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: 4 salmon fillets (skinless); 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 1 tablespoon corn starch (optional, for thickening); Green onions, chopped (for garnish); Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Highlighted under: World Plate Inspirations

I absolutely love making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home because it's incredibly easy to prepare yet bursting with flavor. The combination of the sweet, savory teriyaki sauce perfectly complements the rich taste of salmon, making it a go-to dish on busy weeknights or when I want to impress guests at dinner. With just a handful of ingredients, you'll have a delicious meal in under 30 minutes that transports you straight to Japan with every bite.

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:59:34.478Z

When I first tried Teriyaki Salmon at a cozy Japanese restaurant, I was immediately hooked. The flavors were perfectly balanced, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. After experimenting with various recipes, I settled on one that combines fresh ingredients with simple techniques, ensuring that the salmon stays moist while absorbing all that delicious teriyaki goodness.

The secret to achieving that glossy teriyaki finish is to glaze the salmon in the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the fish a beautiful, appetizing look. Trust me, this method will elevate your home-cooked meals!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich umami flavor from the teriyaki glaze
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
Perfectly flaky salmon with a beautiful caramelized finish

Key Techniques for Perfectly Cooked Salmon

Achieving perfectly flaky salmon involves controlling the heat throughout the cooking process. Start with medium heat to ensure even cooking. As the salmon begins to cook, you may need to adjust to medium-low to prevent burning while allowing the fish to remain moist. Look for the salmon to turn opaque and gently flake apart with a fork, which typically occurs around 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

A digital meat thermometer can be incredibly helpful to ensure doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 125°F for medium-rare. For added texture, try searing the salmon skin-side down for a crispy finish before flipping. If you prefer a more pronounced glaze, cook until the salmon is nearly finished, then turn the heat up slightly to caramelize the sauce for 1-2 minutes more, creating a beautiful sheen.

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce Components

Each ingredient in the teriyaki sauce plays a crucial role in balancing flavors. The soy sauce provides the essential salty umami base, while brown sugar contributes sweetness and depth that helps create a beautiful caramelization on the salmon. Rice vinegar adds tanginess to cut through the richness, balancing the overall dish. Garlic and ginger introduce aromatic qualities, making each bite flavorful and enticing.

If you're looking to customize the sauce, consider using low-sodium soy sauce to manage salt levels or substituting honey for brown sugar for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, premade teriyaki sauce can be a convenient option, but be sure to check for added sugars or preservatives, which can alter the dish's final taste.

Ingredients

Teriyaki Salmon Ingredients

4 salmon fillets (skinless)
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon corn starch (optional, for thickening)
Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and minced ginger until well combined. For a thicker sauce, you can stir in the corn starch. Set aside.

Cook the Salmon

Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the salmon fillets and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is golden brown and cooked to your liking.

Glaze with Teriyaki Sauce

During the last couple of minutes of cooking, pour the teriyaki sauce over the salmon in the skillet. Allow the sauce to simmer and glaze the fish, turning the fillets gently to coat them evenly.

Serve

Remove the salmon from the skillet and place it on a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining sauce on top and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with rice or steamed vegetables.

Enjoy your homemade teriyaki salmon!

Pro Tips

For extra depth of flavor, you can marinate the salmon in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. Adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

This teriyaki salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic approach, serve it over steamed jasmine or basmati rice, allowing the sauce to soak in. Alternatively, sautéed bok choy or steamed broccoli can enhance the dish with vibrant color and nutrients, creating a well-rounded meal while keeping things light.

For an Asian-inspired twist, consider adding a side of quick-pickled cucumbers. Simply slice cucumbers thinly, toss them with rice vinegar, a pinch of sugar, and salt, and let them sit for just 15 minutes. This will add a refreshing crunch that complements the salmon's richness.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance, storing it in an airtight container for up to a week in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen, enriching your final dish. If you have leftover salmon, it can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat to preserve texture without drying it out.

For those who want to save time on busy weeknights, consider marinating the salmon in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes to several hours before cooking. This not only intensifies the flavor but also helps tenderize the fish, making every bite even more delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just ensure it's fully thawed before cooking for even results.

→ Is teriyaki sauce gluten-free?

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

→ What can I serve with teriyaki salmon?

Teriyaki salmon pairs well with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.