Gluten Free Teriyaki Sauce
There’s something utterly comforting about the rich, savory aroma of freshly made teriyaki sauce. Picture this: you walk into your kitchen, and the warm blend of toasted sesame oil, garlic, and ginger greets you like an inviting hug. Yes, we’re talking about the magic that happens when you create your own gluten free teriyaki sauce, a savory sauce that can elevate any dish—from stir-fries to grilled meats or veggies. Unlike store-bought options that often come with additives and preservatives, this homemade version is quick, simple, and rich in flavor.

Making your own gluten free teriyaki sauce not only offers up vibrant tastes but also allows you to customize the recipe to suit your palate. It’s made using pantry staples and can transform your weeknight dinners, meal prep sessions, or holiday gatherings into memorable feasts without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be used in various dishes. Why not treat yourself to this delightful homemade sauce?
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in just 20 minutes, from prep to table.
- Irresistible Flavor: Bursting with umami, thanks to the unique blend of sesame oil, tamari, and ginger.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: A glossy finish makes it a visually stunning addition to any dish.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for drizzling over grilled chicken, veggies, rice bowls, or even used as a dipping sauce!
- Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free and can easily be sugar-free; just swap the brown sugar for a suitable alternative.

Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil: This oil adds a nutty flavor and a silky texture. Make sure to choose toasted for the best taste experience.
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic: Freshly minced garlic contributes a pungent aroma and depth to the sauce. Garlic powder can be used, but fresh will give you the best flavor.
- 1 teaspoon fresh minced ginger: Ginger adds warmth and a bit of zest. If unavailable, ground ginger can substitute in a pinch but will alter the flavor slightly.
- ½ cup low sodium tamari: A gluten-free version of soy sauce that aids in that savory umami flavor. Feel free to use coconut aminos for a milder taste.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: This sweetens the sauce and gives it a lovely caramel color. Coconut sugar can be a healthier alternative if desired.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Adds natural sweetness and balances the tanginess; maple syrup can substitute for a vegan version.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: This adds acidity to enhance flavor. Apple cider vinegar can work well if you don’t have rice vinegar on hand.
- ½ cup water: Balances the sauce for the right consistency.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to a luscious texture. Arrowroot powder can be used as an alternative for a grain-free option.
How to Make Gluten Free Teriyaki Sauce
- Heat the Oil: In a small pot over medium heat, add the 2 teaspoons of toasted sesame oil. Once heated, add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing them for just 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine the Sauce Ingredients: Whisk in the ½ cup of low sodium tamari, ¼ cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, mixing well until the sugar has dissolved.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small dish, whisk together ½ cup water and 1 tablespoon cornstarch to create a smooth slurry. Pour this mixture into the pot and bring it to a low boil, allowing the sweetness to meld beautifully with the savory flavors.
- Simmer for Perfection: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. As it simmers, it will thicken up beautifully, becoming a perfect coating for all your favorite dishes. Don’t forget, it’ll continue to thicken as it cools!
Storing & Reheating
For best results, store your homemade sauce in an airtight container, ideally in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for about a week. You can also freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, pour it back into a small pot over low heat and stir gently until warmed through—this method keeps it smooth and delicious. Just keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon reheating, so adding a splash of water while warming can help regain its lovely consistency.

Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Don’t rush the sautéing process. Allowing the garlic and ginger to cook slowly releases their essential oils and heightens the flavors.
- If you want a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while it simmers.
- Always taste the sauce before serving; you can add more sweetness with a touch of honey or sugar if desired.
- If the sauce is too thick after cooling, add a bit of warm water to adjust the consistency to your liking.
- Freezing in ice cube trays is a great way to portion out the sauce for easy thawing later.
Creating your own gluten-free teriyaki sauce is not only a simple process but also provides the satisfaction of knowing exactly what you’re putting into your food. With a completely customizable flavor profile and a few easily accessible ingredients, you’ll have versatility within your culinary range!
Recipe FAQs
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Gluten Free Teriyaki Sauce
This gluten free teriyaki sauce brings robust flavor to your dishes with a simple blend of tamari, garlic, and ginger. Ideal for a quick dinner or as a healthy dipping sauce, it’s easy to prepare and a must-have for anyone craving homemade sauces.
- Prep Time 5 minutes
- Cook Time 15 minutes
- Yield 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon fresh minced ginger
- ½ cup low sodium tamari
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Heat the toasted sesame oil in a small pot over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for 1-2 minutes.
- Whisk in tamari, brown sugar, honey, and rice vinegar.
- In a small bowl, mix water and cornstarch until smooth, then add to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 5 minutes.
Notes
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
This sauce can be used for stir-fries, marinades, or a flavorful dip.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 30
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Nutritional information is an estimate. The nutritional values for your final dish may vary based on measuring differences and products used.




