Homemade Teriyaki Sauce

This Homemade Teriyaki Sauce is sweet, savory, and perfectly balanced, making it a versatile addition to a variety of dishes. It’s quick to make, uses simple ingredients, and can transform everyday meals into flavorful Asian-inspired creations.

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Ingredients

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

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Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients:
   Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, honey, ginger, garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes to a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Thicken the Sauce:
   Stir in the cornstarch slurry. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Boil for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
3. Cool and Store:
   Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1–2 weeks.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 10 minutes.
• Versatile: Perfect for chicken, salmon, stir-fries, bowls, and even burgers.
• Customizable: Sweetness, heat, and thickness can be adjusted to taste.
• Healthy and homemade: Free from preservatives and additives found in store-bought sauces.

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Tips

• Stir constantly while boiling to prevent burning.
• Adjust thickness by adding more cornstarch slurry for a thicker sauce or more liquid for a thinner glaze.
• Taste and adjust sweetness or saltiness after boiling if needed.
• For extra flavor, let the sauce cool completely — the flavors intensify over time.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Sweetener swap: Use maple syrup, agave, or coconut sugar instead of honey.
• Gluten-free: Use tamari in place of soy sauce.
• Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha.
• Garlic-ginger boost: Increase garlic to 2 cloves or ginger to 1 tsp for more punch.

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FAQs

How long will this sauce last?
Stored in the fridge, it keeps well for 1–2 weeks in an airtight container.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze in small portions for up to 3 months and thaw before use.

Can I use this as a marinade?
Absolutely! Marinate meats, tofu, or vegetables for at least 30 minutes before cooking for enhanced flavor.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Teriyaki Chicken: Glaze grilled or baked chicken with this sauce.
• Salmon Bowls: Drizzle over pan-seared or baked salmon served with rice and vegetables.
• Hawaiian Bowls: Combine with rice, pineapple, and your favorite protein.
• Burgers & Sandwiches: Add a ring of grilled pineapple and a drizzle of sauce over burgers or sandwiches for a sweet-savory kick.
• Stir-Fries: Toss vegetables and protein in the sauce for a quick weeknight meal.