If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet surprisingly simple to prepare, this Salmon Teriyaki with Steamed Rice Recipe is an absolute must-try. The rich, caramelized glaze on perfectly cooked salmon pairs beautifully with fluffy steamed rice, creating a harmony of sweet, savory, and umami notes that feels comforting and elegant all at once. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that feels special or a dish to impress guests, this recipe has got you covered with its balanced flavors and inviting presentation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredient list right is key to mastering this dish. Each element plays a crucial role: from the tender salmon to the sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce, and of course the steamed rice that acts as the perfect accompaniment. These straightforward ingredients come together to create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is colorful.
- Salmon fillets: Choose fresh, thick-cut fillets for a juicy and flaky result.
- Soy sauce: Adds the essential salty and umami backbone to the teriyaki sauce.
- Mirin: A sweet rice wine that softens and balances the sauce with gentle sweetness.
- Sake: Provides a subtle depth and complexity to the glaze.
- Brown sugar: Gives the sauce its signature caramelized glaze and a touch of richness.
- Grated ginger: Fresh ginger adds a bright, zesty kick that lifts the entire dish.
- Cooked white rice: The perfect fluffy base to soak up every bit of that delicious teriyaki sauce.
- Green onions: Freshly sliced for a pop of bright color and mild onion flavor.
How to Make Salmon Teriyaki with Steamed Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
Start by combining soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, and freshly grated ginger in a small bowl. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures the sauce has that perfect balance of salty, sweet, and spicy notes that define authentic teriyaki.
Step 2: Marinate the Salmon
Place your salmon fillets into the sauce and let them soak up those flavors for at least 30 minutes. This marination step is where the magic happens, allowing the fish to absorb the depths of the glaze and stay beautifully moist when cooked.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
Heat a skillet over medium heat and gently cook the salmon for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. This method locks in moisture and caramelizes the teriyaki sauce to create that irresistible glossy finish.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Serve the salmon fillets over a bed of steaming white rice, making sure to drizzle any remaining sauce on top. Finish with a sprinkle of green onions for a fresh contrast that makes every bite pop.
How to Serve Salmon Teriyaki with Steamed Rice Recipe
Garnishes
The simplest garnishes can elevate your Salmon Teriyaki with Steamed Rice Recipe. A handful of thinly sliced green onions adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color, while a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can add a nutty aroma and extra texture. For an extra pop, a few julienned carrots or a wedge of lemon on the side works beautifully.
Side Dishes
Keep the sides light and complementary. A crisp cucumber salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or snap peas balance the richness of the teriyaki salmon perfectly. Pickled ginger or a light miso soup can also add a traditional Japanese touch to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation makes the dinner experience memorable. Try arranging your salmon fillet on the rice in a shallow bowl to create a modern donburi style meal. You can drizzle extra teriyaki sauce in a zigzag pattern on top and scatter microgreens or edible flowers to impress at any table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Salmon Teriyaki with Steamed Rice Recipe, store the salmon and rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the texture of the rice and prevents the salmon from becoming soggy.
Freezing
While fresh is always best with this dish, you can freeze cooked salmon fillets wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Be sure to freeze the rice separately in airtight containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to retain quality.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. For best results, warm the salmon fillets in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or extra teriyaki sauce to keep the fish moist. Microwave the rice covered with a damp paper towel to restore its softness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, frozen salmon can be used, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat dry before marinating to ensure the best texture and flavor absorption.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this dish?
Absolutely! Substitute salmon with firm tofu or grilled mushrooms and use the same teriyaki sauce for a delicious plant-based version of this Salmon Teriyaki with Steamed Rice Recipe.
How long should I marinate the salmon?
At least 30 minutes is ideal. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish without overwhelming it, giving you that perfect balance of taste in every bite.
Can I cook this recipe in the oven instead of a skillet?
Yes, baking salmon at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes while occasionally spooning the sauce on top works wonderfully and keeps the fish tender and flavorful.
What type of rice works best with this recipe?
Traditional short-grain sushi rice or jasmine rice are excellent choices because their texture is sticky enough to hold the sauce but light enough to complement the salmon.
Final Thoughts
This Salmon Teriyaki with Steamed Rice Recipe is a wonderful blend of simple ingredients and bold flavors that feels both homey and special. I can’t recommend it enough as a go-to recipe when you want something comforting yet impressive. Give it a try, and you’ll have a new favorite that’s sure to become a regular dinner rotation staple.
Print
Salmon Teriyaki with Steamed Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
Description
Delicious and savory Salmon Teriyaki served with fluffy steamed white rice, featuring a homemade teriyaki sauce made with soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, and fresh ginger. This easy-to-make dish combines tender pan-seared salmon with a sweet and tangy glaze, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Salmon Teriyaki
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin
- 1/4 cup sake
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp grated ginger
Side
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- Green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, and grated ginger. Stir until the brown sugar is dissolved, creating a balanced teriyaki marinade.
- Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the teriyaki sauce over them. Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the rich flavors of the sauce.
- Cook the Salmon: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade, letting excess drip off, then place the fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and has a nice golden sear.
- Serve: Spoon steamed white rice onto plates, lay the cooked salmon fillets on top, and garnish with freshly chopped green onions. Drizzle with any remaining teriyaki sauce if desired.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh salmon fillets with skin on to help keep the fish moist while cooking.
- If sake is unavailable, dry sherry or additional mirin can be used as substitutes.
- Be careful not to overcook the salmon; it should remain moist and flaky.
- Leftover teriyaki sauce can be simmered until thickened and used as a glaze.
- For a lower-sodium version, use low-sodium soy sauce.
