If you’re a fan of seafood and love experimenting with different flavors, then making teriyaki salmon in the air fryer is something you must try. Not only is it a quick and easy recipe, but it also yields deliciously succulent salmon infused with the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki sauce. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of making this mouthwatering dish, complete with all the tips and tricks you need to achieve the perfect teriyaki salmon in your air fryer.
Gather your Ingredients
Before we delve into the recipe, let’s start by gathering all the necessary ingredients for our teriyaki salmon. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 2 salmon fillets.
– ¼ cup of soy sauce.
– 2 tablespoons of honey.
– 1 tablespoon of mirin (Japanese rice wine).
– 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar.
– 1 tablespoon of cornstarch.
– 1 tablespoon of water.
– Optional toppings such as sesame seeds and green onions.
Preparing the Teriyaki Sauce
The key to achieving a delicious teriyaki salmon lies in the sauce. To prepare the teriyaki sauce, grab a small saucepan and place it over medium heat. Add the soy sauce, honey, mirin, and rice vinegar to the saucepan, and whisk the ingredients together until well combined. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Marinating the Salmon
Now it’s time to marinate the salmon fillets. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a ziplock bag, and pour the teriyaki sauce over them, ensuring they are completely coated. Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if time permits, marinating for a few hours will further enhance the flavors.
Preheating the Air Fryer
While the salmon is marinating, preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). This step is crucial to ensure that the salmon cooks evenly and retains its moisture.
Cooking the Salmon in the Air Fryer
Once your air fryer is preheated and the salmon has marinated to your desired time, remove the salmon fillets from the marinade, reserving the excess sauce for later use. Pat the fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, as this will help achieve a crispy exterior.
Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between them for the hot air to circulate. Cook the salmon for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius). Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets, so keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Adding the Finishing Touches
While your salmon is cooking in the air fryer, it’s the perfect time to thicken the reserved teriyaki sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the cornstarch and water, creating a slurry. Add the slurry to the reserved teriyaki sauce, and cook over medium heat until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Once the salmon is cooked, carefully remove it from the air fryer and place it on a serving dish. Pour the thickened teriyaki sauce over the salmon fillets, making sure to evenly coat them. For an extra touch of flavor and texture, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top.
Enjoying Your Teriyaki Salmon
Congratulations! You’ve successfully made teriyaki salmon in the air fryer. This quick and easy recipe delivers a deliciously tender and flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends. Serve your teriyaki salmon alongside steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a complete, well-balanced meal.
Final Thoughts
Making teriyaki salmon in the air fryer is a fantastic way to enjoy this popular dish with a healthier twist. By cooking salmon in the air fryer, you can achieve a crispy and caramelized exterior while locking in its natural moisture. The teriyaki sauce adds a delightful umami flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the salmon.
So, the next time you’re craving a mouthwatering seafood dish, give this quick and easy teriyaki salmon recipe a try. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be able to enjoy a delectable meal that’s bursting with flavors. Get your air fryer ready and let it work its magic on the salmon fillets, creating a dish that will leave you wanting more.