Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon is a culinary joy that brings a delightful twist to traditional risotto. Imagine creamy rice infused with umami-rich shiitake mushrooms, perfectly complementing the rich flavor of seared salmon. The dish is a symphony of textures and aromas, sure to captivate your palate with every bite.
As I simmered this dish one rainy afternoon, the delicious aroma wafting through my kitchen reminded me of quieter evenings spent with family, savoring comforting meals together. This Japanese Style Risotto is perfect for a cozy dinner party or a weeknight treat; it promises to transport you to culinary bliss with every mouthful.
Why You'll Love This Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon
- This incredible Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon:
3 tbsp olive oil – divided for sautéing and searing, this adds rich flavor to the dish.
10.5 ounces shiitakes – torn into pieces for a savory depth; fresh shiitakes enhance the umami flavor of the risotto.
1 tbsp low sodium soy sauce – brings a salty, umami flavor; opt for low sodium to keep things balanced.
1 small yellow onion – diced to add a sweet and aromatic base to the dish.
1 celery stalk – diced for crunch and additional flavor contrast.
1 garlic clove – minced to infuse the dish with a robust aroma.
1 cup rice – sushi rice or Arborio is ideal for that creamy consistency.
¼ cup dry white wine – or sake, used to deglaze the pan and impart a layer of flavor.
5 cups hot chicken broth – ensures the rice is cooked perfectly while adding depth to the flavor.
1 tbsp white miso paste – enhances the dish with its unique umami profile.
black pepper – for serving, adding a hint of heat.
chives – freshly chopped for a touch of color and flavor.
sesame seeds – for serving, giving a nutty crunch to each bite.
5 tbsp low sodium soy sauce – for marinating the salmon, this packs in flavor.
1 tbsp dry white wine – paired with soy sauce for a savory marinade.
1 tsp brown sugar – balances the flavors in the marinade beautifully.
4 skinless salmon fillets – the star of the dish, offering a deliciously hearty element.
1 tbsp olive oil – for searing the salmon, adding to the dish’s flavorful essence.
1 tbsp unsalted butter – enhances richness and helps achieve a perfect sear on the salmon.
How to Make Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon:
Step 1: Marinate the Salmon
In a shallow dish, mix together the low sodium soy sauce, white wine, and brown sugar. Add the salmon fillets and make sure they are well coated. Let them marinate while you prepare the risotto.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Tear the shiitake mushrooms into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Finely dice the celery, mince the garlic, and chop the onion. These ingredients will form the flavorful base of your risotto.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms
In a heavy-bottomed pot or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over high heat. Add the torn shiitakes and cook until they release moisture and start to brown, approximately 5-7 minutes. Stir in 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and cook for another minute before removing them from the skillet.
Step 4: Cook the Aromatics and Rice
Lower the heat to medium-low and add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced celery, onion, and minced garlic. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant, then stir in the rice and toast it for one minute. Deglaze the pan with the dry white wine, simmering for 2 minutes while scraping up any brown bits.
Step 5: Add Broth Gradually
Begin adding the hot chicken broth, two ladles at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the broth is almost completely absorbed before adding more. Cook until the rice reaches an almost al dente texture, about 15 minutes, adjusting with more broth as needed. Stir in the sautéed shiitakes and dissolve the miso paste in two tablespoons of broth before adding it to the risotto.
Step 6: Sear the Salmon
In a nonstick skillet, heat the remaining olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the marinated salmon fillets and sear on each side for approximately 4 minutes until golden brown.
Transfer your gorgeous Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon to plates, finishing with a sprinkle of black pepper, chives, and sesame seeds for an added touch. Enjoy every bite, and know that each mouthful is a celebration of flavors and textures. Bon appétit!

This showstopping Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon Cooking Process
Begin by marinating the salmon, then prepare your vegetables. Sear the shiitakes before sautéing the aromatics, which will create a flavor base for your risotto. Finally, cook the risotto while your salmon sears for perfect timing.
Add Your Touch to Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon
Feel free to swap shiitakes for other mushrooms like portobello or cremini. For added depth, try incorporating a splash of citrus or fresh herbs like cilantro. You can also switch up the protein with shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Storing & Reheating Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon
Store any leftover risotto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of warm chicken broth to restore creaminess and then microwave or heat in a pan until warm.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon
- This professional-quality Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
I remember the first time I made Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon for my friends. They were completely blown away by the rich flavors and creaminess, demanding I add it to our regular dinner rotation. It truly turned an ordinary weeknight into a special culinary event.

FAQs About Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon
What is Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon?
Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon is a delicious fusion dish that combines traditional Italian risotto techniques with Japanese flavors. Featuring creamy rice, marinated salmon, and umami-rich ingredients like shiitake mushrooms and miso, this dish creates an unforgettable taste experience. The salmon is seared to perfection and served atop a bed of rich, flavorful risotto, making for a striking presentation and an amazing meal that feels both gourmet and comforting.
How long does it take to prepare Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon?
The total time to prepare Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon is about 40 minutes. This includes approximately 10 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes for cooking. The process is streamlined, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something special yet manageable.
Can I customize the ingredients in Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon?
Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to put your own spin on it. You can swap out shiitake mushrooms for other varieties like cremini or portobello to change the flavor profile. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using tofu instead of salmon, and don’t hesitate to add seasonal vegetables or fresh herbs for an extra flavor boost.
What can I serve with Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon?
When serving Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon, consider fresh side dishes that complement the richness of the risotto. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the meal beautifully. Additionally, steamed asparagus or sautéed greens would offer a vibrant contrast. For a drink pairing, a crisp white wine or even a chilled sake can elevate the dining experience.
Conclusion for Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon
Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon is a stunning dish that brings together the best of both culinary worlds. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a cozy night at home. This recipe highlights fresh ingredients and allows for customization, ensuring it can be tailored to one’s taste. Don’t miss out on this delicious fusion that promises to elevate your dining experience.

Japanese Style Risotto with Seared Salmon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the salmon fillets in a shallow dish with soy sauce, white wine, and brown sugar. Coat both sides and set aside.
- Tear shiitakes into small pieces, finely dice the celery stalk, mince the garlic, and finely chop the onion.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil over high heat in a heavy-bottomed pot or skillet. Add shiitakes and cook until they release moisture. Add 1 tablespoon oil and cook until they start to brown. Stir in soy sauce and cook for 1 minute more. Remove from skillet.
- Reduce heat to medium low and add 1 tablespoon oil. Add celery, onion, and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant. Add rice and toast for 1 minute. Deglaze with white wine, simmer for 2 minutes while scraping up the brown bits from the bottom using a wooden spoon.
- Add 2 ladles of chicken broth at a time, stirring frequently, until the broth has been almost completely absorbed before adding the next 2 ladles. Cook until the rice is almost al dente, about 15 minutes. You may not need to use all of the broth. Stir in the shiitakes. Dissolve miso with 2 tablespoons of hot broth and add to the risotto. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the risotto is ready, adding more broth if needed.
- Meanwhile, prepare the salmon. Heat oil and butter over medium high in a nonstick skillet. Add salmon and sear for 4 minutes per side.
- Serve the salmon over risotto, topped with black pepper, chives, and sesame seeds.






