Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
This teriyaki sauce is sweet, savory, and full of flavor. It turns simple chicken, beef, tofu, or veggies into something mouthwatering.
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Garlic press or microplane
- Jar or container with lid
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup soy sauce low-sodium preferred
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water for mixing with cornstarch
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Main Ingredients
- In a small saucepan, pour in 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup water, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon sesame oil.
- Add in the minced garlic and grated ginger.
- Stir everything together with a whisk until the sugar looks mostly dissolved.
- Pro Tip: Use low heat while mixing to avoid burning the sugar or garlic.
Step 2: Heat the Sauce
- Place the saucepan over medium heat.
- Bring the mixture to a light simmer — not a full boil. Stir often so nothing sticks to the bottom.
- Let it simmer for about 2–3 minutes, just to help the flavors blend and the garlic/ginger soften.
- Pro Tip: If it starts bubbling too fast, lower the heat — slow simmering keeps the flavor smooth and balanced.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
- In a small bowl or cup, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water. Stir it until smooth — no lumps!
- Slowly pour this cornstarch mixture into the simmering sauce while whisking constantly.
- Pro Tip: Whisk continuously to prevent lumps and make the sauce silky smooth.
Step 4: Simmer Until Thickened
- Keep cooking the sauce for another 2–3 minutes, still stirring, until it thickens to your liking.
- You’ll know it’s ready when it looks glossy and coats the back of a spoon.
- Pro Tip: The sauce will thicken a little more as it cools, so don’t overcook it.
Step 5: Cool and Store
- Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using or storing.
- Pour into a clean jar or airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to one week.
Notes
Nutritional Value (Per Serving — about 3 tablespoons)
- Calories: ~90
- Carbohydrates: ~18g
- Sugars: ~13g
- Sodium: ~700mg
- Fat: ~2g
- Protein: ~1g
The nutritional information provided on this website is an estimate only and is intended for general guidance. We cannot guarantee its accuracy and recommend consulting a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition advice.