This is my go-to teriyaki sauce recipe that’s perfect for marinating, stir-frying, dipping, and grilling!
Teriyaki Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch)
Instructions
- Combine the base: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, sake, and brown sugar. The rich colors will blend into a beautiful amber liquid that’s already irresistible!
- Add aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. These fragrant additions will elevate your sauce from good to extraordinary.
- Simmer and reduce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the sauce starting to thicken slightly and the aroma becoming more intense.
- Adjust consistency (optional): For a medium consistency perfect for multiple uses, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth. Slowly whisk this slurry into the simmering sauce and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
- Cool and store: Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. Your homemade teriyaki sauce will keep for up to two weeks, ready for all your culinary adventures!
Serving Suggestions
- As a marinade: Coat your favorite protein (chicken, beef, tofu, or fish) and let it soak up the flavors for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- For stir-frying: Add a splash to your wok for an instant flavor boost to vegetables and meats.
- As a dipping sauce: Serve alongside grilled meats, tempura, or fresh spring rolls for a delightful appetizer.
- For grilling: Brush onto skewers, burgers, or vegetables in the last few minutes of grilling for a caramelized glaze.
Pro Tip: To adjust the consistency for different uses, simply simmer the sauce for longer to thicken it or add a bit of water to thin it out. The versatility of this recipe is what makes it a staple in my kitchen!
Ready to take your cooking to the next level? Try this teriyaki sauce recipe and watch as it becomes your secret weapon in the kitchen. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a backyard BBQ, this sauce will never let you down.
