Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1/3 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped (for garnish); Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Highlighted under: World Kitchen Heritage

When I first tried making teriyaki salmon at home, I was blown away by how easy it was to recreate that savory-sweet flavor we all love. The combination of soy sauce, mirin, and a touch of honey transforms the salmon into a delectable dish that transports you straight to Japan. I discovered that marinating the salmon for just 30 minutes makes all the difference, infusing it with flavor that's simply irresistible. Served with steamed rice and fresh vegetables, this dish has become a weeknight favorite in my household.

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:07:34.662Z

One of my favorite moments in the kitchen was the first time I marinated salmon in homemade teriyaki sauce. The rich aroma of the soy sauce mingled with ginger and garlic filled my home, making it feel like a cozy Japanese restaurant. I learned that using fresh ingredients truly elevates the dish, especially when it comes to the ginger and scallions. They add a brightness that balances the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce.

As I watched the salmon grill, I was thrilled at how the glaze caramelized perfectly, creating a beautiful glossy finish. It was a reminder that sometimes, a few simple steps can yield extraordinary results. Pairing the salmon with jasmine rice soaked in a bit of rice vinegar completed the meal and brought everything together beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The vibrant flavors of homemade teriyaki sauce that can’t be matched.
Succulent salmon, perfectly flaky and tender, cooked to perfection.
Quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for entertaining.

Understanding Teriyaki Ingredients

The key to achieving authentic teriyaki flavor lies in the balance of ingredients used for the marinade. Soy sauce provides the salty backbone, while mirin adds a delicate sweetness and depth. Honey further enriches the sauce, making it glossy and giving it a complex flavor profile. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, so substituting them may alter the final taste. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, tamari can be used instead of regular soy sauce without compromising the dish's character.

Grated ginger and minced garlic not only enhance the aroma but also add a fresh zest to the marinade. Fresh ingredients like these elevate the teriyaki sauce, making it vibrant. If you’re short on time, you could use pre-minced garlic and ginger, but freshly grated ones create a more pronounced flavor that complements the richness of salmon beautifully.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Salmon

When cooking salmon, achieving a flaky texture combined with a perfectly caramelized exterior is essential. Preheat your skillet sufficiently before adding the salmon; a medium heat is recommended to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers lightly. If using skin-on fillets, start cooking skin-side down to render fat and crisp the skin. Flip the salmon gently to ensure it remains intact while cooking.

Cook the salmon until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, which typically takes about 4-5 minutes per side. Visual cues, such as a slight opacity at the thickest part of the fillet, indicate doneness. If you prefer a more medium finish, aim for a slightly lower temperature for a tender outcome. If any unsightly white protein begins to seep out, reduce the heat slightly or shorten cooking time.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Teriyaki Salmon

For the Teriyaki Marinade

1/3 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon grated ginger
2 garlic cloves, minced

For the Salmon

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

Make sure you have fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor.

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well combined.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the teriyaki marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Remove salmon from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and add to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through.

Thicken the Marinade

While the salmon is cooking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and let it simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.

Serve

Plate the salmon, drizzle with the thickened teriyaki sauce, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or fluffy rice.

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use fresh ginger and garlic. A squeeze of lime juice just before serving adds a nice brightness to the dish.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to save time on a busy weeknight, marinate the salmon in the teriyaki mixture the night before. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the fish, enhancing its taste. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Alternatively, you can prepare a double batch of the teriyaki sauce and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. This way, you always have a flavorful marinade ready to go for any protein or even vegetables. Simply reheat it on the stovetop until warmed through before using.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this teriyaki salmon with steamed rice is a classic choice, but consider enhancing your meal with picks like quinoa or cauliflower rice for a nutritious twist. Adding a side of stir-fried vegetables such as bok choy or snap peas not only boosts the color of your plate but also brings additional crunch and nutrients that balance the rich salmon.

For an extra pop of flavor, serve with a wedge of lime or lemon; the acidity brightens the dish and cuts through the salmon's richness. If you're feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of furikake or a side of seaweed salad can elevate the meal to a new level, providing those authentic Japanese dining vibes right in your kitchen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with trout or chicken, but cooking times may vary.

→ How long can I marinate the salmon?

You can marinate the salmon for up to 2 hours, but 30 minutes is ideal for flavor.

→ Is teriyaki sauce gluten-free?

Traditional teriyaki sauce contains soy sauce, which is not gluten-free. You can use tamari as a gluten-free alternative.

→ Can I make the teriyaki sauce in advance?

Absolutely! The sauce can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.