Easy Vegan Teriyaki Sauce

Savory, sweet, and sticky, this vegan teriyaki sauce is healthier than store-bought and so simple to make. Perfect for stir-fries or use as a marinade. Oil-free with gluten-free and soy-free options.

You could just call this awesome sauce! Honestly, I can’t believe I’ve never posted a recipe for teriyaki sauce until now. I’ve been using the mixture for a while now and I thought it was about time I shared it with you. 

This sweet and savory sauce is so simple to make and tastes absolutely delicious. It’s perfect for rice dishes, tofu, noodles, and pretty much anything else you can imagine.

The beauty of this recipe, besides the taste, is its simplicity and the speed with which it comes together. 7 simple ingredients and 10 minutes are all you need to make the BEST vegan teriyaki sauce you ever tried. It’s also oil-free and easily made gluten-free.

Where Is Teriyaki Sauce From?

Contrary to popular belief, Teriyaki sauce is believed to have actually come from America. Studies show the first teriyaki sauce was actually made in Hawaii by Japanese immigrants. (source)

When Japanese immigrants settled in Hawaii back in the 1960s, they incorporated their cooking techniques and delicious flavors into their meals.

The original recipe for teriyaki sauce used pineapple juice because, for years, Hawaii was known for its fresh pineapples. So, pineapple juice was mixed with brown sugar and soy sauce to create one of the most delicious marinades and sauces that paired well with tons of dishes.

Is Teriyaki Sauce Vegan?

Yes, most teriyaki sauces are vegan, but some sauces do use animal products like honey for sweetness. While this is usually the exception and not the norm, it’s always a good idea to double-check the ingredients before consuming.

Ingredients For This Recipe

• Soy Sauce: soy sauce creates that “umami” or savoriness that is found in most Asian sauces. I prefer to use low-sodium soy sauce to keep the sodium down.
• Sweetener: pure maple syrup, agave, or honey are a few options that work well in this recipe. Honey is not vegan, but many on a plant-based diet use this as a sweetener. If you are vegan simply use one of the other options.
• Sugar: coconut sugar, date sugar, maple sugar, or even light brown sugar add just a little depth of flavor but are totally optional. 
• Rice Vinegar: I prefer rice vinegar because it tends to be a little sweeter and less potent and sour than apple cider vinegar.
• Ginger: dried ginger adds a robust signature flavor but freshly grated ginger may also be used.
• Garlic Powder: for adding depth of flavor and much easier than chopping garlic. 
• Thickener: cornstarch, arrowroot powder, or tapioca flour mixed with water and whisked into the teriyaki sauce create that signature thickness and stickiness.
• Sesame Seeds: I like to add toasted sesame seeds, but it’s totally optional.

How To Make Homemade Vegan Teriyaki Sauce

First, you will want to make the cornstarch slurry and set it aside. Simply add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water to a small bowl and whisk the ingredients together.

Add all of the remaining ingredients to a small pot or saucepan, stir everything together, and bring to a low boil over medium heat. 

Reduce the heat to low, whisk in the cornstarch slurry, and let the sauce simmer while continuing to stir until it reaches your desired consistency or thickness.

Remove from heat and serve over steamed broccoli, baked tofu, or nice vegetable stir fry. Garnish with raw sesame seeds for a nice texture and presentation.

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

There’s so much you can do with this delicious sauce and it’s so versatile. Check out these easy additions and variations.

• Use tamari, coconut aminos, or Bragg’s Liquid aminos to replace the soy sauce
• Apple cider vinegar is a good alternative if you don’t have rice vinegar.
• Add some crushed red pepper, sriracha, or chili garlic sauce if you like a little heat.
• If you want to cut back on the maple syrup or other sweeteners, try adding some pineapple juice to this recipe. It adds a very nice essence without overpowering the flavor.
• Bits of chopped fresh garlic add a depth and essence to this teriyaki sauce.

Can I Make Gluten-Free Teriyaki Sauce?

Yes, absolutely! Use low-sodium tamari or find gluten-free soy sauce brands. Here is an excellent resource.

Can I Make Teriyaki Sauce Soy Free?

Yes, you can. Coconut aminos are a great option if you are not able to have soy in your diet.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Teriyaki Sauce

Let the vegan teriyaki sauce completely cool then transfer it to a glass jar or container and store it in the refrigerator. You can keep your sauce in the fridge for 7-10 days.

This sauce is also great for making ahead because it freezes beautifully. Place the sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use simply let it thaw in the fridge or heat in a small pot over low-medium heat, give it a good stir and enjoy.

More Delicious Oil-Free Vegan Sauces and Dressings

Be sure and check out all of my oil-free salad dressings and sauces. Here are a few of my favorites that add BIG flavor to any sandwich or meal.

• The Easiest & Most Delicious Vegan Pesto
• Easy Vegan Tartar Sauce
• Vegan Thousand Island Salad Dressing
• Vegan Honey Mustard
• Oil-Free Salad Dressing

I hope you enjoy this easy Homemade Vegan Teriyaki Sauce. Please leave a comment below with a star rating. And, be sure and share a picture on Instagram with the hashtag #shaneandsimple. I want to see your work. Enjoy!