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; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening); Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Exotic Kitchen Creations

I absolutely adore this Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon recipe! It’s a wonderful blend of sweet and savory, with a rich umami flavor that elevates the salmon to another level. The teriyaki sauce, made from scratch, transforms ordinary ingredients into something truly special. I always make it when I want to impress my family or friends. It’s straightforward, quick to prepare, and absolutely delicious, making it a favorite in my household that everyone looks forward to.

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:11:35.210Z

When I first tried making teriyaki sauce at home, I was surprised by how simple it was! With just a few basic ingredients including soy sauce, honey, and garlic, I could craft a flavor-packed marinade that brought the salmon to life. I recommend letting the fish marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor infusion—it truly makes a difference!

The first time I served this dish to my friends, they were blown away by the balance of flavors. The glossy glaze not only looks fantastic on the plate but also caramelizes beautifully in the pan. Pairing it with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables creates a delightful meal that always leaves everyone wanting more.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, homemade teriyaki sauce with a sweet and savory profile
Quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy weeknights
Nutritious salmon that's packed with omega-3 fatty acids

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

The beauty of this teriyaki sauce lies in its balance of flavors—it's sweet, savory, and slightly acidic. The soy sauce provides umami depth, while honey adds a natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully during cooking. Rice vinegar sharpens the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile. When making your sauce, be sure to whisk the ingredients until fully combined, as the mixture tends to separate if left standing too long.

For those who wish to adjust the flavor, consider adding a splash of mirin for a touch of sweetness or a dash of chili flakes for heat. If you're short on time, store-bought teriyaki sauce can work, but homemade truly elevates the dish and allows you to control the flavors to your liking.

Perfecting Salmon Cook Time

Cooking the salmon perfectly is key to achieving a delicious meal. Start with a preheated skillet; you want a medium-high heat that helps to sear the salmon quickly while keeping it moist inside. The salmon should change from translucent to opaque as it cooks. Typically, you'll cook the fillets for about 4-5 minutes on each side, but adjust the time based on the thickness of your fillets—thicker cuts may need a minute or two more.

While cooking, always keep an eye on the edges. They should begin to turn golden brown, giving you a visual cue that they are close to being perfectly cooked. If you notice the exterior browning too fast, lower the heat slightly to avoid burning while the interior finishes cooking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make this delicious salmon dish:

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Make sure everything is fresh and ready before you cook!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a fantastic teriyaki salmon:

Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add to the mixture.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the teriyaki sauce over them. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Cook the Salmon

Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the marinated salmon fillets skin-side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes, basting with the sauce until it is caramelized and cooked through.

Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve with your choice of rice or vegetables.

Enjoy your homemade Japanese teriyaki salmon!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a splash of sake or mirin to the sauce. This will enhance the depth of the dish. Additionally, using wild-caught salmon can elevate the taste even more.

Serving Suggestions

This teriyaki salmon pairs exceptionally well with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa, as they complement the sauce without overpowering it. Adding sautéed vegetables like snap peas, bell peppers, or bok choy not only increases the nutritional profile but also adds color and texture to your plate, making the dish more visually appealing.

For an Asian-inspired twist, consider serving the salmon alongside a simple sesame cucumber salad. The freshness of the cucumbers will balance the richness of the salmon and provide a crisp contrast.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, allow the salmon to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent drying out. Covering it with a damp paper towel in the microwave can help maintain moisture during reheating.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked salmon. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer-safe bag with as much air removed as possible. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of fish?

Yes! While salmon works great, you can also use trout, chicken, or tofu as alternatives.

→ How do I store leftover teriyaki salmon?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.

→ Can I make the teriyaki sauce in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the teriyaki sauce a few days ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with teriyaki salmon?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad.