Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons mirin; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Kitchen Creations

I absolutely love this Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon recipe! The sweet and savory glaze creates a perfect harmony with the rich flavor of the salmon. As I experimented with different marinades, I found that using fresh ginger and garlic really elevates the taste. Plus, cooking it on high heat gives it a beautifully charred finish while keeping the inside moist and tender. Whether you're serving this for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:47:34.773Z

When I first tried making teriyaki salmon at home, I was apprehensive about getting the glaze just right. But after a few attempts, I realized the key is balancing soy sauce with a hint of sweetness from brown sugar and mirin. I love letting the salmon marinate for at least 30 minutes to really absorb those flavors before cooking.

During one cooking session, I decided to add sesame seeds and green onions as a finishing touch, and the result was fabulous! The crunch and freshness from the toppings perfectly complemented the glaze, making it a dish I now prepare regularly for my friends and family.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously sweet and savory glaze with a hint of umami
Quick and easy preparation for weeknight dinners or gatherings
Perfectly cooked salmon with a glossy finish

Unlocking the Umami Flavor

The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and mirin in this teriyaki marinade creates a beautifully complex umami flavor profile. The soy sauce provides the salty base, while the brown sugar adds a hint of caramel sweetness that balances the saltiness. Mirin, a sweet rice wine, contributes subtle acidity and rounds out the flavors, making each bite incredibly satisfying. To enhance this further, using quality soy sauce, such as low-sodium varieties, can help control the saltiness without sacrificing flavor.

In addition to the marinade, fresh ginger and garlic offer aromatic qualities that elevate the dish. Ginger contains natural oils that not only add warmth but also tenderize the salmon, ensuring it stays moist during cooking. Garlic, when minced finely, integrates seamlessly into the glaze, leaving behind a fragrant essence. For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of sake, which can deepen the richness and complexity of the marinade.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Salmon

The cooking method plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect teriyaki salmon. Preheating your grill or skillet to medium-high heat ensures a quick sear, creating that sought-after caramelization on the surface. If using a skillet, opt for a non-stick or cast-iron pan to help prevent sticking. The goal is to achieve golden edges while keeping the fish tender inside; when cooked correctly, the salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an appealing glossy finish.

For those who prefer variations, try broiling the salmon in the oven instead. Place the fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and broil on high for about 6-8 minutes, keeping an eye to avoid burning. This method can produce a delightful char while retaining moisture. A meat thermometer can be a handy tool here, ensuring an internal temperature of 145°F for perfectly cooked salmon.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

Once your teriyaki salmon is cooked, presentation can elevate your dining experience. Serve it over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or small portions of quinoa, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Pair it with stir-fried vegetables or a light salad to balance the dish’s richness. For an authentic twist, you might drizzle extra teriyaki sauce on top or accompany it with pickled ginger for an additional flavor contrast.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the salmon even more delicious on day two! For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked salmon; wrap it well in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet or oven to maintain its texture.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients for Teriyaki Salmon

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons mirin
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

You can adjust the quantities based on your preferences or number of servings required.

Instructions

Follow these steps to achieve the perfect teriyaki salmon:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil until the sugar is dissolved.

Marinate the Salmon

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

Cook the Salmon

Preheat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through and nicely charred.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your delicious teriyaki salmon!

Make sure to serve with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For an even deeper flavor, consider grilling the salmon outdoors. Additionally, you can substitute honey for brown sugar for a different twist on the glaze.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a twist on the traditional teriyaki salmon, consider substituting the mirin with a bit of honey and rice vinegar if mirin is unavailable. This mixture will mimic the sweet and tangy flavor profile that mirin provides. Additionally, if you lack fresh ginger or garlic, you can use ground ginger and garlic powder as substitutes; however, fresh ingredients will yield a more vibrant flavor.

For those on a gluten-free diet, tamari sauce can replace regular soy sauce without compromising the dish's flavor. Additionally, you might explore different fish options, such as trout or chicken if salmon isn't accessible—just be aware of the differing cooking times required.

Variations on the Recipe

For a different flavor profile, you can experiment with adding fruit juices to the marinade. For example, swapping out half of the soy sauce for freshly squeezed orange juice can lend a citrusy brightness to the salmon. Similarly, a splash of pineapple juice can enhance sweetness and add a tropical flair—perfect for summer gatherings.

Alternatively, consider adding chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade for an added spicy kick. This can be perfect for those who enjoy a little heat with their meals, making each bite exciting while still allowing the fundamental flavors of teriyaki to shine through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different fish instead of salmon?

Yes, you can use other types of fish like tuna or swordfish; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How long can I marinate the salmon?

You can marinate the salmon for up to 2 hours, but avoid longer as the fish may become too salty.

→ Is teriyaki sauce gluten-free?

Traditional soy sauce contains gluten. However, you can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute.

→ What side dishes pair well with teriyaki salmon?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad are excellent choices to serve alongside teriyaki salmon.