This teriyaki salmon is tasty and easy to make! It has a yummy sweet and salty glaze that makes the fish shine. Simply bake or grill it, and you’re good to go!
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting seconds. I sometimes serve it over rice for a complete meal! Just the thought of that glaze makes my mouth water! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is best for this recipe, but you can substitute with other firm fish like trout or chicken breast. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using skinless, boneless chicken thighs.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep the salt content in check. If you are gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead, which work well as a substitute.
Mirin: If you can’t find mirin, the mix of honey and water is a fantastic alternative. This adds a nice sweetness that balances the soy sauce. You can even use maple syrup in a pinch!
Vegetables: Broccoli works great, but feel free to toss in other veggies like snap peas, bell peppers, or carrots for added color and nutrition. It’s a great way to use up what you have in the fridge!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon to perfection is key for this dish. Here are some tips to help you get it just right:
- Start with salmon fillets at room temperature. Remove them from the fridge about 15 minutes before cooking for more even cooking.
- Use medium-high heat to get a nice sear. This creates a beautiful crust while keeping the inside moist.
- Avoid messing with the salmon while it cooks! Let it sear for 3-4 minutes on each side without flipping too early.
- Always brush on that teriyaki sauce in the last minute of cooking. This helps to glaze the salmon without burning the sugars in the sauce.
Savory Teriyaki Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
- 3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp white sesame seeds (for garnish)
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 2 tbsp mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine) or substitute with 1 tbsp honey + 1 tbsp water
- 2 tbsp sake or dry white wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry to thicken the sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious teriyaki salmon dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, expect it to be ready in about 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce:
In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake (if using), brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Thicken the Sauce:
Stir the cornstarch slurry into the sauce and cook for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Once thickened, remove it from heat and set it aside.
3. Cook the Salmon:
Season the salmon fillets lightly with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are cooked through and nicely browned.
4. Glaze the Salmon:
In the last minute of cooking, brush or spoon the teriyaki sauce generously over the salmon, letting it caramelize slightly for extra flavor.
5. Assemble the Dish:
To serve, place the cooked rice in bowls. Top with a teriyaki salmon fillet. On the side, add steamed broccoli and cherry tomatoes for a colorful and healthy meal.
6. Final Touches:
Drizzle any remaining teriyaki sauce over the salmon and rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of white sesame seeds for a lovely presentation.
7. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve immediately and enjoy your savory teriyaki salmon bowl with family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. The best way to thaw salmon is to place it in the refrigerator overnight or, for a quicker option, seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or sriracha into the teriyaki sauce. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste! You can also serve the finished dish with a drizzle of spicy mayo for an extra kick.
What Should I Serve with Teriyaki Salmon?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides! Besides jasmine or basmati rice, consider serving it with quinoa, fried rice, or steamed vegetables. You can also add a light salad for a refreshing contrast to the savory salmon.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water or sauce to keep the fish from drying out.
