Homemade Teriyaki Sauce (Takes 5 Minutes!)

My homemade teriyaki sauce is the perfect balance of sweet and savory! The end result is a thick, flavorful sauce that tastes far better than anything store-bought. Plus, it’s nice to know where all the ingredients came from.

Everything comes together in just a few minutes on the stovetop, and the cornstarch slurry thickens the sauce to that classic, silky consistency. It’s easy to adjust, too – add red pepper flakes for a little heat or leave them out for a milder version the whole family can enjoy. Want it sweeter? Add a little more brown sugar!

This teriyaki sauce is incredibly versatile. Use it as a marinade for chicken, salmon, or beef, toss it with stir-fried vegetables or noodles, or brush it over grilled meats for a glossy glaze. It also makes a delicious drizzle for rice bowls or a dipping sauce for appetizers. Once you make it from scratch, you’ll want to keep a jar in your fridge at all times.

Ingredients:

• Soy Sauce: Forms the savory, umami-rich base of the sauce and provides its classic deep color.
• Mirin: Adds a mild sweetness and subtle tang that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce.
• Brown Sugar: Brings warm sweetness and helps create that glossy, caramelized finish.
• Fresh Ginger: Be sure to use fresh ginger for this! It is so inexpensive and arguably one of the biggest flavor additions to teriyaki sauce. It adds brightness and a gentle spice that keeps the sauce from tasting too heavy.
• Garlic: Gives bold, aromatic depth and enhances the overall savory flavor.
• Sesame Oil: Contributes a rich, nutty undertone that rounds out the sauce.
• Sesame Seeds: Add light texture and an extra layer of nutty flavor.
• Water + Cornstarch Mixture: Thickens the sauce to achieve that smooth, silky, restaurant-style consistency.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): Provide a subtle kick of heat for those who enjoy a little spice.

Homemade Teriyaki Sauce (Takes 5 Minutes!)

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5 from 1 review

• Author: Kyrié the Foodié
• Total Time: 5 minutes

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Description

This homemade teriyaki sauce is a rich, glossy blend of sweet and savory flavors with garlic, ginger, and sesame that’s perfect for glazing, marinating, or drizzling over your favorite dishes.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup soy sauce (tamari for gluten-free option)
• 1/3 cup mirin
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup water mixed with 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• Optional: 1/2 tablespoon roasted sesame seeds and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (omit if you don’t like spice)

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Instructions

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. In a separate bowl, mix the water and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan while stirring continuously. Simmer for 4 – 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
3. Add sesame oil and sesame seeds.
4. Remove from heat and store in an airtight container or jar for 1 – 2 weeks.

• Cook Time: 5 minutes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: ~1¼ cups of sauce