Homemade Teriyaki Sauce: Quick, Easy Japanese Flavor in 15 Minutes

Homemade Teriyaki Sauce & Marinade: The Ultimate Asian Flavor Booster

This incredibly versatile teriyaki sauce recipe delivers authentic Japanese-inspired flavors in just minutes. Perfect for marinating meats, glazing seafood, or drizzling over stir-fries, this homemade sauce outshines any bottled version with its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Teriyaki Recipe

While store-bought teriyaki sauces are convenient, nothing compares to the fresh flavors and customizable elements of homemade. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweet honey, salty soy sauce, and aromatic ginger and garlic—creating that signature teriyaki taste that elevates any dish it touches.

Plus, you likely have all these ingredients in your pantry already!

The Secret to Perfect Teriyaki Flavor

The word “teriyaki” comes from the Japanese terms “teri” (shine) and “yaki” (grill)—referring to the glossy glaze this sauce creates. The key to authentic teriyaki lies in balancing five essential flavor components:

• Soy sauce – Provides the salty, umami base
• Sweeteners – Honey and brown sugar create caramelization
• Acid – Rice vinegar balances the sweetness
• Aromatics – Fresh ginger and garlic add depth
• Sesame – Both oil and seeds contribute nutty undertones

Ingredients You’ll Need

• ½ cup soy sauce (regular or low-sodium)
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

How to Make Authentic Teriyaki Sauce

1. Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan, whisking well to ensure the honey and brown sugar dissolve completely.
2. Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature before using as a marinade or sauce.
5. For thicker sauce (ideal for glazing or dipping), continue simmering for 2-3 additional minutes.

Pro Tips for Perfect Teriyaki

• For a thicker consistency: Mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water and add to the simmering sauce.
• Low-sodium option: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce and adjust sweetness as needed.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha.
• Shelf life: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Ways to Use Your Homemade Teriyaki

As a Marinade

For proteins like chicken, beef, salmon, or tofu, marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor penetration). The natural sugars in the sauce will caramelize beautifully when grilled or broiled.

As a Glaze

Brush onto meats or vegetables during the final minutes of cooking for a glossy, flavorful finish. The sauce will thicken and create that signature “teri” shine.

As a Stir-Fry Sauce

Add to your wok in the final stages of cooking to coat stir-fried vegetables and proteins in rich, savory flavor.

As a Dipping Sauce

Serve alongside potstickers, spring rolls, or tempura for an irresistible appetizer experience.

Nutrition Information

Teriyaki: A Timeless Japanese Classic Made Easy at Home

With this simple recipe, you can create restaurant-quality teriyaki sauce at home in just 15 minutes. The complex flavors develop as the sauce simmers, creating the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami notes that define authentic teriyaki. Whether you’re marinating chicken for the grill, glazing salmon fillets, or adding a flavorful finish to your vegetable stir-fry, this versatile teriyaki recipe will become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.