Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 2 green onions, sliced for garnish; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: International Family Recipes

Whenever I make Japanese Teriyaki Salmon, I’m transported to the streets of Tokyo with its smoky, sweet aroma filling my kitchen. This recipe has become a staple in my home, not only for its rich flavors but also for the ease with which it comes together. The combination of soy sauce, mirin, and sesame oil strikes a perfect balance that elevates the naturally delicious salmon. Plus, in just 30 minutes, I can serve a dish that impresses family and friends alike! Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to make it a regular!

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-26T22:41:34.524Z

My love for salmon has always been strong, but discovering teriyaki sauce took it to a whole new level. On a quest to make a dish that felt both comforting and exotic, I combined classic Japanese flavors and techniques that allowed the salmon's rich taste to shine through. The result? A succulent, flavorful dish that truly bursts with umami.

One evening, I decided to grill the salmon for an added depth of flavor, which made this dish even more special. Pairing it with a side of steamed rice and sautéed vegetables transforms a simple meal into a culinary experience. Don't skip the garnishing – a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions adds not just flair but extra flavor.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, smoky flavors in every bite
Quick and easy preparation for busy nights
Perfectly balanced sweet and savory notes
Great for weeknight dinners or special occasions

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this teriyaki salmon dish is undoubtedly the salmon itself. When selecting salmon fillets, opt for fresh, high-quality fish with vibrant color and firm texture. Avoid fish that appears dull or has an overly strong fishy smell. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using skinless fillets or substituting with trout or sea bass, which can hold the marinade flavors well.

Mirin, a sweet rice wine, is essential for achieving the authentic taste of this dish. If you cannot find mirin, you can substitute with a mixture of sake and sugar or a splash of white wine with a bit of sugar. Just remember to adjust the quantity of honey in the recipe accordingly, as this will affect the overall sweetness of the dish.

Perfect Cooking Technique

When it comes to cooking the salmon, using a medium-high heat is crucial for achieving a slight char on the outside while keeping the inside moist and tender. If you're grilling, brush the grill with a bit of oil to prevent sticking and maintain those beautiful grill marks. Alternatively, using a non-stick skillet can also provide a great surface for cooking the salmon without losing any flavor.

When flipping the salmon, wait for about 4-5 minutes so the skin crisps up nicely. If you attempt to flip it too early, you risk the skin tearing or sticking to the pan. As you brush the salmon with the reserved marinade during cooking, this step builds layers of flavor and ensures a glossy, appetizing finish.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

For an impressive presentation, serve your teriyaki salmon over a bed of steamed jasmine or sticky rice, which soaks up the savory sauce beautifully. A side of sautéed vegetables, such as bok choy or snap peas, not only complements the dish but adds a colorful touch to your plate. Drizzling a bit of extra teriyaki sauce over the rice brings the entire dish together and enhances the flavor profile.

This dish also lends itself well to meal prepping. You can prepare the teriyaki sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Marinating the salmon a day in advance can intensify the flavors even further. Leftover salmon can be flaked and used in salads or sandwiches the next day, making it a versatile choice for any meal.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your teriyaki salmon:

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Sesame seeds for garnish

Ensure everything is prepared before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your teriyaki salmon:

Make the Teriyaki Sauce

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

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the teriyaki sauce over them. Allow them to marinate for at least 15 minutes in the refrigerator.

Cook the Salmon

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade, reserving the sauce. Cook the salmon skin-side down for about 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, brushing with the reserved marinade.

Garnish and Serve

Once cooked through, plate the salmon and finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Enjoy your delicious teriyaki salmon with rice or vegetables!

Pro Tips

For an ultimate flavor boost, grill the salmon on cedar planks. Soaking the planks in water for at least an hour before grilling infuses a smoky aroma that pairs perfectly with the teriyaki glaze.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to help retain moisture. Avoid reheating in the microwave as this can dry out the fish.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the marinated salmon before cooking. Place the fillets along with the marinade in a freezer-safe bag, and it will keep well for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for a quick and easy meal.

Variation Ideas

Make this dish your own by experimenting with different proteins. Chicken thighs can absorb the marinade well and offer a different flavor profile, while tofu is a great vegetarian alternative that also soaks up the teriyaki sauce beautifully. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as chicken will take longer than salmon or tofu.

You can also enhance the dish with various garnishes, such as sliced chili for heat or shredded carrots for crunch. Adding a sprinkle of furikake, a Japanese seasoning blend, just before serving could elevate the dish even more, providing a delightful umami kick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish?

Absolutely! This sauce works well with seabass, tilapia, or even chicken.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the salmon a few hours ahead of cooking to deepen the flavors.

→ What should I serve with teriyaki salmon?

It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad.