When I think about the best flavors to accompany Zaxby’s Teriyaki Sauce, my mind races through a vibrant array of options. From grilled chicken to crispy tofu, this sauce elevates any dish to a whole new level of tasty goodness.
If you’re hosting a barbecue, it pairs wonderfully with vegetables on skewers, dripping with this sticky-sweet sauce. Or, consider tossing it over a bowl of steamed rice topped with grilled or fried shrimp.
You can also drizzle it over a fresh salad or as a dipping sauce for egg rolls or spring rolls. The possibilities are endless, limited only by your imagination and appetite.
Imagine standing in line at Zaxby’s, the smell of fried chicken wafting through the air. You know you’re in for a treat, but what truly brings those flavors to life? The answer lies in a small bottle: Zaxby’s Teriyaki Sauce.
It’s sweet, savory, and has a distinct flair that transforms simple dishes into culinary masterpieces. Over the years, I’ve learned to recreate this beloved sauce at home.
I’ll walk you through why it’s a must-try, how to make it, and everything you need to enjoy this delightful condiment.
You will also like the following Sauce recipes!
- Best Zaxby Asian Zing Sauce Recipe
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What is Zaxby’s Teriyaki Sauce?
Let’s break it down. Zaxby’s Teriyaki Sauce is not just an ordinary condiment; it’s a blend of flavors that make every bite special. With its rich, deep hue and glossy finish, it’s visually appealing.
It combines the sweetness of brown sugar, the umami from soy sauce, and a hint of ginger and garlic. This unique mix captures the essence of Asian cuisine, allowing it to shine in various dishes.
Each drizzle offers a gentle balance of sweet and salty that can make a simple chicken breast feel gourmet.
Why You’ll Love Zaxby’s Teriyaki Sauce
Now, let’s delve into what makes this sauce truly worthy of your kitchen shelf.
Versatility: This teriyaki sauce is like a chameleon in the kitchen. You can use it as a marinade, stir-fry or drizzle it over grilled meats and veggies. It effortlessly complements a diverse range of ingredients. Not a fan of chicken? No problem! It goes great with beef, pork, tofu, or even vegetables.
Flavor Profile: The flavor experience is exciting! It’s not just sweet; it has depth. The combination of ginger, garlic, and soy sauce adds layers and richness. You’ll find your taste buds dancing with each bite.
Homemade Goodness: Making it from scratch gives you control over the ingredients, so you can adjust sweetness or saltiness to your liking. It’s also a fantastic way to avoid preservatives found in store-bought versions.
Quick and Easy: The process is simple. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in about 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthier Option: By making your own sauce, you’ve already skipped out on the additives and excess sodium often present in commercial brands. You get to enjoy the delectable taste without the guilt.
The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Zaxby’s Teriyaki Sauce
Here’s a straightforward lineup of ingredients you’ll need:
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup filtered water
- 1/2 cup tamari or soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons golden syrup or honey
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon mirin
- 1 tablespoon arrowroot powder mixed with 2 tablespoons cool water (for thickening)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
Directions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create your own dream-worthy Zaxby’s Teriyaki Sauce.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Make sure you have all your ingredients ready. This will save time and help you work effectively. Lay them out on your counter for easy access.
Step 2: Combine Sugar and Water
In a small saucepan, combine the dark brown sugar and filtered water. Place it over medium heat and stir until the sugar completely dissolves. This step creates a sweet base for your sauce.
Step 3: Mix in Soy Sauce and Vinegar
Once the sugar has dissolved, add in the tamari or soy sauce and rice wine vinegar. Stir well to combine. The mixture should start to darken and take on that teriyaki color that we love.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
It’s time to amp up the flavor. Add the freshly grated ginger, chopped garlic, and mirin. Stir the mixture continuously while it warms up. You’ll smell those delightful aromas wafting off the heat.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the arrowroot powder with cool water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk this into the sauce mixture as it simmers. The sauce will begin to thicken, achieving that perfect, velvety texture.
Step 6: Spice It Up
If you like a hint of spice, add the chili flakes now. Stir and let everything simmer for a few more minutes. Taste it to see if you need to adjust with more sugar or soy sauce.
Step 7: Cool and Store
Once thickened to your liking, remove the sauce from heat. Let it cool completely before transferring to a clean, airtight container. This ensures it stays fresh for future use.
Notes
Here are some tips I’ve learned through trial and error that will help make your sauce even better:
- Balance is Key: Taste the sauce before it cools down. Adjust sweetness by adding a bit more sugar or brightness with additional vinegar.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Try to use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor. Dried versions won’t give you the punch you want.
- Chili Flakes: If you’re unsure about the heat level, start with a small pinch and add more to your liking.
- Storage: For best results, store your sauce in the fridge in a glass jar. It should last about 2 weeks.
- Use Immediately: Try to use the sauce within a week for peak flavor, as the freshness of the ingredients may fade over time.
Storage Tips
You can keep Zaxby’s Teriyaki sauce ready for when the inspiration strikes. After cooling, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. As mentioned, it’s best within two weeks. Don’t forget to label the container with the date!
