Low Sugar Classic Teriyaki Sauce

Total time15 min

Prep time5 min

Cook time10 min

This glossy, savory-sweet sauce comes together in one small saucepan with soy sauce, mirin, and sake simmered down until it clings to the back of a spoon. A gentle reduction over medium-low heat concentrates the flavor into something deeply umami, with just enough sheen to coat noodles, glaze grilled chicken, or finish a stir-fry. The finger-test trick in the instructions ensures you hit that perfect syrupy consistency every time, no candy thermometer required. Once it's cooled slightly, it thickens further into a pourable glaze that keeps in the fridge for up to two weeks, so it's easy to have on hand for quick weeknight dinners. This one is a solid pick for an added sugar free kitchen, letting the mirin and sake carry the depth and shine on their own.

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Ingredients

4 servings

¼ cup soy sauce
Kikkoman Soy Sauce All-Purpose Seasoning Bottle - 10 Fl. Oz.Kikkoman Traditionally Brewed Less Sodium Soy Sauce, 10 fl oz San-J Gluten Free Tamari Soy Sauce - 10 fl oz San-J Gluten Free 28% Less Sodium Tamari Brewed Soy Sauce - Low FODMAP Certified San-J Organic Tamari Brewed Soy Sauce - 10 fl oz
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¼ cup mirin
2 tbsp sake
1 tbsp granulated sugar
Chef's tip
Use the same volume. Baking behavior varies by blend: some brown faster or stay softer, while others brown less. Follow the package's baking guidance and start checking a few minutes early.

Instructions

1
Combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar in a small saucepan. Whisk until the sugar dissolves.
2
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 6–8 minutes, until the sauce has reduced by about one-third and coats the back of a spoon — a finger drawn through the coating should leave a clean line.

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