There’s something about homemade teriyaki sauce that just hits different—like a nostalgic melody you can’t quite place. Maybe it’s the way the soy sauce and sugar mingle, creating that perfect balance of savory and sweet, or perhaps it’s the memories of a long-lost summer barbecue when the world was simpler. Whatever it is, this easy recipe is your ticket to that unforgettable flavor, and it’s ready in no time.
Steps
- Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients for the teriyaki sauce. Ensure you have water, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, ground ginger, garlic powder, cornstarch, and more cold water on hand.
- In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, ginger, and garlic powder. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until it is almost warmed through, which should take about one minute.
- In a separate cup, mix the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water. Stir until the cornstarch is completely dissolved, then add this mixture to the saucepan.
- Continue cooking and stirring the sauce over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, until it has reached your desired thickness.
- Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool. Your homemade teriyaki sauce is now ready to be used as a glaze, marinade, or stir-fry sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 5 teaspoons packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey (or more, to taste)
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ cup cold water
Nutritional Values
Calories: 240 | Total Fat: 0g | Saturated Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 3516mg | Total Carbohydrate: 60g | Dietary Fiber: 0g | Total Sugars: 36g | Protein: 0g | Vitamin C: 0mg | Calcium: 48mg | Iron: 0mg | Potassium: 336mg
FAQ
- What is teriyaki sauce used for?
- Teriyaki sauce is a versatile culinary tool that can be used as a marinade, glaze, or dipping sauce. It enhances the flavor of dishes like stir-fries, steaks, and seafood with its sweet and savory profile.
- What ingredients are typically found in traditional teriyaki sauce?
- Authentic teriyaki sauce is made from a blend of soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and sake. Western variations often add honey, garlic, and ginger for extra flavor.
- How do you thicken teriyaki sauce?
- To thicken teriyaki sauce, a common method is to use cornstarch. Mix cornstarch with a cold liquid to create a slurry, and then incorporate it into the sauce mixture.
- How long can homemade teriyaki sauce be stored?
- Homemade teriyaki sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. It’s best to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
- How is teriyaki sauce made from scratch?
- Making homemade teriyaki sauce involves combining soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, spices, cornstarch, and water in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens, then let it cool before using.
Tips
- For a smoother and thicker teriyaki sauce, dissolve cornstarch in cold water to make a slurry before adding it to the sauce mixture. This prevents lumps and ensures an even consistency.
- To extend the freshness of your homemade teriyaki sauce, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be cautious with added ingredients like garlic or herbs, as they may reduce its shelf life.
- Customize the sauce to your liking by adjusting the sweetness or thickness. You can increase the honey for more sweetness or add more cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker consistency.
- When using the sauce as a marinade, allow proteins like chicken or beef to soak for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor absorption.
Equipment
- Saucepan – If you don’t have an appropriate one for cooking sauces.
- Airtight Containers – For storing the homemade teriyaki sauce.
