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Teriyaki sauce is perfect for grilled meats and vegetables

Teriyaki Sauce

Sweet, savory, and glossy, teriyaki sauce is a versatile Japanese glaze perfect for meats, veggies, and stir-fries. Easy to make at home with simple ingredients!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 11 minutes
Course Sauce
Cuisine Japanese
Servings 8

Nutrition

Calories: 35kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 1g

Ingredients
  

Westernized version

  • ½ cup (120ml) soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
  • ¼ cup (60ml) water
  • 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil optional for extra flavor
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
  • ½ tsp sesame seeds optional, for garnish
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for spice

Authentic version

  • ¼ cup (60ml) soy sauce (preferably Japanese shoyu)
  • ¼ cup (60ml) mirin (sweet Japanese rice wine)
  • 2 tbsp sake
  • 1 tbsp sugar preferably raw or brown sugar

Instructions
 

Westernized version

  • In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, water, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir well.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
  • In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp water to create a slurry.
  • Slowly pour the slurry into the saucepan while stirring continuously. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  • Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. If desired, stir in sesame seeds and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
  • Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Authentic version

  • In a small saucepan, add soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
  • Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
  • Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and develop a glossy texture. (No cornstarch needed—mirin naturally thickens the sauce!)
  • Once slightly thickened, remove from heat. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.

Notes

  • Add an extra tablespoon of honey or brown sugar for a sweeter sauce
  • Substitute sake with dry sherry or Chinese cooking wine.
  • If you prefer a thinner consistency, reduce the cornstarch or add a bit more water.
Keyword easy Japanese recipes, easy sauce recipe, homemade japanese recipe, homemade sauce
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