34.930Z

When I first experimented with teriyaki sauce, I was amazed at how the soy sauce, mirin, and sugar harmonized so beautifully. The flavors meld so flawlessly that I knew I had stumbled upon a winner! I also learned that giving the salmon a quick marinate in the sauce enhances its richness and allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.

One of my favorite tips is to use fresh ginger and garlic in the glaze. Not only does it elevate the taste, but it also adds a wonderful fragrance that fills the kitchen. Cooking the salmon at high heat gives it a beautiful caramelization, bringing out the teriyaki sauce's sweet notes while keeping the fish moist. It's a truly delightful dish!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory flavor profile that captivates your palate
Quick cooking time perfect for busy evenings
Versatile dish that pairs well with various sides

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

The teriyaki glaze in this recipe combines soy sauce, mirin, and brown sugar to create a rich, flavorful sauce that is both sweet and savory. Soy sauce adds umami depth, while mirin introduces a hint of sweetness and acidity, resulting in a well-balanced profile. Using brown sugar enhances the caramelization process during cooking, creating a beautiful glaze on the salmon. For those seeking a lower-sodium option, tamari can be used as a gluten-free soy sauce alternative without sacrificing flavor.

This marinade works wonders for the salmon not only by infusing it with flavor but also by tenderizing the fish, thanks to the acidity in the mirin. Marinating for at least 10 minutes is crucial; however, for optimal flavor, consider extending it to 30 minutes or one hour. Just remember to keep it in the refrigerator to ensure food safety. This balance allows the salmon to absorb the marinade without becoming overly salty or mushy, ensuring it retains its flaky texture.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When cooking the salmon, using a non-stick skillet is highly recommended to prevent sticking and ensure the fish cooks evenly. Start by heating the sesame oil over medium-high heat until it glistens. This temperature is crucial as it allows the salmon to sear, forming a golden crust while preventing the skin from becoming too crispy. Cooking with the skin-side down first helps protect the delicate flesh and maintain moisture. If you notice the edges starting to brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly to ensure even cooking.

Basting with the leftover marinade during the second half of cooking not only enhances the flavor but also prevents the fish from drying out. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked salmon, which will be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If you find the fish is undercooked, simply cover the skillet for a minute or two to allow residual heat to finish the cooking process without overexposing it directly to heat.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Teriyaki Salmon Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)

Make sure everything is ready before you start cooking for the best results!

Instructions

Let's prepare this delicious teriyaki salmon:

Make the Marinade

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

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Heat sesame oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin-side down in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, basting with the leftover marinade.

Serve

Once cooked through, remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve over rice or with steamed vegetables.

Enjoy your flavorful Japanese teriyaki salmon!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try broiling the salmon for the last 2 minutes to achieve a caramelized finish. Adjust the sweetness of the sauce according to your preference by adding more or less brown sugar.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your teriyaki salmon with fluffy steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas complement the flavors beautifully and add a vibrant touch to the plate. Drizzling a bit more teriyaki sauce over the vegetables can create a cohesive flavor profile throughout your meal. I also enjoy adding sesame seeds for extra crunch and presentation.

For a refreshing finish, consider serving the dish with a side of pickled ginger or a light salad dressed with a soy vinaigrette. These elements balance the richness of the salmon, providing a delightful contrast that elevates the entire dining experience.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors will deepen as the salmon sits, making reheating an enjoyable experience. However, to prevent the fish from drying out, reheat gently in a non-stick skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or more marinade if necessary to maintain moisture.

For longer storage, freeze the cooked salmon, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating as mentioned above. This ensures that you can always have this delightful meal on hand, ready to provide that comforting taste of Japan any day of the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fish besides salmon?

Yes, you can use other firm fish like halibut or tuna for this teriyaki sauce.

→ Is there a substitute for mirin?

If you don’t have mirin, you can substitute it with a mixture of rice vinegar and sugar.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the salmon in advance and cook it just before serving.

→ Can I bake the salmon instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Place the marinated salmon in a baking dish and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes.