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Brown Sugar Soy Sauce Salmon

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This Brown Sugar Soy Sauce Salmon is tender, flaky, and coated in a delicious caramelized glaze made with brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of lemon.

Ingredients

Scale
For the Salmon
  • 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust based on soy sauce saltiness)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Brown Sugar Soy Sauce Glaze
  • ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra caramelization)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra depth)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnish (Optional)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Make the Glaze
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.
2. Cook the Salmon (Pan-Seared Method)
  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil.
  3. Place the salmon skin-side down and sear for 3–4 minutes, until golden brown.
  4. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes, then pour the glaze into the skillet.
  5. Let the glaze simmer for 2 minutes, spooning it over the salmon as it thickens.
3. Serve & Enjoy
  1. Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and lemon wedges.
  2. Serve with rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.

Alternative: Baked Brown Sugar Soy Salmon

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place salmon fillets in a foil-lined baking dish.
  3. Pour the glaze over the salmon.
  4. Bake for 12–15 minutes, then broil for 2 minutes to caramelize the top.

Storage & Reheating

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or bake at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.


Notes

  • Swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness.
  • Add pineapple juice for a Hawaiian-inspired flavor!
  • Want a thicker glaze? Mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water, and stir into the glaze.