Easy Homemade Teriyaki Sauce (Better Than Store-Bought!)
If you’ve ever found yourself wishing for a teriyaki sauce that’s not too salty, not too sweet, and free from preservatives—you’re in the right place. This easy homemade teriyaki sauce recipe comes together in minutes using simple, real-food ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Whether you’re marinating chicken, glazing salmon, or tossing it into a quick veggie stir-fry, this rich and flavorful sauce is about to become a staple in your kitchen.
Reader Summary
- A simple recipe for homemade teriyaki sauce, highlighting the key ingredients that bring a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami, along with easy substitutions.
- Ideas for using it—try it on stir-fried vegetables, noodles, chicken, salmon, or as a glaze for grilled meats.
- Practical tips on storing the sauce, with guidance on shelf life so you can keep it handy for quick meals.
- FAQs and troubleshooting, like why the sauce might not be thickening and how to make it without cornstarch if you prefer.
- Helpful tips for perfecting the sauce so you get that glossy, rich finish every time.
*This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase through one of these links. I only share products I personally use, love, or trust here at Our Manor On Main—thank you for supporting our homestead and the work that goes into sharing it.
If you are searching for dinner ideas for your family, you might like my recipe for Maple Dijon Pork Tenderloin, Snow Day Comfort Food Recipes, or also Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole.
Why You Will Love This Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
- Easy and quick to make (under 10 minutes!)
- Made with pantry staples
- Free from preservatives or mystery ingredients
- customizable saltiness or sweetness
- Perfect for meal prepping
Key Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
| Ingredient | Purpose in Sauce | Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Soy Sauce | Base umami flavor | Tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free |
| Brown Sugar | Sweetness & depth | Honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar |
| Garlic & Ginger | Bold, warm flavors | Use fresh or ground |
| Rice Vinegar | Balancing acidity | Apple cider vinegar works in a pinch |
| Cornstarch + Water | To thicken | Arrowroot powder or flour slurry |
How To Make Homemade Teriyaki Sauce (Step by Step)
Gather Your Ingredients
In this recipe, you will need the following:
- 1/2 Cup Water
- 1/3 Cup Soy Sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 garlic clove- Minced
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger– Grated
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Mix Together the Cornstarch and Water in a Small Bowl.
Combine Remaining Ingredients in a Sauce Pan. Add Corn Starch Slurry.
Bring Sauce To Simmer. Stir Frequently.
Cook until the sauce turns darker brown and thickens.
Serve
Once the sauce has thickened, remove from heat and serve.
Easy Homemade Teriyaki Sauce (Better Than Store-Bought!)
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/3 cup Soy Sauce
- 1 TBSP Corn Starch
- 1 Garlic Clove minced
- 1/2 TBSP Fresh Ginger grated
- 1/3 cup Brown Sugar
- 1 TBSP Honey
- 1/4 tsp Sesame oil
- 1 TBSP Rice Vinegar
Instructions
- Mix Together the Cornstarch and Water in a Small Bowl.
- Add remaining ingredients into a sauce pan. Add in the cornstarch and water mixture and stir.
- Bring to a gentle simmer on medium heat stirring frequently. Cook until the sauce thickens and is a darker brown.
- Once the sauce has thickened, remove from heat and serve. Sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
Notes
How To Use Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
Stir Fry Vegetables
Chicken and Salmon Marinade
Teriyaki Noodles
Dipping Sauce for Potstickers and Egg Rolls
Glaze for Grilled Meats
Storage and Shelf Life
This homemade teriyaki sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. I personally use these pint sized Mason Jars. I literally use them for EVERYTHING! Make sure to give the container a good shake if the sauce separates. You may also freeze for a longer period of time. One clever way I read to store this homemade sauce is by freezing it in ice cube trays for more individual portions. It will thaw more quickly and is perfect for when you just need a small amount!
Recipe FAQs
What is teriyaki sauce made of?
Traditional teriyaki sauce is made with soy sauce, sweetener, garlic, and ginger. Homemade teriyaki sauce often includes pantry staples like brown sugar, honey, cornstarch, and water to create a sweet and savory sauce that thickens beautifully.
How long does homemade teriyaki sauce last?
Store homemade teriyaki sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Be sure to let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to a jar or container.
Can I freeze homemade teriyaki sauce?
Yes! Homemade teriyaki sauce freezes well. Pour the cooled sauce into a freezer-safe container or ice cube tray and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
Why is my teriyaki sauce not thickening?
If your teriyaki sauce is too thin, it may need to simmer a little longer. Since we are using cornstarch in this recipe, make sure it is fully mixed and heated long enough to activate its thickening properties.
What can I use homemade teriyaki sauce on?
Teriyaki sauce is incredibly versatile. Use it as a marinade for chicken, pork, beef, or salmon, drizzle it over rice bowls, stir-fries, and vegetables, or use it as a glaze for grilled meats.
What is the difference between teriyaki sauce and soy sauce?
Soy sauce is one ingredient used to make teriyaki sauce. Teriyaki sauce has a sweeter flavor and thicker consistency because it typically includes sweeteners, aromatics, and a thickening agent in addition to soy sauce.
Can I make teriyaki sauce without cornstarch?
Yes. While cornstarch helps create a thick, glossy sauce, you can simmer the sauce longer to reduce it naturally or use an alternative thickener such as arrowroot powder.
Is homemade teriyaki sauce better than store-bought?
Many people prefer homemade teriyaki sauce because it contains simple ingredients and allows you to control the sweetness and sodium levels. It also avoids many of the preservatives and additives found in some bottled sauces.
Tips for the Best Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
- Simmer gently to avoid burning the sugars.
- Use fresh ginger for more depth.
- Taste and tweak—this is your signature sauce!
In Closing
Making your own teriyaki sauce at home is one of the easiest ways to add big flavor to everyday meals. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a rich, savory sauce that’s perfect for everything from stir-fries and noodles to grilled meats and vegetables. Once you see how simple it is to make from scratch, you may never reach for the store-bought version again! I know Jason has told me that this version is his favorite. I hope this recipe becomes a favorite in your kitchen too and that it helps make dinnertime a little easier and a lot more delicious.
Happy Cooking, friend.
XO, Bri
More Homemade Sauce Recipes to Try
If you like this sauce, you might also want to try these:
The Perfect Cilantro Lime Crema
Made From Scratch Sweet and Zesty BBQ Sauce
The Ultimate Blue Cheese Sauce
Let’s Stay Connected!
Follow along on social media for more from-scratch recipes, homesteading inspiration, seasonal living ideas, and behind-the-scenes moments from Our Manor on Main. I’d love to have you join our community and share in the journey!
