Teriyaki Sauce

Homemade teriyaki sauce is quick to prepare with soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey. This easy recipe makes a thick, flavorful glaze perfect for chicken, salmon, stir-fries, rice bowls, and burgers. A versatile Asian-inspired sauce that can be stored in the fridge and used for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

• ½ cup (128 g) low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon (60 g) light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ¾ teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (slurry) (or substitute flour)
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, honey, ginger, garlic, cornstarch slurry, and red pepper flakes.
2. Cook the sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
3. Thicken: Let it boil for about 1 minute, or until the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
4. Cool and store: Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Transfer to a jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for 1–2 weeks.

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Tips

• Stir continuously while the sauce is cooking to prevent lumps from the cornstarch slurry.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, whisk in 1–2 tablespoons of water to loosen it.
• For a stronger garlic or ginger flavor, add freshly grated ginger and extra minced garlic.
• Use low-sodium soy sauce to balance the saltiness.

Variations and Substitutions

• Sweetness: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave for a slightly different flavor.
• Heat: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a spicier version.
• Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Thickener: Arrowroot powder can replace cornstarch for a glossy finish.

FAQs

Can I freeze teriyaki sauce?
Yes, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and whisk before using.

Why is my sauce too salty?
Use low-sodium soy sauce, and balance the flavor by adding a splash of water or extra honey.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just scale up the ingredients. Cooking time will be slightly longer.

Serving Suggestions

• Teriyaki Chicken: Perfect as a glaze or marinade.
• Teriyaki Salmon Bowl: Drizzle over rice, salmon, and steamed vegetables.
• Hawaiian Bowls: Pair with grilled pineapple, rice, and chicken.
• Burgers and Sandwiches: Brush onto hamburgers, grilled chicken sandwiches, or turkey burgers, topped with pineapple rings.
• Stir-Fries: Toss with noodles, vegetables, or tofu for a quick dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in just minutes.
• Made with simple pantry ingredients.
• Perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.
• Versatile: works as a marinade, glaze, dip, or stir-fry sauce.
• Healthier and fresher than store-bought bottled versions.