Authentic Japanese Teriyaki Sauce

Name: Authentic Japanese Teriyaki Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 1/4 cup sake; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated); 1 clove garlic (minced)

15 min 8 servings Easy

All Recipes

Learn to make a classic Japanese Teriyaki Sauce that's perfect for glazing and marinating your favourite dishes.

Prep

5 min

Cook

10 min

Total

15 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Japanese Teriyaki Sauce is a staple in Japanese cuisine, known for its glossy finish and umami-rich taste. This version stays true to traditional flavours, using a simple blend of soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. It's perfect for those who enjoy the balance of sweet and savoury in their dishes. Whether you're planning to glaze grilled meats or enhance a vegetable stir-fry, this homemade sauce brings authentic Japanese flavours to your kitchen. It's also versatile enough to be used as a marinade, ensuring that every bite is infused with deliciousness.

Instructions

Combine ingredients

In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar.

Pro tip: Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.

Add aromatics

Stir in grated ginger and minced garlic, mixing well.

Pro tip: Fresh ginger adds a vibrant flavour compared to ground ginger.

Heat the mixture

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to dissolve the sugar completely.

Simmer the sauce

Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, until slightly thickened.

Pro tip: Do not let the sauce boil too vigorously to prevent burning.

Check consistency

Test the sauce's consistency by dipping a spoon; it should coat the back lightly.

Pro tip: If too thick, add a splash of water to loosen.

Cool and store

Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to a storage container.

Pro tip: Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh ginger for the best flavour.
Adjust the sugar to taste if you prefer a sweeter sauce.
Simmer gently to avoid burning the sugars.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Japanese teriyaki sauce?

Japanese teriyaki sauce is a sweet and savoury glaze made from soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar, often used for marinating and glazing meats.

How do you make authentic Japanese teriyaki sauce?

Combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, ginger, and garlic in a saucepan. Simmer until slightly thickened.

Can teriyaki sauce be made in advance?

Yes, teriyaki sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

What can I use instead of sake in teriyaki sauce?

You can substitute sake with an equal amount of dry sherry or additional mirin for a non-alcoholic option.

Is teriyaki sauce gluten-free?

Traditional teriyaki sauce is not gluten-free due to soy sauce. Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Teriyaki Sauce as a glaze on grilled chicken, beef, or salmon, or use it to marinate tofu for a vegetarian option. Pair it with steamed rice and a side of pickled vegetables for a complete meal. This sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, making it a convenient addition to your meal prep routine. Simply store it in an airtight container and give it a good shake before use.

Nutrition per serving

Calories

Protein

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