This teriyaki salmon is a tasty treat that features juicy salmon glazed with a sweet and tangy sauce. It’s easy to make and always impresses at dinner!
You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together. I often serve it with rice and veggies, and trust me, leftovers (if there are any) taste just as good the next day! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Salmon is the star here! If you’re not a fan, you can use trout or even chicken breasts for a different flavor. Always choose fresh fish for the best results.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce brings depth, but if you’re watching sodium, try low-sodium soy sauce. Tamari is a great gluten-free option, too.
Mirin: This sweet rice wine adds sweetness. If you can’t find mirin, a mix of white wine and a bit of sugar or honey can work as a substitute.
Sake: Sake is optional, but it can enhance the flavor. If you don’t have it, just skip it or use a splash of white wine.
Cornstarch: This helps thicken the sauce. If you’re avoiding cornstarch, arrowroot powder or flour can be alternatives, but use them sparingly as they thicken differently.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon just right ensures it’s flaky and moist. Follow these steps for success:
- Start with a hot skillet to create a nice sear. This keeps juices inside the salmon.
- Don’t rush the cooking process. Let it sear for 4-5 minutes on one side before flipping.
- When you flip, you’ll know it’s ready if it releases easily from the pan. Cook it for about 3-4 more minutes.
- For best results, remove it from the heat when slightly undercooked, as it will continue cooking from residual heat.
By following these simple techniques, you’ll end up with salmon that’s tender and packed with flavor! Enjoy your meal!
Savory Teriyaki Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
- 2 tablespoons sake (optional)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Steamed white rice, for serving
- Steamed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, etc.), for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This savory teriyaki salmon takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking. In just about 30-35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, wholesome meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps to get a nice sear. Season both sides with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
2. Cook the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the salmon fillets, placing them skin-side down if they have skin. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes until they turn golden and crisp on the bottom.
3. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Using a spatula, carefully flip the salmon fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Check for doneness: the salmon should be cooked through but still juicy. Once done, remove the fillets from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
4. Make the Teriyaki Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Pour in the soy sauce, mirin, and sake (if using). Add the brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Stir in the cornstarch slurry (the cornstarch mixed with water) to the sauce. Keep stirring for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
6. Combine Salmon & Sauce:
Return the cooked salmon to the pan. Spoon the teriyaki sauce over each fillet, letting it heat through for about a minute. This step helps the salmon soak up all that delicious flavor!
7. Serve with Rice and Veggies:
On each plate, place a salmon fillet on a bed of steamed white rice. Drizzle with any remaining sauce from the pan.
8. Add the Final Touches:
For beautiful presentation and flavor, garnish your dish with sliced green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds over the top. Add a side of your favorite steamed vegetables like broccoli and carrots for a colorful, nutritious meal.
Enjoy your savory teriyaki salmon — it’s the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors paired with tender fish, making it a delightful dish! 🍣✨
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can place the salmon in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Mirin?
If you don’t have mirin, you can substitute it with a mixture of white wine and a teaspoon of sugar or honey. This will give you a similar sweet flavor that complements the teriyaki sauce.
How to Store Leftover Teriyaki Salmon?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying it out.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Teriyaki Sauce?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy to the pan while making the teriyaki sauce. Just add them at the same time as the sauce so they can cook slightly and absorb the flavors.
