Description

This homemade soyaki sauce is a savory, slightly sweet, and umami-rich condiment that blends the deep, salty flavor of soy sauce with the garlicky, gingery essence of teriyaki sauce. Perfect as a marinade, glaze, stir-fry sauce, or dipping sauce, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavors using simple pantry ingredients. Plus, it’s customizable, allowing you to adjust the sweetness, spice, or thickness to your preference.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

½ cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
¼ cup honey or brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Optional Enhancements:

1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for added texture and nuttiness)
1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a mild spicy kick)
2 tablespoons pineapple juice (for a fruity depth)

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Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

Mince the garlic and grate the ginger for the freshest flavor.

Combine the Ingredients:

In a small saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
If using sesame seeds or red pepper flakes, add them now.

Simmer the Sauce:

Heat over medium-low until the mixture gently simmers. Stir occasionally to dissolve the sugar completely.
Let it cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Adjust Thickness (Optional):

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water to create a slurry.
Slowly stir the slurry into the sauce and continue to cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened.

Cool and Store:

Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Shake well before each use.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
For extra umami, add a splash of fish sauce or a teaspoon of miso paste.
For a deeper caramel-like sweetness, use dark brown sugar instead of honey.
Use this sauce as a marinade for chicken, beef, tofu, or seafood. It also works great as a dipping sauce for dumplings or sushi.
Make it ahead of time and store in small portions for easy use throughout the week.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Sauce, Condiment
Method: Simmered
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired