1️⃣ Prepare the marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sake, mirin, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper until the sugar is fully dissolved.

2️⃣ Marinate the salmon
Add the salmon cubes and gently toss to coat. Marinate in the sake, mirin, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and  pepper for up to 20 minutes—just enough time to build flavor while keeping the texture firm and clean.

3️⃣ Preheat the oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

4️⃣ Prepare the salmon
Remove the salmon from the marinade and arrange the cubes on the baking sheet, spacing slightly apart. Lightly pat the tops dry with a paper towel to remove excess surface moisture.

👉 This step helps maximize caramelization.

5️⃣ Bake and broil
Bake for 10–14 minutes, until just cooked through and tender. Then broil for 1–2 minutes, if desired, to lightly crisp the tops—watch closely as this happens quickly.

6️⃣ Finish
Layer over a whole grain with vegetables and finish with scallions and sesame seeds, if using—try adding my Korean cucumber salad for a fresh, crisp contrast.