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: 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon mirin; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon water; 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Treats

I absolutely love preparing Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon for dinner. It’s a delightful dish that combines the rich sweetness of teriyaki sauce with the succulent texture of salmon. Not only is it quick to make, but the flavors are incredibly satisfying. I often serve it alongside steamed rice and vegetables, making it a complete meal. Cooking this dish allows me to share a bit of Japanese cuisine with my family, and everyone enjoys the burst of flavor in every bite. It's a wonderful way to bring a taste of Japan to my home kitchen.

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:29:34.639Z

In my quest to perfect Japanese teriyaki salmon, I experimented with various marinades and cooking times. The key to achieving a beautifully glazed finish lies in the simmering process. By letting the teriyaki sauce reduce and thicken slightly, it clings to the fish, creating a wonderful shine and depth of flavor. I’ve had my family raving about how the sweet and savory notes dance together, making it a memorable dish.

One of my favorite details about this recipe is that you can easily customize the teriyaki sauce to suit your preferences. I often add a touch of fresh ginger or garlic for extra flavor. Pairing it with some quick-pickled vegetables on the side amplifies the dish, ensuring each bite feels like a mini adventure in taste. It's truly a delight that I love to share!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, sweet-savory teriyaki glaze that enhances the salmon's natural flavors.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthful omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, making it both indulgent and nutritious.

      

Understanding the Teriyaki Sauce

The teriyaki sauce is the star of this dish, providing both flavor and shine. The combination of soy sauce and brown sugar creates a beautiful balance between salty and sweet, while the rice vinegar adds a hint of acidity that brightens the dish. Mirin, a type of sweet rice wine, enhances the umami profile of the sauce. Make sure to adjust the sweetness to your preference; if you like it sweeter, add a touch more brown sugar or reduce the soy sauce slightly.

When thickening the sauce, ensure that you allow it to simmer until it starts to coat the back of a spoon. This process intensifies the flavors and provides that glossy finish that is characteristic of a good teriyaki. If your sauce doesn’t thicken as expected, let it simmer a bit longer or add a touch more cornstarch slurry, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. This technique will help you achieve a rich glaze that clings beautifully to the salmon.

Perfecting the Salmon Cook

Cooking the salmon correctly is crucial for achieving a tender, flaky texture. Start by heating the vegetable oil until shimmering but not smoking—medium-high heat is key for a nice sear. Place the salmon skin-side down, and resist the urge to move it around; this allows for a crisp skin that adds great texture. After about 4-5 minutes, gently flip the fillets while being careful not to break them, and baste immediately with teriyaki sauce to infuse flavor.

Keep an eye on the salmon color as it cooks. The flesh should transition from translucent to opaque. Depending on the thickness of your fillets, adjust the cooking time—thicker cuts may need an extra minute or two. I recommend using a fork to test if it's flaky; if it easily flakes apart, it's ready to be removed from the skillet. This technique ensures perfectly cooked salmon every time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create this delicious teriyaki salmon.

For the Teriyaki Sauce

1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon mirin
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon water

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients come together to create a deliciously balanced dish.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a perfect teriyaki salmon.

Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and mirin. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce.

Cook until thickened, about 2 minutes, and set aside.

Cook the Salmon

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin-side down. Cook for 4-5 minutes, then flip the fillets and pour half of the teriyaki sauce over them.

Cook for another 3-4 minutes, basting with the sauce.

Serve

Remove the salmon from the skillet and serve it drizzled with the remaining teriyaki sauce. Sprinkle sesame seeds and garnish with green onions.

Enjoy your flavorful Japanese teriyaki salmon!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the salmon in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. This will enhance the taste even more.

Serving Suggestions

This teriyaki salmon pairs exceptionally well with steamed jasmine or basmati rice, as these grains soak up the luscious sauce beautifully. For a nutrient boost, consider serving it alongside a variety of veggies like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas that can be quickly tossed into the same skillet for a one-pan meal. You can also garnish with additional sesame seeds and even a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick if desired.

For added variety, you might try serving your salmon over a warm noodle salad or in a lettuce wrap for a lighter dish. Top it off with a sprinkle of furikake seasoning, a Japanese rice seasoning mix, for added flavor and texture. Each of these options not only complements the teriyaki flavor but also transforms the meal into a stunning presentation.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the teriyaki sauce ahead of time to save some time on busy weeknights. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a quick stir before using, as it may separate while sitting. You can also marinate the salmon in the sauce for about 30 minutes before cooking for more intense flavor, but avoid over-marinating as the acid can break down the fish too much, resulting in a mushy texture.

If you have leftovers, store the salmon in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra teriyaki sauce to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the salmon dry and tough. This makes the dish not only quick to prepare but also great for meal prep!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, you can use other fish like tuna or tilapia, though cooking times may vary.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the salmon with tofu or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ What should I serve with teriyaki salmon?

I recommend serving it over rice or quinoa, along with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.