OK, I am never going to buy bottled teriyaki sauce again. (Of course I might have to if I’m traveling, but if I’m at home, there is no reason to spend the money or to settle for a product that is less than perfect.) Because in making this dish the other evening, I was blown away by the complex flavor in this simple recipe for teriyaki sauce.

Now one thing you should know. This is an Emeril Lagasse recipe. And if I had the opportunity, I would kiss his toes. He really understands food. So after saying that, I need to give full disclosure. I changed his recipe to fit my way of preparing food. (Now there’s a new concept, right?!?!)

But truly, any way you look at it, this is a dish fit for the Gods. It’s simple. It’s delicious. It’s NW cuisine at its finest. (Well NW with an inspired Asian (via New Orleans) influence.) Just make it soon. It is over the top amazing. Thank you dear Emeril.

1/3 c. mirin or rice wine

½ c. soy sauce

1 T. sugar

2 tsp. minced gingerroot

1 garlic clove, minced

pinch cayenne

2 (6-7-oz.) halibut fillets

minced green onions, as garnish

Combine the mirin, soy sauce, sugar, ginger, garlic, and cayenne in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer until reduced to a syrup like consistency, 5 to 6 minutes. Remove from heat. (Don’t reduce too much.)

Pour a thin layer of the sauce/syrup in the bottom of a lightly greased baking pan. Place the halibut fillets skin side up in the sauce. Marinate for 1 hour.

After an hour bake the halibut in a pre-heated 400 degree oven for 12-15 minutes or until the flesh is opaque and the internal temperature has reached 140 degrees. Remove from oven and serve flesh side up garnished with green onions. Pass the remaining teriyaki sauce. Great with Asian Flavored Steamed Rice (on this site) and a steamed green veggie.

All I can say is – don’t be daft! Make the sauce, but at least double the recipe. This is truly the teriyaki sauce you have always dreamed of. But if you are like me, never quite achieved!

So Emeril, you Asian (not) darling – thank you. I shall forever be in your debt. And if you ever desire a Camano Island experience, we (Mr. C. and I) are here for you! Mi casa es tu casa!