Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Glaze : In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Add cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Salmon Patties ; Finely chop the salmon into small pieces or pulse gently in a food processor. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped salmon, egg, panko, green onions, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Season with salt and pepper. Mix gently until just combined — don’t overmix. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon Patties : Heat a drizzle of oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Brush with teriyaki glaze during the final minute to create a shiny coating.
Step 4: Prepare the Sesame Slaw : In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrot, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and sesame seeds. Toss well until evenly coated. Let rest for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 5: Assemble the Burgers : Lightly toast the buns or rolls. Add a lettuce leaf (optional), then place the teriyaki-glazed salmon patty on the bottom bun. Spoon a generous amount of sesame slaw over the patty. Drizzle extra teriyaki glaze and sprinkle sesame seeds.Cap with the top bun and serve warm.