Easy Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
Teriyaki sauce is a versatile Japanese condiment that adds a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors to any dish. Skip the store-bought versions loaded with preservatives and artificial ingredients—this authentic recipe requires just a few pantry staples and takes only minutes to prepare.
Instructions
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Combine Ingredients
In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. If using any optional add-ins such as honey, grated ginger, or minced garlic, add them now as well.
Chef's Tip: Use high-quality Japanese soy sauce for the most authentic flavor. The difference is noticeable!
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Heat and Dissolve
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves, about 1-2 minutes.
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Reduce the Sauce
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce reduces slightly and begins to thicken naturally. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon but still be relatively thin at this stage.
Note: Traditional teriyaki sauce is not very thick. It will thicken further as it cools and when used in cooking.
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Thicken (Optional)
For a thicker, glaze-like consistency: In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water until smooth. While the sauce is simmering, slowly add the cornstarch mixture to the sauce, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
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Cool and Store
Remove from heat and allow to cool completely. Transfer to a clean, airtight container or glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Storage: Homemade teriyaki sauce will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The sauce may thicken when cold; simply warm it gently before using if needed.
Teriyaki Sauce Variations
Spicy Teriyaki
Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha sauce or 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes to the basic recipe.
Citrus Teriyaki
Add 1-2 tablespoons of fresh orange or pineapple juice and 1 teaspoon of zest for a bright, citrusy twist.
Sesame Teriyaki
Add 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil and 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds after removing from heat.
Green Onion Teriyaki
Stir in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped green onions after the sauce has cooled slightly.
10 Ways to Use Teriyaki Sauce
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Teriyaki Chicken
Marinate chicken pieces for 30 minutes, then grill, bake, or stir-fry. Brush with additional sauce during cooking for extra flavor and glaze.
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Teriyaki Salmon
Brush salmon fillets with teriyaki sauce and bake or grill until just cooked through. Serve with extra sauce drizzled on top.
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Vegetable Stir-Fry
Toss stir-fried vegetables with teriyaki sauce in the last minute of cooking for a quick and flavorful side dish.
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Teriyaki Beef
Marinate thinly sliced beef for 1-2 hours, then quickly sear in a hot pan or grill for delicious teriyaki beef.
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Teriyaki Tofu
Press firm tofu to remove excess moisture, marinate in teriyaki sauce, then bake or pan-fry until crispy on the outside.
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Teriyaki Meatballs
Mix teriyaki sauce into ground meat (beef, chicken, or turkey) before forming into meatballs, then bake and brush with additional sauce.
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Teriyaki Burger Glaze
Brush burgers with teriyaki sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for an Asian-inspired twist.
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Teriyaki Rice Bowl
Drizzle over a bowl of steamed rice topped with your choice of protein and vegetables.
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Teriyaki Noodles
Toss cooked udon or soba noodles with teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, and your favorite vegetables.
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Teriyaki Dipping Sauce
Use as a dipping sauce for potstickers, spring rolls, or tempura vegetables.
The History of Teriyaki
Teriyaki is a cooking technique that originated in Japan, where "teri" refers to the shine or luster given by the sugar in the sauce, and "yaki" refers to the cooking method of grilling or broiling. Traditional Japanese teriyaki is most commonly used with fish, particularly mackerel, salmon, trout, and yellowtail.
The sauce as we know it today, especially in Western countries, has evolved from its Japanese origins. The addition of ingredients like garlic, ginger, and thickeners is largely a Western adaptation. In Japan, teriyaki is more about the cooking technique rather than the specific sauce.
When Japanese immigrants arrived in Hawaii in the 19th century, they adapted their traditional cooking methods to incorporate local ingredients, giving birth to the Hawaiian-style teriyaki that features pineapple juice and sometimes ginger—a variation that has become quite popular globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between teriyaki sauce and soy sauce?
Soy sauce is a primary ingredient in teriyaki sauce, but teriyaki sauce includes additional ingredients like mirin, sake, and sugar that give it a sweeter, thicker consistency and more complex flavor profile.
Do I really need both mirin and sake?
For the most authentic flavor, yes. Mirin provides sweetness and a distinct flavor, while sake adds depth. However, you can make substitutions as noted in our substitutions section if these ingredients aren't available.
Can I make this sauce gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) instead of regular soy sauce. Be sure to check that your mirin and sake are also gluten-free, as some brands may contain trace amounts.
How long will homemade teriyaki sauce last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade teriyaki sauce will last up to 2 weeks. Look for any signs of spoilage before using if it's been stored for a while.
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Comments
Thomas Wilson
5 days agoI've been buying store-bought teriyaki sauce for years and never realized how easy it is to make! This recipe is amazing and tastes so much better than anything from a bottle. I added some ginger and garlic and used it for chicken skewers.
Aiko Yamada
2 weeks agoAs a Japanese person living abroad, I really appreciate this authentic recipe! The proportions are perfect, and it reminds me of home. I recommend using Japanese soy sauce if you can find it, as it makes a noticeable difference in flavor.