Teriyaki Sauce Recipe
With just a few simple ingredients, this simple homemade teriyaki sauce recipe creates a rich and flavorful sauce that enhances any Asian dish. Whether making a delicious stir fry or marinating your favorite protein, this versatile sauce is your secret ingredient for transforming everyday meals into gourmet experiences.

Ready to bring a touch of gourmet flair to your kitchen? This homemade teriyaki sauce is not only incredibly easy to make but also packed with layers of savory goodness. In just a few minutes, you can create a sauce that’s perfect for glazing, marinating, or adding to your favorite stir-fry. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how you can elevate your dishes with this simple, yet delicious, homemade teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients
- Soy sauce
- Light brown sugar
- Rice wine (or rice vinegar as a substitute)
- Honey
- Cornstarch
- Fresh ginger
- Sesame oil
- Fresh garlic

Directions
- In a microwave-safe mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, rice wine, honey, ginger, sesame oil, and garlic.
- Whisk the mixture well and microwave for 1 minute. Stir, then microwave for an additional 1 minute.
- Dissolve cornstarch in water and add to the bowl. Whisk until well combined. Microwave for 3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Use the sauce immediately or let it cool before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Tips and Tricks
- For a Lower Sodium Option: Substitute tamari for soy sauce. It’s a great way to enjoy teriyaki without the extra sodium.
- Sweetness Adjustments: Dark brown sugar can make the sauce sweeter; if preferred, reduce the amount slightly.
- Ginger Alternatives: Ground ginger can replace fresh ginger, though use 1 teaspoon ground ginger for every 2 teaspoons fresh ginger to maintain flavor.
- Stovetop Preparation: Simmer all ingredients except the cornstarch and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until thickened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Storage Tips: Freeze leftover sauce in a mason jar or airtight container for up to 3 months.
Variations
- For a Tangier Twist: Add a splash of rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar to the sauce.
- Sweet and Spicy: Incorporate red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce.

Ways to Use Your Teriyaki Sauce
- Marinade for Grilling: Combine with pineapple juice for a tangy marinade that’s perfect for chicken, beef, or tofu. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
- Stir-Fry Sauce: Drizzle over your favorite stir-fried vegetables and proteins for an umami-packed flavor boost.
- Glaze for Roasting: Brush over vegetables like broccoli or carrots during the last few minutes of roasting to create a shiny, caramelized glaze.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve as a dipping sauce for chicken nuggets, appetizers such as spring rolls, or chicken skewers. Enhance with a splash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor.
- Salad Dressing: Mix with olive oil and honey for a simple, delicious salad dressing that pairs beautifully with mixed greens and grilled proteins.
Teriyaki Sauce Recipe
Perfect for stir-fries, marinades, and more, this homemade teriyaki sauce will elevate any dish to gourmet status!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 batch 1x
- Category: Sauces
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 1/4 up water
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons rice wine (or rice vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, rice wine, honey, ginger, sesame oil, and garlic.
- Whisk the mixture well and microwave for 1 minute. Stir, then microwave for an additional 1 minute.
- Dissolve cornstarch in water and add to the bowl. Whisk until well combined. Microwave for 3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Use the sauce immediately or let it cool before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Ready to elevate your meals with this homemade Teriyaki Sauce? Give it a try and let us know your favorite way to use it!