Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

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

Highlighted under: Taste of the Continents

I love to whip up this Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon whenever I want to indulge in something truly delightful. The combination of sweet and savory teriyaki glaze perfectly complements the rich, buttery texture of the salmon, creating a dish that evokes memories of my travels to Japan. In about 30 minutes, I can serve a restaurant-quality meal that tantalizes my taste buds and impresses my guests. Whether paired with steamed rice or a fresh salad, this recipe embodies comfort and culinary adventure in every bite.

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:07:34.537Z

When I first tried teriyaki salmon in a small restaurant in Tokyo, I was immediately captivated by the blend of flavors. After several attempts to recreate that dish at home, I discovered that marinating the salmon for even just a few minutes can make a world of difference. The sugar in the teriyaki sauce caramelizes beautifully during cooking, giving the fish that distinct glaze we all love.

One of my favorite tips is to broil the salmon for the last few minutes of cooking. This technique creates a slightly crispy exterior while maintaining a tender center. It’s that contrast in texture that elevates the dish from delicious to extraordinary!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and savory teriyaki glaze that enhances the salmon's natural flavor
Simple ingredients that create a sophisticated dish for entertaining
Quick preparation makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner

      

Understanding the Marinade

The marinade is the star of this dish, bringing a depth of flavor that makes the teriyaki salmon irresistible. Soy sauce adds umami, while mirin introduces sweetness and a touch of acidity, balancing the richness of the fish. The sugar helps caramelize the salmon during cooking, resulting in a beautifully glazed finish. For a twist, consider substituting honey or maple syrup for sugar; they will impart a unique sweetness that pairs well with the savory notes of soy.

Incorporating fresh ginger and garlic into the marinade enhances the complexity and brightness of the dish. The ginger provides a slight warmth while the garlic adds depth. If you're short on time, ginger powder and garlic powder can be used as substitutes, but fresh ingredients give the best flavor payoff. Allowing the salmon to marinate for at least 15 minutes enables the flavors to penetrate the fish, but for optimal results, aim for a longer marination of up to an hour.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

When cooking salmon, precision is key to achieving the ideal texture. Preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) ensures that the salmon cooks evenly and maintains its moisture. Keep an eye on the fish as it bakes; it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork, roughly 15-20 minutes depending on thickness. Using a digital meat thermometer, you can check for doneness—salmon is best served at an internal temperature of 125°F (51.7°C) for medium-rare.

The broiling step is optional, but it creates a delightful caramelization on top of the salmon, enhancing both appearance and flavor. Just remember to keep the oven door slightly ajar when broiling; this allows for better air circulation and helps prevent the salmon from overcooking. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the surface is golden and slightly crispy. Always watch closely, as it can go from beautiful to burnt quite quickly!

Ingredients for Teriyaki Salmon

For the Marinade

1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
Sesame seeds for garnish
Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until the sugar is dissolved.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place the marinated salmon on the sheet, skin side down. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Finish with Broiling

For an extra touch, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.

Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, and serve immediately.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For a more intense flavor, consider marinating the salmon for up to 1 hour. Just be cautious not to over-marinate, as the soy sauce can make the fish too salty.

Serving Suggestions

This teriyaki salmon pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or a fresh green salad. The rice soaks up the extra teriyaki glaze, enhancing its flavors while providing a satisfying base. For a lighter option, consider serving it over a bed of greens dressed with sesame vinaigrette or alongside grilled vegetables for a vibrant, colorful plate.

If you're entertaining, this dish can also be served family-style, allowing guests to help themselves. You could complement the meal with a simple miso soup or edamame on the side for a true taste of Japan—making the dinner not just a meal, but a culinary experience.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover teriyaki salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best texture, reheat it gently in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for about 10 minutes. This method helps to prevent the salmon from drying out, ensuring a tender result rather than a rubbery texture from the microwave.

For a make-ahead option, marinate the salmon up to 24 hours in advance. This allows the flavors to intensify even further. If freezing, wrap the marinated salmon tightly in cheesecloth or plastic wrap, and store it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to cook, you can bake straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, you can use other fatty fish like trout or even chicken if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

→ What can I serve with teriyaki salmon?

This dish pairs well with steamed jasmine rice, a fresh cucumber salad, or sautéed bok choy.