This gluten-free teriyaki sauce recipe uses only four ingredients and takes just minutes to make. It’s a quick, easy, and delicious homemade sauce.
I assumed teriyaki sauce was off-limits when I became gluten-free. Most bottled sauces contain wheat, often hidden in the soy sauce. I missed that sweet and savory flavor, especially for stir-fries and marinades.
Then I learned how simple it is to make a homemade version. This 4-ingredient teriyaki sauce has become a regular in my kitchen. In fact, we often make triple batches and keep it in the fridge.
I control what goes into it, and it takes less than 10 minutes from start to finish. Once I nailed this gluten-free teriyaki sauce recipe, I can enjoy it again.
What you need to make our 4-ingredient teriyaki sauce
- Brown sugar: I use light brown sugar for the right balance of sweetness.
- Mirin is a sweet rice wine commonly found in most Asian markets.
- Cooking sake – While this sake professes to only be made with rice, it doesn’t say gluten-free. Alternatively, we use a rice-based cooking wine.
- Gluten-free soy sauce, or Tamari
Tips and serving suggestions for our gluten-free teriyaki sauce

- As the sauce cooks, you will first smell the alcohol as it burns off. Next, it will develop a sweet aroma when it is done.
- While some recipes call for an added starch, we found this reduces its longevity. Without starch, the sauce can last for up to a month in the refrigerator.
- We love this gluten-free teriyaki sauce and use it in many dishes. Our favourite is teriyaki chicken. It’s also great brushed on salmon or tofu before broiling, poured over stir-fried vegetables, or just drizzled over rice bowls.
Some readers have asked . . .
Can I make this without mirin or sake?
If you don’t have it, there are a few mirin substitute options, including making your own with rice vinegar and a small amount of sugar. For the sake, look for a non-alcoholic cooking wine or leave it out. The flavor won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be good.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles or even triples well. Maintain the same ratios and simmer for a little longer if you’re making a larger batch.
How should I store the leftover sauce?
We often make a big batch in advance. Once it cools, it should keep in the fridge for about a month in a sealed container.
Our teriyaki sauce recipe

Teriyaki sauce recipe
An easy-to-make gluten-free teriyaki sauce for recipes.
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons light brown sugar
- 3 Tablespoons mirin (GF)
- 3 Tablespoons cooking sake (GF)
- 3 Tablespoons soy sauce (Use GF soy sauce or tamari)
Instructions
- Stir all ingredients together in a small saucepan and bring to boil over high heat.
- Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 2 minutes, stirring often.
- Remove from heat and either use or let cool and then store in the refrigerator for up to one month.
Notes
As the sauce cooks you will smell the alcohol first as it burns off, then it will have a sweet aroma when it is done.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 2 Serving Size: ½ of recipeAmount Per Serving: Calories: 138Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 1318mgCarbohydrates: 23gFiber: 0gSugar: 21gProtein: 2g
Nutritional information isn't always accurate and it will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
If you enjoyed our 4-Ingredient Teriyaki Sauce recipe, please share it on social media and save it for later on Pinterest.







Leave a Reply