Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 3 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons mirin; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish); Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Highlighted under: International Kitchen Creations

I absolutely love experimenting with different cuisines, and this Japanese Teriyaki Salmon has quickly become a favorite in our household. With its combination of sweet and savory flavors, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. I enjoy the method of marinating the salmon in a homemade teriyaki sauce, which infuses it with rich flavors that truly elevate the dish. Whether served with rice or steamed vegetables, this salmon is sure to impress everyone at the dinner table.

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:15:34.524Z

When I first attempted making teriyaki salmon, I was blown away by how easily the sweet and umami flavors melded together. I usually make my own teriyaki sauce using soy sauce, honey, and mirin, as it lets me control the sweetness and ensure freshness. The first few times, I cooked it on the stovetop, but I later discovered that finishing it under the broiler gives it that perfect, crispy edge.

One tip I’ve learned is to let the salmon marinate for at least 30 minutes if you have the time. The result is salmon that is not only flavorful but also incredibly moist. I love pairing it with steamed jasmine rice and fresh vegetables to really round out the meal!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids for a healthy meal option

      

Unlocking Umami with Marinade Techniques

The teriyaki marinade is the heart of this dish, and understanding its components can enhance your salmon. Soy sauce provides a deep umami flavor, while honey adds sweetness to balance it. Mirin, a Japanese rice wine, introduces a subtle depth and helps to tenderize the fish. To best extract flavors, whisk your marinade until the honey is fully dissolved. This ensures an even coating on the salmon, giving it a richer taste as it cooks.

When marinating, remember that timing is everything. While 30 minutes is sufficient for flavor absorption, extending this to a few hours or overnight will yield an even deeper flavor profile. I often prepare the marinade ahead of time and allow the salmon to soak overnight in the refrigerator. This not only enhances taste but also ensures the fish remains moist during cooking.

Perfect Cooking Techniques

Broiling is a fantastic cooking method for this teriyaki salmon, as it cooks quickly and gives a nice caramelized finish. Preheat your broiler for 5-10 minutes to ensure the heating element is hot when you place the salmon inside. Position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source to get the right amount of charring without overcooking the fish. Keep a close eye on it—salmon cooks quickly and can go from perfectly flaky to overdone in under a minute.

If you prefer a different cooking technique, grilling can also create a delicious, smoky flavor. Just preheat your grill to medium-high and cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Using a grilling basket can help prevent sticking and assist with easy flipping, ensuring your salmon maintains its beautiful shape.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your teriyaki salmon:

Ingredients for Teriyaki Salmon

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons mirin
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious teriyaki salmon:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, mirin, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Mix well until the honey dissolves completely.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in the marinade, ensuring they are coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Preheat your broiler. Line a baking sheet with foil, and place the salmon skin-side down. Broil for about 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and slightly caramelized on top.

Garnish and Serve

Remove the salmon from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with rice and vegetables.

Enjoy your homemade teriyaki salmon!

Pro Tips

For an even deeper flavor, marinate the salmon overnight. You can also grill the salmon for a smoky taste.

Serving Suggestions

This Japanese Teriyaki Salmon pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, which absorbs the sauce's flavors wonderfully. I recommend serving it alongside sautéed bok choy or asparagus for a colorful plate. For a more filling option, consider adding a light side salad with a citrus dressing that contrasts the richness of the salmon.

To elevate your dish further, you could create a teriyaki glaze by boiling down the leftover marinade after cooking, thickening it until it becomes syrupy. Drizzle this over the salmon before serving to amplify the teriyaki flavor and add a glossy finish. Additionally, feel free to include a sprinkle of furikake, a Japanese seasoning blend, to give the dish an extra layer of flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If there are leftovers, store the salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the salmon's texture, it's best to reheat it gently in a microwave at 50% power or in a preheated oven at 275°F until warmed through. Avoid high heat, as it can dry out the fish, leading to a less enjoyable experience.

For those looking to meal prep, marinated salmon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Also, if you want to freeze some, place the marinated fillets in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. Thaw in the refrigerator the night before you plan to cook. This method keeps the salmon moist and flavorful for your next meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just ensure it's completely thawed before marinating.

→ What can I substitute for mirin?

You can use a mixture of sake and sugar, or white wine vinegar with water and sugar.

→ How do I know when the salmon is done?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

→ Can I make the teriyaki sauce in advance?

Absolutely! It can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.