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Homemade Teriyaki Sauce Recipe

This recipe is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey creating a rich, glossy sauce that elevates any dish.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 29
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 4 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar
  • ½ cup soy sauce or coconut aminos for gluten-free
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 2 teaspoons fresh garlic minced
  • ½ –1 teaspoon fresh ginger minced
  • Slurry: 2 tablespoons cornstarch + ¼ cup cold water

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Small bowl (for slurry)
  • Airtight container or jar (for storage)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Slurry.
    In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons cornstarch and ¼ cup cold water until smooth. Set aside. This will be your thickening agent.
  2. Combine the Base Ingredients.
    In a medium saucepan, whisk together the water, sesame oil, brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Place over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to help dissolve the sugar and evenly blend the flavors.
  3. Add the Slurry.
    Once the mixture is simmering, slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry while whisking continuously. This ensures it incorporates smoothly without forming lumps.
  4. Simmer Until Thickened.
    Continue whisking as the sauce simmers. After 3–5 minutes, you’ll notice the sauce beginning to thicken and turn glossy. Keep simmering until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember, it will thicken a little more as it cools.
  5. Cool & Store.
    Remove the pan from the heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly. Use immediately as a glaze or stir-fry sauce, or transfer to a jar and refrigerate for later use.

Notes

Variations
Sweeter Sauce – add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or honey.
Bolder Flavor – stir in an additional tablespoon of soy sauce for more saltiness.
Spicy Kick – add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
Citrusy Twist – mix in a splash of orange juice for a fresh flavor note.