Korean BBQ Salmon Skewers

Name: Korean BBQ Salmon Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb salmon fillet (skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes); Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes); 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon Korean red pepper paste (gochujang); 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional); 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon cold water; chopped green onions (optional garnish)

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Take a look at this incredibly delicious salmon dish: Korean BBQ Salmon Skewers. This recipe blends savory salmon with bold Korean flavors like soy sauce, sesame, and a touch of gochujang. Grilled to perfection, it offers a satisfying meal that's perfect for your next barbecue!

Korean bbq salmon hero image close up of skewers with garnish

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Korean BBQ Salmon is a modern dish that blends traditional Korean barbecue with the tender, flaky salmon. While salmon is not native to Korea, this dish adapts Korean BBQ techniques—marinating in soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and gochujang (Korean red pepper paste)—to create a unique and savory marinade.

If you like this seafood recipe, you may also love our Cast Iron Salmon: Blackened or our Salmon Burgers.

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Why We Love This Recipe
Ingredients
Substitutions & Variations
How to Make Korean BBQ Salmon
Expert Tips for Success
Storage
Recipe FAQs
More Asian Recipes You'll Love ♥️
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Why We Love This Recipe

Flavorful: The marriage of soy sauce, sesame, and gochujang creates a delicious flavor profile.
Quick Prep: Ready in minutes, perfect for busy families.
Versatile: Ideal for grilling or baking, adapting easily to your cooking style.

Ingredients

Salmon: We used a fresh farm-raised salmon that was raise in aquifer water free of mercury and microplastics. Wild-caught salmon works well, too. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
Soy Sauce: Adds salty umami flavor.
Brown Sugar: Provides sweetness.
Honey: Provides natural sweetness and caramelization.
Sesame Oil: For a nutty richness.
Garlic: Minced for added flavor.
Ginger: Adds a kick.
Rice Vinegar: For acidity.
Korean Red Pepper Paste (Gochujang): Lends spicy heat and depth.
Sesame Seeds (optional): For a nutty garnish.

A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.

Substitutions & Variations

Gochujang: Replace with sriracha for a spicier kick.
Honey: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor.
Presentation: Serve with this Jasmine Rice Instant Pot Recipe or with a side of kimchi.

How to Make Korean BBQ Salmon

Korean bbq salmon process shot 1 preparing marinate

STEP ONE: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, Korean red pepper paste (gochujang), and sesame oil. Whisk until the sugar has dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.

Korean bbq salmon process shot 2 marinating the salmon.

STEP TWO: Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon cubes in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the prepared Korean BBQ sauce over the salmon, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. For deeper flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours.

Korean bbq salmon process shot 3 threading salmon on skewers.

STEP THREE: Grill or Bake the Salmon

Grilling Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated salmon cubes onto soaked bamboo skewers. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, basting with reserved marinade during the last few minutes of cooking.

Oven Method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place salmon skewers on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, basting halfway through with marinade, until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Korean bbq salmon feature image with garnish on top over rice with a side of green beans.

STEP FOUR: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, remove salmon skewers from grill or oven. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Pair with steamed rice and your favorite Asian-inspired sides.

Expert Tips for Success

👩‍🍳Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and meal prep hacks!

✔️ DO Marinate the salmon for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to maximize flavor.
✔️ DO Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and ensure it's well-oiled to prevent sticking.
✔️ DO Leave a bit of space between each piece of salmon when threading on the skewers.
✔️ DO Baste the salmon with marinade during the last few minutes of cooking.

Storage

Store leftover Korean BBQ Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This dish is not freezer-friendly. To reheat leftovers, gently warm the salmon in a covered baking dish in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

Recipe FAQs

Is salmon common in Korea?

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What pairs will with Korean salmon?

Korean BBQ Salmon pairs well with a variety of sides. In Korean cuisine, it is often served with steamed rice, kimchi, pickled vegetables (banchan), and lettuce leaves for wrapping. It can also be enjoyed with roasted vegetables or noodles like soba or udon.

What temperature should salmon be?

Salmon should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. At this temperature, the salmon will be opaque and flake easily with a fork, indicating that it is fully cooked and ready to enjoy.