Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
The Ultimate Homemade Teriyaki Sauce: A Versatile Staple to Elevate Your Cooking!
Living in Canada, a true melting pot of cultures, I’m always inspired by the incredible variety of international ingredients available. This recipe for homemade teriyaki sauce is born from that inspiration. While readily available in stores, making your own unlocks a depth of flavor that’s truly remarkable. It’s a ‘game-changer’ for your kitchen, offering that satisfying feeling of culinary accomplishment. Keep this versatile sauce in your fridge, and you’ll find yourself reaching for it time and time again!
Main Ingredients- 3 Tbsp Soy Sauce (use a milder, less salty variety for a balanced flavor)
- 4 Tbsp Sake (or Mirin, for depth and to remove any gamey odors)
- 2 Tbsp Sugar (adds sweetness and a beautiful glaze)
- 2 slices Ginger (thinly sliced, to infuse aromatic notes)
- 1 slice Lemon (added at the end for a touch of brightness)
Bonito Flake Dashi Broth- 1/4 cup Bonito Flakes (katsuobushi, for rich umami)
- 280ml Water
- 1/4 cup Bonito Flakes (katsuobushi, for rich umami)
- 280ml Water
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Let’s start by making the base for our delicious teriyaki sauce: the bonito flake dashi broth. Combine 1/4 cup of bonito flakes with 280ml of cold water in a bowl. Let it steep for about 30 minutes to allow the deep umami flavor of the bonito flakes to infuse into the water.
Step 2
After steeping, strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding the bonito flakes. Gently press down on the flakes with the back of a spoon to extract as much flavorful broth as possible. Be careful not to press too hard, as this can release a bitter taste.
Step 3
Now, it’s time to combine the main ingredients for the teriyaki sauce. In a saucepan, add 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 4 tablespoons of sake, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Pour in the prepared bonito flake broth. Add the 2 slices of thinly sliced ginger to infuse their fragrant aroma.
Step 4
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer and reduce slightly for about 3-5 minutes, until it thickens just a bit. Just before turning off the heat, add the slice of lemon. Stir briefly, then remove from heat. The lemon adds a subtle, refreshing brightness that balances the rich flavors, completing your homemade teriyaki sauce.
