Salmon Teriyaki with Steamed Rice

Salmon Teriyaki with Steamed Rice is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the rich, tender texture of salmon with the sweet and savory flavors of a homemade teriyaki sauce. This Japanese-inspired recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The marinade enhances the natural flavors of the salmon while the simple steamed rice provides a perfect, neutral base to complement the dish. Whether you’re a fan of seafood or just looking for a flavorful meal, this dish will surely impress.

With a blend of soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, and grated ginger, the teriyaki sauce delivers the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and slightly tangy flavors. The salmon fillets cook up quickly in a skillet, becoming beautifully caramelized from the marinade, while the steamed rice offers a light, fluffy contrast. Garnished with fresh green onions, this meal is not only flavorful but also visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe takes only 50 minutes from start to finish, with minimal prep time and simple cooking steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

2. Packed with Flavor

The teriyaki sauce is rich, sweet, and savory, perfectly complementing the rich taste of the salmon. It’s a flavor-packed meal that will leave you wanting more.

3. Healthy and Nutritious

Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins. Paired with steamed rice, this dish is both wholesome and satisfying.

4. Customizable

You can easily adjust the flavor profile by altering the sweetness or saltiness of the teriyaki sauce, or by adding extra spices or seasonings to suit your taste.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re making a casual weeknight dinner or preparing a meal for guests, Salmon Teriyaki with Steamed Rice is sure to impress and satisfy.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup mirin
• 1/4 cup sake
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• Green onions, for garnish

Variations

Spicy Salmon Teriyaki

Add a bit of heat to the dish by mixing in some sriracha or chili flakes into the teriyaki sauce for a spicy kick.

Grilled Salmon

For a smoky flavor, grill the marinated salmon fillets instead of pan-frying them. This will add an extra layer of depth to the dish.

Vegetarian Option

Substitute the salmon with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version of this dish. The tofu will soak up the teriyaki sauce and deliver a similar texture.

Add Vegetables

Serve the salmon with steamed vegetables like broccoli, bok choy, or edamame for a more complete meal with extra nutrients.

Rice Variations

Switch the white rice with brown rice or jasmine rice for a different texture and flavor profile.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, and grated ginger. Stir well until the brown sugar dissolves, creating a smooth sauce.

Step 2: Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the teriyaki sauce over them. Let the salmon marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes. For more flavor, marinate for up to an hour.

Step 3: Cook the Salmon

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is golden and cooked through. The caramelized teriyaki sauce will create a delicious glaze on the salmon.

Step 4: Serve

Serve the cooked salmon fillets over a bed of steamed white rice. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a burst of color and flavor.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Salmon: For the best flavor and texture, try to use fresh, high-quality salmon fillets. Frozen salmon can be used as well, but fresh will yield a better result.
• Avoid Overcooking: Be careful not to overcook the salmon. It should be tender and slightly flaky but still moist. The cooking time can vary based on the thickness of the fillets, so adjust accordingly.
• Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the teriyaki sauce to your taste by adding more brown sugar for sweetness, soy sauce for saltiness, or ginger for extra spice.
• Marinate Longer: Marinating the salmon for an hour or more can enhance the flavors, but even 30 minutes will still give you a flavorful result.
• Serve with Pickled Vegetables: For an added touch, serve the salmon with pickled ginger or pickled vegetables on the side to complement the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce.

How to Serve

This dish is best served with a side of steamed rice, but you can also pair it with stir-fried vegetables, a light salad, or miso soup to make a complete meal. Garnish with green onions and, if desired, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an extra crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the fish.

Freezing

While salmon is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover salmon for up to 1 month. Wrap the fillets tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat salmon fillets in the oven or a skillet over low heat to retain moisture and avoid drying out the fish. If reheating the rice, you can add a splash of water and microwave it until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the sake with something else?

If you don’t have sake, you can substitute it with white wine or a mixture of white grape juice and a little vinegar.

2. Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can use other fish fillets, such as trout or cod, in place of salmon, although the cooking time may vary.

3. Can I make the teriyaki sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

4. Can I bake the salmon instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the salmon at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, this recipe can be made gluten-free.

6. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice is a great alternative to white rice and will add a nuttier flavor to the dish.

7. How long should I marinate the salmon?

Marinate the salmon for at least 30 minutes, but for even more flavor, you can marinate it for up to an hour.

8. Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just be sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking.

9. Can I add vegetables to the teriyaki sauce?

Yes, you can sauté or steam vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bok choy and serve them alongside the salmon for a more complete meal.

10. How do I know when the salmon is done?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Conclusion

Salmon Teriyaki with Steamed Rice is a simple, yet flavorful dish that brings the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, it’s an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or an easy meal to impress guests. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish will satisfy your cravings for a delicious and nutritious meal. Enjoy!

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