Kenji's Cooking Show

Kenji's Cooking Show is a easy Japanese recipe that serves 2. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by J. Kenji López-Alt on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 45 min | Total: 1 hr 15 min

Cost: $32.64 total, $16.32 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 pieces Wild Atlantic Salmon Fillet (Skin on, about 6‑8 oz each)
  • 0.25 cup White Miso Paste (Sweet (shiro) miso, room temperature)
  • 0.33 cup Sake (Japanese rice wine, optional – can substitute dry white wine or chicken broth)
  • 1 tsp Rice Vinegar (Adds a touch of acidity)
  • 2 tbsp Soy Sauce (Low‑sodium preferred)
  • 0.25 cup Brown Sugar (Can substitute with honey or white sugar)
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Extra‑virgin, for glaze and vegetables)
  • 8 oz Broccolini (Trimmed, ends cut)
  • 4 oz Maitake Mushrooms (Torn into bite‑size pieces)
  • 2 cups Arugula (Baby arugula for salad)
  • 0.5 cup Cherry Tomatoes (Halved)
  • 0.25 cup Red Onion (Thinly sliced)
  • 0.25 cup Cucumber (Diced)
  • 2 tbsp Sesame Dressing (Store‑bought or homemade)
  • 1 tsp Black Sesame Seeds (For garnish)
  • 2 tbsp Soy Sauce (for teriyaki glaze) (Low‑sodium)
  • 2 tbsp Mirin (Sweet Japanese rice wine)
  • 2 tbsp Sugar (for teriyaki glaze) (Granulated)

Instructions

  1. Remove Pin Bones

    Run your finger along the top side of the salmon fillet to locate the pin bones. Using needle‑nose tweezers, pull each bone out in the direction it’s pointing, taking care not to tear the skin.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Make Miso Glaze

    In a mixing bowl, whisk together white miso, sake, rice vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, and olive oil until smooth.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Marinate Salmon

    Place the salmon fillet skin‑side down on a plate, pour the miso glaze over it, and turn to coat both sides. Let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes (or up to 2 days refrigerated for deeper flavor).

    Time: PT5M

  4. Preheat Oven

    Preheat the pizza oven (or conventional oven) to 450°F (230°C). If using a broiler, set to high and let heat up fully.

    Time: PT45M

    Temperature: 450°F

  5. Prepare Vegetables

    Toss broccolini and maitake mushrooms with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate plate.

    Time: PT5M

  6. Arrange on Baking Sheet

    Line a baking sheet with foil. Place the salmon skin‑side down in the center. Arrange the seasoned vegetables around the fish. Fold a loose tent of foil over the edges of the salmon to protect it from direct heat.

    Time: PT5M

  7. Roast Salmon and Vegetables

    Place the sheet in the oven. Roast at 450°F for 5 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and continue roasting for another 5‑7 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 120‑125°F for rare‑medium. Vegetables should be tender‑crisp.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: 350°F

  8. Make Optional Teriyaki Glaze

    While the salmon cooks, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the mixture thickens to a syrupy consistency, about 5‑7 minutes.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: medium heat

  9. Rest and Finish

    Remove the salmon from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle the teriyaki glaze over the fish and vegetables, then sprinkle with black sesame seeds. Toss the arugula salad with sesame dressing and serve alongside.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
30 g
Carbohydrates
15 g
Fat
15 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Pescatarian, Gluten‑Free if tamari is used, Low‑Carb

Allergens: Fish, Soy, Sesame

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Instead of Wild Atlantic Salmon Fillet: Black Cod, Sablefish, Chilean Sea Bass
  • Instead of White Miso Paste: Yellow Miso, Red Miso
  • Instead of Sake: Dry White Wine, Chicken Broth
  • Instead of Rice Vinegar: Apple Cider Vinegar (use less)
  • Instead of Soy Sauce: Tamari (gluten‑free)
  • Instead of Brown Sugar: Honey, White Granulated Sugar
  • Instead of Olive Oil: Canola Oil, Vegetable Oil
  • Instead of Broccolini: Broccoli Florets
  • Instead of Maitake Mushrooms: Shiitake Mushrooms, Portobello
  • Instead of Arugula: Spinach, Mixed Greens
  • Instead of Cherry Tomatoes: Grape Tomatoes
  • Instead of Red Onion: White Onion
  • Instead of Cucumber: Zucchini
  • Instead of Sesame Dressing: Soy‑ginger vinaigrette
  • Instead of Black Sesame Seeds: White Sesame Seeds
  • Instead of Soy Sauce (for teriyaki glaze): Tamari
  • Instead of Mirin: Honey mixed with a splash of rice vinegar
  • Instead of Sugar (for teriyaki glaze): Brown Sugar

