Homemade Low-Calorie Teriyaki Sauce
Craving the sweet and savory punch of teriyaki but counting
calories? Fear not, flavor-forward friends! This recipe unlocks the secrets of
a homemade teriyaki sauce that's light on sugar and heavy on taste, making it a
guilt-free addition to your culinary arsenal.
Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
(reduced sodium is key!)
- 1/3 cup unsweetened pineapple
juice (brings the tang)
- 2 tablespoons brown rice
vinegar (acidic balance)
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
(aromatic zing)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (savory
depth)
- 1 teaspoon honey (natural
sweetness, use sparingly)
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
(thickening agent)
- 1 tablespoon water (to dissolve
cornstarch)
Instructions:
- Stir it Up: In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce,
pineapple juice, vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Whisk well to blend.
- Sweeten the Deal: Add honey to taste, starting with 1/2 teaspoon
and adjusting to your preference. Remember, less is more when it comes to
keeping it low-cal!
- Thicken Up: In a separate small bowl, mix cornstarch with
water to form a slurry. Slowly add the slurry to the simmering sauce while
whisking continuously. Cook for two to three minutes, or until slightly
thickened.
- Taste and Adjust: Let the sauce cool slightly, then taste and
adjust seasonings as needed. You can add a touch more ginger, vinegar, or
honey for a personalized touch.
Nutritional Information:
- Per tablespoon:
- Calories: 15 (significantly
lower than traditional teriyaki!)
- Sugar: 2 grams (a fraction of
the usual)
- Sodium: 350mg (watch your
intake)
Tips for Terrific Teriyaki:
- Get Creative: Swap the pineapple juice for unsweetened apple
juice or even pear juice for a twist on the classic flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sriracha for
a kick.
- Marinade Magic: Use this sauce as a marinade for chicken, tofu,
or fish before grilling, baking, or pan-frying.
- Veggie Love: Drizzle over roasted vegetables for a delicious
and nutritious side dish.
Conclusion:
Ditch the store-bought, sugar-laden teriyaki and embrace the taste and health benefits of homemade. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy the sweet and savory goodness of teriyaki without sacrificing your calorie goals. So go ahead, fire up the grill, whip up a batch, and savor the flavor of guilt-free teriyaki bliss!
