Teriyaki: A Sauce and Marinade with Rich History

Teriyaki, a Japanese cooking staple, has a long and storied history. Originating from the verb 'teri,' meaning 'to glaze,' and 'yaki,' meaning 'to grill,' teriyaki was traditionally used as a glaze for grilled fish. Over time, its versatility expanded, and today it is employed in a myriad of culinary applications.

Nutritional Value of Teriyaki

Teriyaki's nutritional profile makes it a relatively healthy addition to your meals. A single tablespoon contains:

  • Calories: 16
  • Protein: 1.1 grams
  • Fat: 0 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 2.8 grams
  • Fiber: 0 grams
  • Sugar: 2.5 grams

The Versatile Uses of Teriyaki

Teriyaki's flavor profile, with its harmonious blend of sweet and savory notes, makes it a versatile ingredient that can elevate various dishes. Here are some popular ways to use teriyaki:

  • Marinade: Teriyaki is an excellent marinade for meats, poultry, and fish. Its enzymatic action tenderizes the protein while infusing it with a rich, umami-packed flavor.
  • Sauce: Teriyaki's thick, flavorful consistency makes it a perfect dipping sauce for appetizers like edamame, tempura, and chicken skewers.
  • Glaze: Teriyaki's ability to caramelize and glaze makes it a popular choice for dishes like teriyaki chicken or salmon, where it creates a glossy, flavorful exterior.

DIY Teriyaki: A Simple Recipe

Creating your own teriyaki sauce is a simple and rewarding process. Here's a basic recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
  • 1/4 cup sake (Japanese rice wine)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened and reduced by about half, approximately 10-15 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using.

Conclusion

Teriyaki is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that adds a touch of Japanese culinary magic to your dishes. Whether you use it as a marinade, sauce, or glaze, teriyaki is sure to elevate your meals with its unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.

How many calories are in Teriyaki?

Each 1 tbsp of Teriyaki contains 16 calories.

Teriyaki Nutritional Information

Nutrient Amount per 1 tbsp (18g)
Calories 16 Calories
Protein 1.1g
Fat 0g
Saturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg
Carbohydrates 2.8g
Dietary Fiber 0g
Sugar 2.5g
Sodium 0.69mg
Potassium 0.0405mg
Calcium 0.0045mg
Iron 0.0003mg