Craving the rich, savory flavor of teriyaki sauce but watching your sodium intake? You're in luck! This homemade low-salt teriyaki sauce recipe delivers all the umami goodness without the excessive sodium found in store-bought versions. It's incredibly easy to make, perfect for quick weeknight dinners, and a fantastic addition to your healthy meal repertoire. Whether you're looking for easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, or delicious dishes for homemade cooking, this recipe is a winner. Get ready to elevate your culinary game with this best recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- ½ cup mirin (sweet rice wine) – you can find this in most Asian grocery stores or larger supermarkets.
- ¼ cup sake (optional, adds depth of flavor; can substitute with extra mirin or water)
- ¼ cup brown sugar (or honey for a slightly different flavor profile)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon water (if using cornstarch)
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, mirin, sake (if using), brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
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Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Let it simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Thicken (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl until smooth. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce, stirring continuously until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. This usually takes just a minute or two.
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Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Tips for the Best Low-Salt Teriyaki Sauce:
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less brown sugar.
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh ginger and garlic will significantly enhance the flavor of the sauce.
- Don't Boil: Simmering the sauce gently is key to preventing it from becoming too thick or burning.
- Make it Ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to fully develop.
Variations:
- Spicy Teriyaki: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Citrus Teriyaki: Add the juice of ½ a lemon or lime for a bright, tangy twist.
- Honey Teriyaki: Substitute honey for the brown sugar for a sweeter, slightly less intense flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a total yield of approximately 1 ½ cups and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 60-70 calories per 2 tablespoons
- Sodium: Significantly reduced compared to store-bought versions (check your soy sauce label for precise sodium content)
This low-salt teriyaki sauce is a versatile addition to your culinary arsenal. Use it to marinade chicken, beef, tofu, or fish; as a glaze for vegetables; or as a dipping sauce for spring rolls or dumplings. Enjoy experimenting and creating your own delicious and healthy dishes!