Equipment Needed

  • Pizza Oven or Conventional Oven with Broiler
  • Baking Sheet
  • Aluminum Foil
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Small Whisk
  • Needle‑Nose Tweezers or Pliers
  • Sharp Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Saucepan
  • Spatula
  • Tongs
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Thermometer (optional) (optional)

Critical Steps — Do Not Skip

  • Removing pin bones without tearing the skin
  • Balancing the miso glaze’s salty‑sweet profile
  • Using a foil tent to prevent the glaze from burning
  • Adjusting oven temperature after the initial high‑heat sear

Chef Tips from the Video

  • Leave the skin on for a protective barrier and extra flavor.
  • For an ultra‑crisp skin, pat it dry with paper towels before glazing.
  • If you don’t have a pizza oven, a standard oven’s broiler works perfectly.

Troubleshooting

Salmon turns out dry

Reduce cooking time or lower the oven temperature; the miso glaze also works better if the fish is not over‑cooked.

Glaze is too salty

Add a little more brown sugar or a splash of water to balance the flavor before coating the fish.

Foil tent burns the skin

Pull the foil back slightly once the glaze darkens, or lower the oven temperature earlier.

Storage

Refrigerator: Store leftover salmon and glaze in airtight containers for up to 2 days.

Freezer: Freeze cooked salmon (without glaze) in a freezer‑safe bag for up to 1 month; reheat gently.

Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Make-Ahead Tips

  • The miso glaze can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and refrigerated.
  • Salmon may be marinated for up to 48 hours for extra moisture; keep covered and chilled.
  • Teriyaki glaze stores well in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cultural significance and history of miso glazed salmon in Japanese cuisine?

Miso‑marinated fish became popular in Japan during the late 20th century, especially after Nobu Matsuhisa popularized miso‑black cod in the 1990s. The technique reflects traditional Japanese preservation methods where salty miso acts like a brine, enhancing moisture and flavor.

What traditional regional variations of miso‑glazed fish exist in Japanese cuisine?

In Hokkaido, a richer red miso is used for heartier fish, while in Kyoto lighter white miso pairs with delicate white fish. Some regions add yuzu or citrus zest for brightness, and coastal areas may incorporate kombu dashi in the glaze.

How is miso glazed salmon traditionally served in Japan?

It is often served as a small plate (okazu) alongside steamed rice, pickled vegetables, and a clear dashi broth. The fish is presented whole, skin‑side up, allowing the glossy glaze to shine.

During what occasions is miso glazed salmon typically enjoyed in Japanese culture?

Miso‑glazed fish is a popular choice for celebratory meals such as New Year’s (osechi) and special family gatherings because it looks elegant and offers a balance of sweet and savory flavors.

What makes miso glazed salmon special within Japanese‑inspired cooking?

The miso glaze provides a natural umami boost while acting as a mild brine, keeping the salmon moist and giving it a caramelized, glossy finish that’s both visually striking and flavorful.

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making miso glazed salmon?

Overcooking the salmon, letting the glaze burn by using too high a temperature for too long, and not removing pin bones can all ruin the dish. Keep a foil tent handy and monitor the internal temperature for best results.

Why does this recipe start the salmon at high heat then lower it, instead of cooking at a single temperature?

The initial high heat quickly sears the surface, creating a caramelized crust while the miso glaze begins to set. Lowering the temperature finishes cooking the interior gently, preventing the glaze from burning and keeping the flesh rare‑medium.

Can I make the miso glaze ahead of time and how should I store it?

