Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Sliced green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish

Highlighted under: World Flavor Adventures

I absolutely love making teriyaki salmon at home! The blend of sweet and savory flavors combined with the richness of the salmon is simply irresistible. Each time I prepare this dish, I find myself enveloped in the delightful aromas wafting through my kitchen. Cooking the salmon in a homemade teriyaki sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and honey brings out its natural flavors beautifully. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion when I want to impress my guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-26T22:37:34.932Z

When I first tried teriyaki salmon at a local sushi restaurant, I immediately fell in love with the marriage of flavors and textures. I decided to recreate this dish at home and have perfected my own version over time. The key to achieving that rich, glossy glaze is to simmer the teriyaki sauce to the right consistency without burning it.

I've experimented with different additions, like sesame seeds and chopped green onions, which add a delightful crunch and freshness. Pairing the salmon with a side of steamed rice and bok choy elevates the dish further, making for a balanced and visually appealing meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich soy and honey glaze that caramelizes beautifully
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Healthy and satisfying meal packed with omega-3 fatty acids

Mastering the Teriyaki Sauce

The teriyaki sauce is the heart of this dish, delivering the essential sweet, savory, and umami flavors that define teriyaki. By cooking the garlic and ginger in the sauce, you infuse the mixture with warmth and depth. Make sure to simmer the sauce until it coats the back of a spoon, as this indicates it has thickened sufficiently. If your sauce is too thin, return it to the heat and let it simmer longer; this will enhance the flavor and texture.

If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of chili paste or flakes to the teriyaki sauce while it simmers. This not only adds heat but also enriches the flavor profile. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute soy sauce with tamari, and for a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey. These substitutions can provide different nuances in the sauce while maintaining the essence of teriyaki.

Cooking Salmon to Perfection

To achieve perfectly cooked salmon, remember that the fillets will continue to cook after you remove them from the heat due to residual heat. I recommend using a meat thermometer; your salmon is done at 145°F (63°C). As you cook, keep an eye on the skin; it should be crispy and golden. If you notice that it’s browning too fast, reduce the heat slightly to avoid burning while ensuring the fillets cook through evenly.

For added flavor, marinate the salmon in a portion of the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. This will enhance the overall taste and moisture level of the fish. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of salmon, such as sockeye or king salmon, which offer unique flavors and textures. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.

Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Sauce

1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Sliced green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and ginger. Turn the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Cook the Salmon

Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin side down, and cook for about 4-5 minutes. Flip the fillets over and pour the teriyaki sauce over the salmon. Allow it to cook for another 3-4 minutes, basting the salmon with the sauce, until cooked through.

Serve

Remove the salmon from the skillet and plate it. Drizzle a bit more teriyaki sauce over the top and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For an added depth of flavor, allow the salmon to marinate in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. Be cautious not to overcook the salmon to retain its moisture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To create a well-rounded meal, serve this teriyaki salmon with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa, which will soak up the delicious sauce. You can also include a side of stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for color and crunch. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions not only enhances the presentation but adds a delightful nuttiness that complements the dish beautifully.

For a different twist, try serving the teriyaki salmon as part of a poke bowl. Layer sushi rice, fresh vegetables, and cubed salmon drizzled with teriyaki sauce. You may also add avocado for creaminess and pickled ginger for a tangy contrast that elevates the overall experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This teriyaki salmon is an excellent option for meal prep. You can prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This way, you can easily whip up this dish on busy weeknights. Just make sure to reheat the sauce before pouring it over the salmon during the cooking process.

If you have leftover salmon, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat to prevent drying out. For freezing, wrap the cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap and foil; it can be stored for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for mirin?

You can use a mix of rice vinegar and sugar as a substitute.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This teriyaki salmon can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the teriyaki sauce a few days ahead and store it in the refrigerator.