The Best Easy Teriyaki Marinade for Chicken and Salmon

Oh, teriyaki. It’s like a sweet, sticky hug that just won’t let go. This foolproof marinade, my go-to for chicken and salmon, transforms ordinary weekdays into something special. I swear, the glaze alone makes me think of those warm summer evenings when everything just tastes better.

Steps

  1. Combine the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, sesame seeds, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a bowl. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are evenly mixed together.
  2. Transfer the marinade mixture to a small saucepan and place it over medium-high heat. Mix cold water and cornstarch in a separate bowl, then add this slurry to the saucepan.
  3. Bring the sauce to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer. Stir frequently until the sauce thickens, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
  4. For marinating, immerse chicken or meat in the marinade, ensuring it is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 8 hours.
  5. Remove the meat from the marinade and allow any excess to drip off. Discard the used marinade and cook or grill the meat to your preferred level of doneness.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/4 cup cold water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Nutritional Values

Calories: 688 | Total Fat: 40g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Sodium: 7232mg | Total Carbohydrate: 88g | Dietary Fiber: 0g | Total Sugars: 64g | Protein: 16g | Vitamin C: 0mg | Calcium: 240mg | Iron: 8mg | Potassium: 472mg

FAQ

  • Can I use this Teriyaki marinade on vegetables?
  • Yes, this marinade can be used on vegetables. Simply toss your choice of vegetables in the marinade, let them sit for a while to absorb the flavors, and then cook or grill them as desired.
  • How long can I store the Teriyaki sauce in the refrigerator?
  • You can store the Teriyaki sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure it is cooled before sealing to maintain its freshness.
  • Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
  • To make a gluten-free version of this Teriyaki marinade, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative instead of regular soy sauce.
  • Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
  • Yes, you can substitute honey with other sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar, though it may slightly alter the flavor profile of the marinade.
  • What type of meat works best with this marinade?
  • This Teriyaki marinade pairs well with a variety of meats, including chicken, beef, pork, and even fish. Marinate the meat for 1 to 8 hours for optimal flavor before cooking.

Tips

  • For a more intense flavor, consider marinating your protein for the full 8 hours, allowing the ingredients to penetrate deeper into the meat.
  • When thickening the sauce with cornstarch, ensure the water is cold to prevent clumping and achieve a smooth consistency.
  • If you prefer a less sweet sauce, you can adjust the amount of honey and brown sugar to taste without significantly altering the overall balance of flavors.
  • Toasting the sesame seeds before adding them to the marinade can enhance their nutty flavor, adding an extra layer of taste to the dish.

Equipment

  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk

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