Tag: Teriyaki recipe

Many store-bought teriyaki sauces contain surprising levels of sodium and high-fructose corn syrup. So, is homemade teriyaki healthier? The answer lies in the ingredients you choose, offering a superior nutritional profile and allowing you to avoid questionable additives.

Historically, authentic Japanese teriyaki sauce includes not just soy sauce and sugar, but also mirin (sweet rice wine) and sake (Japanese rice wine). This combination of ingredients and specific cooking techniques differentiates true teriyaki from a simple mixture of soy sauce and sugar.

The term 'teri' in teriyaki refers to the aesthetic shine on the food, a distinctive glaze created largely from its sugar content. So, does teriyaki chicken contain sugar? The answer is a resounding yes, and the amount can vary dramatically based on the recipe and preparation method.

The word "teriyaki" comes from the Japanese words "teri" (luster) and "yaki" (to grill or broil), referring to the glossy sheen from the sugar and soy sauce glaze. While many think of a single recipe, what is teriyaki sauce made of actually varies significantly between authentic Japanese traditions and popular Westernized adaptations. This versatile sauce is built on a foundation of savory and sweet flavors, and its specific ingredients define its unique character.