Yes, the glaze can be prepared up to three days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; bring it to room temperature and whisk before using.

What does the YouTube channel J. Kenji López‑Alt specialize in?

The YouTube channel J. Kenji López‑Alt focuses on science‑based cooking, detailed technique breakdowns, and approachable recipes that bridge restaurant‑level flavor with home‑cook practicality.

How does the YouTube channel J. Kenji López‑Alt's approach to Japanese‑inspired cooking differ from other cooking channels?

Kenji emphasizes the underlying chemistry of ingredients—like how miso acts as a brine—and often tests multiple methods (pizza oven, broiler, grill) to find the most reliable home technique, whereas many channels simply present a single method.

Last updated: August 31, 2026

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Kenji's Cooking Show

Recipe by J. Kenji López-Alt

A quick‑cook, Japanese‑inspired salmon fillet brushed with a sweet‑salty miso glaze, finished in a hot pizza oven or broiler. Served with roasted broccolini, maitake mushrooms, and a simple arugula salad.

EasyJapaneseServes 2

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
1h 15m
Prep
20m
Cook
11m
Cleanup
1h 46m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$32.64
Total cost
$16.32
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Removing pin bones without tearing the skin
  • Balancing the miso glaze’s salty‑sweet profile
  • Using a foil tent to prevent the glaze from burning
  • Adjusting oven temperature after the initial high‑heat sear

Safety Warnings

  • Handle raw salmon with clean hands and utensils to avoid cross‑contamination.
  • Use oven mitts when handling hot foil and baking sheet.
  • Be careful when pulling pin bones with tweezers to avoid puncturing skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of miso glazed salmon in Japanese cuisine?

A

Miso‑marinated fish became popular in Japan during the late 20th century, especially after Nobu Matsuhisa popularized miso‑black cod in the 1990s. The technique reflects traditional Japanese preservation methods where salty miso acts like a brine, enhancing moisture and flavor.

cultural
Q

What traditional regional variations of miso‑glazed fish exist in Japanese cuisine?

A

In Hokkaido, a richer red miso is used for heartier fish, while in Kyoto lighter white miso pairs with delicate white fish. Some regions add yuzu or citrus zest for brightness, and coastal areas may incorporate kombu dashi in the glaze.

cultural
Q

How is miso glazed salmon traditionally served in Japan?

A

It is often served as a small plate (okazu) alongside steamed rice, pickled vegetables, and a clear dashi broth. The fish is presented whole, skin‑side up, allowing the glossy glaze to shine.

cultural
Q

During what occasions is miso glazed salmon typically enjoyed in Japanese culture?

A

Miso‑glazed fish is a popular choice for celebratory meals such as New Year’s (osechi) and special family gatherings because it looks elegant and offers a balance of sweet and savory flavors.

cultural
Q

What makes miso glazed salmon special within Japanese‑inspired cooking?

A

The miso glaze provides a natural umami boost while acting as a mild brine, keeping the salmon moist and giving it a caramelized, glossy finish that’s both visually striking and flavorful.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making miso glazed salmon?

A

Overcooking the salmon, letting the glaze burn by using too high a temperature for too long, and not removing pin bones can all ruin the dish. Keep a foil tent handy and monitor the internal temperature for best results.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe start the salmon at high heat then lower it, instead of cooking at a single temperature?

A

The initial high heat quickly sears the surface, creating a caramelized crust while the miso glaze begins to set. Lowering the temperature finishes cooking the interior gently, preventing the glaze from burning and keeping the flesh rare‑medium.

technical
Q

Can I make the miso glaze ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the glaze can be prepared up to three days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; bring it to room temperature and whisk before using.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel J. Kenji López‑Alt specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel J. Kenji López‑Alt focuses on science‑based cooking, detailed technique breakdowns, and approachable recipes that bridge restaurant‑level flavor with home‑cook practicality.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel J. Kenji López‑Alt's approach to Japanese‑inspired cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Kenji emphasizes the underlying chemistry of ingredients—like how miso acts as a brine—and often tests multiple methods (pizza oven, broiler, grill) to find the most reliable home technique, whereas many channels simply present a single method.

channel

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