Teriyaki salmon is a simple yet incredibly delicious dish, featuring flaky salmon fillets glazed in a rich, sweet, and savory sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal, this recipe pairs beautifully with steamed rice and vegetables. Follow this step-by-step guide to make restaurant-quality teriyaki salmon at home!
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 spring onions (finely sliced, for garnish)
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon mirin (or substitute with extra rice vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or sugar), rice vinegar, mirin, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
- In a separate bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and season lightly with salt and black pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy.
- Flip the salmon and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until golden brown and nearly cooked through.
Step 3: Glaze the Salmon
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the prepared teriyaki sauce into the pan.
- Let it simmer for 2 minutes, then add the cornstarch mixture and stir until the sauce thickens and coats the salmon.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Remove from heat and transfer the salmon to plates.
- Drizzle any remaining sauce over the fillets.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced spring onions for a beautiful finish.
Serving Suggestions
✔ Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a classic Japanese-style meal.
✔ Pair with stir-fried or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, bok choy, or carrots.
✔ Add a side of pickled ginger or miso soup for an authentic touch.
Tips for the Perfect Teriyaki Salmon
🔥 Don’t overcook the salmon – It should be just cooked through and flaky.
🔥 Use fresh salmon – The fresher the fish, the better the flavor.
🔥 Let the sauce thicken naturally – Simmering ensures a glossy, flavorful glaze.
🔥 Marinate for extra flavor – If you have time, marinate the salmon in the teriyaki sauce for 15-30 minutes before cooking.
Final Thoughts
Teriyaki salmon is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a great dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this easy recipe is guaranteed to be a hit!