Brown Sugar Soy Sauce Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salmon recipe is easy to prepare yet packed with bold, balanced flavors. The sweet and salty glaze enhances the natural richness of the fish without overpowering it. Whether baked, grilled, or pan-seared, the salmon turns out moist, flaky, and full of delicious umami goodness.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)

• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• Optional garnish: sliced green onions, sesame seeds, lemon wedges

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the Marinade:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, vinegar, and sesame oil until sugar dissolves.

2. Marinate the Salmon:

   • Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish or resealable bag.

   • Pour marinade over salmon, coating evenly.

   • Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.

3. Cook the Salmon:

   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a grill/pan over medium-high heat.

   • Remove salmon from marinade, reserving the marinade.

   • Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes or grill/pan-sear for about 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through and caramelized.

   • Optional: while cooking, brush reserved marinade over salmon to build a sticky glaze.

4. Serve:

   • Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

   • Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Marinating time: 30 minutes to 2 hours

• Cook time: 12-15 minutes

• Total time: 52 minutes (including marinating)

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade.

• Citrus Twist: Add a splash of orange juice or zest for brightness.

• Honey Swap: Replace brown sugar with honey for a different sweetness profile.

• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.

• Additional Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, covered to retain moisture.

FAQs

Can I marinate salmon overnight?

Yes, but no longer than 24 hours to avoid overly soft texture.

How do I prevent salmon from sticking when grilling?

Oil the grill grates well and preheat before cooking.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, thaw completely before marinating.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely, it reheats well and pairs with many sides.

Can I bake salmon without marinade?

Yes, but the glaze adds great flavor and moisture.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Rice, steamed vegetables, salad, or roasted potatoes.

Can I cook this in a skillet?

Yes, pan-sear over medium heat for best results.

How do I get a nice glaze?

Brush reserved marinade during cooking and broil briefly if baking.

Can I use this marinade for other fish?

Yes, it works well with cod, trout, or halibut.

Is sesame oil necessary?

It adds authentic flavor but can be omitted or substituted with olive oil.

Conclusion

Brown Sugar Soy Sauce Salmon is a simple yet flavorful dish that elevates everyday salmon into a sweet and savory delight. Its easy marinade and quick cooking make it perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners, offering a perfect balance of richness and tang that’s sure to please everyone at the table

Brown Sugar Soy Sauce Salmon

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• Author: Alice
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Brown Sugar Soy Sauce Salmon is a flavorful, tender, and easy-to-make dish featuring salmon fillets glazed with a savory-sweet sauce made from brown sugar and soy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe delivers rich umami flavors with minimal effort.

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Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (use low sodium if preferred)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

• 2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

• Prepare Marinade:
  In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, vinegar, olive or sesame oil, grated ginger, and black pepper until sugar dissolves.

• Marinate Salmon:
  Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour marinade over the salmon, ensuring each piece is coated. Marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator.

• Preheat Oven or Grill:
  Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare a grill for medium heat.

• Cook Salmon:

  • Oven: Place salmon on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake for 12–15 minutes, basting occasionally with marinade, until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily.

  • Grill: Grill salmon skin-side down for about 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked to desired doneness.

• Serve:
  Transfer salmon to plates, spoon extra sauce over top, and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.

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Notes

For a thicker sauce, simmer leftover marinade in a small saucepan until reduced.Substitute maple syrup or honey for brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.Add a splash of sriracha or chili flakes for heat.Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or alongside roasted vegetables.