There’s something magical about a glossy, sweet-savory sauce that can transform even the simplest meal into something special. This homemade Teriyaki Sauce does exactly that—it’s cozy, flavorful, and unbelievably easy to make with just a handful of pantry staples.
Forget store-bought bottles—once you try making your own, you’ll see just how much fresher and tastier it is. Whether you’re glazing grilled chicken, tossing it with stir-fried veggies, or drizzling it over rice bowls, this sauce adds instant comfort and flavor to any meal.
Recipe Info
| Field | Info |
|---|---|
| Category | Sauce / Condiment |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Servings | 1 ½ cups (about 6 servings) |
| Calories | ~60 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- ½ cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon sesame oil for added depth
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Combine the base
In a medium saucepan, whisk together soy sauce, water, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. - Bring to a simmer
Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. - Thicken the sauce
In a small bowl, stir cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk this into the simmering sauce. - Cook until glossy
Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens and becomes shiny. - Finish & cool
Stir in sesame oil (if using), then remove from heat. Allow to cool slightly before serving or storing.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Consistency matters: If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a splash of water to loosen it.
- Storage: Store in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 1 week. Reheat gently before using.
- Make ahead: This sauce can also be frozen in small portions for quick weeknight meals.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy kick: Add 1 teaspoon sriracha or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Sweeter version: Use pineapple juice instead of water for a tropical twist.
- Lighter option: Swap honey for maple syrup and reduce sugar by half.
Serving Suggestions
- Brush over grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp for a glossy glaze.
- Toss with stir-fried vegetables and rice for a quick dinner.
- Use as a dipping sauce for dumplings, spring rolls, or skewers.
- Drizzle over roasted veggies for extra flavor.
Conclusion
This homemade Teriyaki Sauce is proof that big flavor doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a cozy, versatile sauce that elevates any dish. Keep a jar in your fridge, and you’ll always have a little burst of comfort and flavor ready to go.