Salmon Teriyaki
Salmon Teriyaki is a beloved dish that marries the rich, buttery flavor of salmon with a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze.
This Japanese-inspired recipe has become a staple in many households due to its simplicity and the deliciousness of the ingredients.
The teriyaki sauce, made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, infuses the fish with a unique umami flavor, while also providing a beautiful glossy finish.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, Salmon Teriyaki is both easy to prepare and visually stunning. Serve it with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables to complete a satisfying meal that highlights the best of Asian cuisine.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- Salmon fillets – 4 (about 6 ounces each, skin-on or skinless)
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
- Sesame seeds – 1 tablespoon (for garnish)
- Green onions – 2, sliced (for garnish)
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- Soy sauce – ½ cup (low-sodium preferred)
- Mirin – ¼ cup (Japanese sweet rice wine)
- Brown sugar – 2 tablespoons (or honey, for a different flavor)
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Ginger – 1 teaspoon, freshly grated
- Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon (optional, for thickening)
- Water – 2 tablespoons (if using cornstarch)
How to Make Salmon Teriyaki
Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
Stir the mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 3-5 minutes until the sugar is fully dissolved and the sauce is fragrant.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the sauce, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes. Once thickened, remove the sauce from the heat and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a better sear and caramelization.
Season both sides of the salmon with salt and black pepper.
In a large non-stick skillet or grill pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if applicable) to the pan.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving it. This allows the skin to crisp up (if using skin-on) and develop a nice sear.
Flip the salmon fillets carefully using a spatula. Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the salmon.
Continue cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes, basting the salmon with the sauce as it cooks. The salmon should be cooked to medium, or until it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
If you prefer a glaze, allow the sauce to bubble and caramelize slightly around the salmon for the last couple of minutes of cooking.
Step 4: Serve
Once cooked, remove the salmon from the pan and place it on a serving platter.
Drizzle any remaining teriyaki sauce from the pan over the salmon fillets for added flavor.
Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a beautiful presentation.
Serve the salmon teriyaki with steamed rice and your choice of vegetables, such as sautéed bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas.
Chef’s Note
Salmon Teriyaki is highly customizable. Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce by adding more or less brown sugar or honey according to your taste. You can also marinate the salmon in the teriyaki sauce for about 30 minutes before cooking for an even deeper flavor.
If you want to elevate the dish, consider adding a splash of sake or rice vinegar to the sauce for an extra depth of flavor. For those looking for a bit of heat, a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes can be added to the teriyaki sauce for a spicy kick.
Storage Tip: Leftover salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid overcooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 6g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 750mg
Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. The teriyaki sauce adds flavor without excessive calories, making this dish a great option for a balanced meal. Pairing it with vegetables enhances the nutritional profile, providing vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Conclusion
Salmon Teriyaki is a delightful fusion of flavors that is simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Its glossy, rich glaze and tender salmon fillets make it a showstopper at any dinner table.
This recipe is not only delicious but also offers a healthy and satisfying meal option that can easily be adapted to your taste preferences.
With its vibrant colors and enticing aroma, Salmon Teriyaki is sure to impress family and friends alike, inviting them to enjoy a taste of Japan from the comfort of home. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides and savor every flavorful bite!
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