Serving Suggestions
Getting the most out of Zaxby’s Teriyaki Sauce is simple. Here are five serving suggestions that will take your meals up a notch:
1. Grilled Chicken: Drizzle the sauce over grilled chicken breasts for a glazed finish. Let the chicken marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking for maximum flavor.
2. Stir-Fried Veggies: Toss the sauce with your favorite stir-fried vegetables. Think broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas for a colorful, flavorful dish alongside your protein.
3. Teriyaki Bowls: Create a teriyaki bowl by layering rice, protein, and your choice of vegetables. Drizzle the sauce generously and enjoy a wholesome meal.
4. Tofu Delight: If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, cube some firm tofu, pan-fry it until golden, and then toss with the teriyaki sauce. Serve it over quinoa for a filling dish.
5. Dipping Sauce: Use it as a dipping sauce for samosas or spring rolls. It’s a perfect complement that will entertain your guests.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Zaxby’s Teriyaki Sauce?
If you’re missing an ingredient or two, here’s a list of substitutes that can work well in this recipe:
1. Soy Sauce: If tamari isn’t available, regular soy sauce is a great alternative. However, if you need a gluten-free option, tamari is your friend!
2. Maple Syrup: Instead of golden syrup or honey, maple syrup can provide a deliciously unique sweetness, although it will alter the flavor slightly.
3. Coconut Aminos: This is a friendly option for those avoiding soy. Coconut aminos maintain a similar sweet-savory quality found in traditional teriyaki.
4. Brown Rice Vinegar: If you can’t find rice wine vinegar, brown rice vinegar can offer a similar tang. It may be slightly less acidic, so adjust to taste.
5. Grated Garlic or Powdered Garlic: If fresh garlic is not available, you can use garlic powder. One clove of fresh garlic equals roughly 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Zaxby’s Teriyaki Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Small saucepan
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup filtered water
- 1/2 cup tamari or soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons golden syrup or honey
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon mirin
- 1 tablespoon arrowroot powder mixed with 2 tablespoons cool water for thickening
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
Instructions
- Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create your own dream-worthy Zaxby’s Teriyaki Sauce.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Make sure you have all your ingredients ready. This will save time and help you work effectively. Lay them out on your counter for easy access.
Step 2: Combine Sugar and Water
- In a small saucepan, combine the dark brown sugar and filtered water. Place it over medium heat and stir until the sugar completely dissolves. This step creates a sweet base for your sauce.
Step 3: Mix in Soy Sauce and Vinegar
- Once the sugar has dissolved, add in the tamari or soy sauce and rice wine vinegar. Stir well to combine. The mixture should start to darken and take on that teriyaki color that we love.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
- It’s time to amp up the flavor. Add the freshly grated ginger, chopped garlic, and mirin. Stir the mixture continuously while it warms up. You’ll smell those delightful aromas wafting off the heat.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix the arrowroot powder with cool water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk this into the sauce mixture as it simmers. The sauce will begin to thicken, achieving that perfect, velvety texture.
Step 6: Spice It Up
- If you like a hint of spice, add the chili flakes now. Stir and let everything simmer for a few more minutes. Taste it to see if you need to adjust with more sugar or soy sauce.
Step 7: Cool and Store
- Once thickened to your liking, remove the sauce from heat. Let it cool completely before transferring to a clean, airtight container. This ensures it stays fresh for future use.
Notes
- Balance is Key: Taste the sauce before it cools down. Adjust sweetness by adding a bit more sugar or brightness with additional vinegar.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Try to use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor. Dried versions won’t give you the punch you want.
- Chili Flakes: If you’re unsure about the heat level, start with a small pinch and add more to your liking.
- Storage: For best results, store your sauce in the fridge in a glass jar. It should last about 2 weeks.
- Use Immediately: Try to use the sauce within a week for peak flavor, as the freshness of the ingredients may fade over time.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make teriyaki sauce without sugar?
While sugar is a key component, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use sugar substitutes like stevia or erythritol. However, taste and texture may vary slightly as a result.
2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
To crank up the heat, add sriracha sauce or cayenne pepper in place of or in addition to chili flakes.
3. Does teriyaki sauce work well as a marinade?
Absolutely! It’s fantastic as a marinade. Just remember to marinate for at least 30 minutes—or longer for a more intense flavor.
4. Can I freeze teriyaki sauce?
Yes, you can freeze it. Use ice cube trays to freeze portions, and then transfer them to a suitable container. This way, you can thaw only what you need later.
5. Does homemade teriyaki sauce taste the same as Zaxby’s?
While it may not taste exactly the same, many find homemade versions to be even more flavorful and fresh. It’s definitely worth a try!
6. Can I adjust the thickness of the sauce?
Yes, you can make it thicker by adding more arrowroot slurry. If it gets too thick, thin it out with a bit of water or more soy sauce.
Conclusion
Creating Zaxby’s Teriyaki Sauce at home opens up a world of flavors just waiting to be explored. It’s straightforward, delicious, and adaptable to your personal taste. Next time you’re planning a meal, think about how this sauce can elevate your dish.
Whether it’s for meal prep, a quick dinner, or impressing guests, you can’t go wrong with a great teriyaki sauce. So roll up your sleeves and let your culinary creativity shine! Happy cooking!
