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: 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons sake; 2 tablespoons mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 clove garlic, minced; 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Sesame seeds (for garnish); Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Exotic Inspirations

I absolutely love making this Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home. The rich umami flavors and the sticky glaze uniquely complement the tender salmon, transforming a simple meal into something extraordinary. The ingredients come together in just a few minutes, allowing me to whip up an impressive dinner even after a long day. Whether I'm serving it to friends or family, I know they will be as enchanted by its taste and presentation as I am. It's a delightful fusion that I can't wait for you to try!

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:19:34.493Z

Preparing this teriyaki salmon is an experience I cherish every time. I start by marinating the salmon in a homemade teriyaki sauce, made with soy sauce, sake, and mirin, which infuses the fish with incredible flavor. The key is to let it rest for at least 15 minutes to let the marinade do its magic, ensuring each bite is bursting with taste.

What I love most about cooking this dish is how quickly it comes together. I sear the salmon skin-side down for that perfect crispy exterior and finish it off with a glaze that caramelizes beautifully. This method not only seals in moisture but also adds a delightful texture contrast that I find irresistible!

You'll Love This Because
Aromatic teriyaki sauce that's both sweet and savory
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Perfectly cooked salmon that melts in your mouth

Mastering the Teriyaki Sauce

The heart of this dish lies in the teriyaki sauce, where the combination of soy sauce, sake, and mirin creates that irresistible umami flavor. Sake adds a depth that counterbalances the sweetness from brown sugar, while mirin contributes a slight tang that brightens the overall profile. When simmering, be sure to stir continuously to prevent the sugar from burning, which can lead to a bitter taste instead of a rich glaze.

An interesting tip is that the teriyaki sauce can be adjusted to your taste preferences. If you desire a bolder flavor, consider adding a splash more soy sauce or an extra teaspoon of ginger for spice. Alternatively, you can use a sugar substitute if you're looking to reduce calories or adjust for dietary concerns; just be aware that the texture and sweetness might differ slightly.

Perfectly Cooked Salmon

For the salmon to turn out perfectly, pay attention to your cooking temperature. Medium-high heat allows the skin to crisp up nicely while ensuring the fish remains tender and moist inside. Begin cooking skin-side down for the first portion of the time, using a spatula to gently press down on the fillets to prevent them from curling. A perfect cook should leave you with beautifully golden edges and a glossy appearance on the side facing the skillet.

If you prefer your salmon medium-rare, cook it until the internal temperature reaches around 125°F (52°C) before letting it rest for a few minutes off the heat. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing the flavor and ensuring each bite melts in your mouth. For a fun twist, consider adding a hint of citrus zest to your teriyaki sauce before marinating the salmon—it adds a refreshing brightness that pairs wonderfully with the savory glaze.

Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Sauce

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sake
2 tablespoons mirin
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 clove garlic, minced

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Preparation

Steps

Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, sake, mirin, brown sugar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Marinate the Salmon

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

Cook the Salmon

Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated salmon fillets, skin-side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, brushing with more teriyaki sauce as desired.

Serve

Transfer the salmon to plates, drizzle with remaining sauce, and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Enjoy!

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

Make sure to keep an eye on the salmon while cooking to prevent overcooking. A meat thermometer can help you confirm it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for perfect results.

Serving Suggestions

This Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon pairs beautifully with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables, creating a well-rounded meal. For a fresh element, you can also serve it alongside a crunchy cucumber salad or pickled vegetables, which balances the rich flavors of the salmon. If entertaining guests, consider serving it with small bowls of the teriyaki sauce on the side for dipping—this adds an interactive touch to your dining experience.

If you're looking to elevate the presentation, try plating the salmon atop a bed of rice and garnishing it with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions just before serving. A drizzle of teriyaki sauce on the plate can also create visual appeal. This not only enhances the flavor but makes for an impressive presentation that’s sure to delight your guests.

Make-Ahead Tips

The beauty of this teriyaki salmon recipe lies in its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance—just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This way, you can have a quick and flavorful meal ready to go on a busy weeknight. When it's time to cook, simply marinate the salmon with the pre-made sauce for at least 15 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor penetration.

When it comes to leftovers, the teriyaki salmon actually reheats well. Store any remaining fillets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, brushing with a bit more teriyaki sauce to maintain moisture. This way, you'll enjoy delicious, succulent salmon even on your busiest days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of salmon?

Yes, you can substitute chicken. Just ensure it's fully cooked through as chicken requires a longer cooking time.

→ What can I serve with teriyaki salmon?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

→ How long does the teriyaki sauce last?

Homemade teriyaki sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.