The best homemade teriyaki marinade recipes include Classic Teriyaki, Honey-Ginger, Spicy Sriracha, Pineapple and Vegan Coconut Aminos [1].
Classic Teriyaki Marinade
Classic Teriyaki Marinade infuses savory-sweet richness into chicken, beef, tofu and vegetables.
Key Ingredients
These pantry staples form the foundation of a traditional teriyaki seasoning mix.
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup mirin (rice wine)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Preparation Tip
Combine all ingredients in a sealed jar and shake until sugar dissolves. Marinate protein for 30 minutes to 2 hours before grilling or broiling.
Grill chicken perfectly with teriyaki marinade for best results.
Honey-Ginger Teriyaki Marinade
Honey-Ginger Teriyaki Marinade adds floral sweetness and warm spice to any protein.
Key Ingredients
Ginger’s zest and honey’s golden hue balance the savory soy base.
- ½ cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
Usage Note
Reserve a small portion of the mixture before marinating and brush on during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a glossy glaze.
Master grilling with honey-ginger glazes for detailed techniques.
Spicy Sriracha Teriyaki Marinade
Spicy Sriracha Teriyaki Marinade brings a chili kick to the classic sweet-salty balance [2].
Key Ingredients
A swirl of sriracha turns this blend into a fiery, flavor-packed brine.
- ½ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Heat Control
Adjust the sriracha amount to taste. Marinate for 30–60 minutes to infuse heat without overpowering.
Add spice to your BBQ with sriracha blends for recipe ideas.
Pineapple Teriyaki Marinade
Pineapple Teriyaki Marinade uses fresh juice to tenderize meat while adding tropical brightness [3].
Key Ingredients
Bromelain enzyme in pineapple juice gently breaks down proteins.
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Serving Suggestion
Marinate pork chops or salmon for 1–2 hours, then grill and top with diced pineapple for a contrast of textures.
Grilled pineapple and protein pairing for complementary flavor ideas.
Vegan Coconut Aminos Teriyaki Marinade
Vegan Coconut Aminos Teriyaki Marinade swaps soy for coconut aminos to suit plant-based and gluten-free diets.
Key Ingredients
Coconut aminos offer a milder, naturally sweet alternative to soy sauce.
- ½ cup coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Best Uses
Ideal for marinating tofu, vegetable skewers or adding to rice bowls for an umami-rich sauce.
Vegan marinades for every protein for more plant-friendly recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common queries on crafting teriyaki seasoning blends.
How long should I marinate protein?
Most proteins gain full flavor in 30 minutes to 2 hours. Thicker cuts may benefit from up to 4 hours.
Can I use leftover marinade as a glaze?
Bring any leftover marinade to a rolling boil for at least five minutes, then brush on during the final cooking stage.
What’s a good mirin substitute?
Mix 1 tablespoon sugar with 3 tablespoons rice vinegar for a quick mirin stand-in.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos and verify that all other seasonings are free from wheat.
Why did my glaze burn?
Apply thicker glazes like honey or sugar-based mixes in the last 5–10 minutes of high-heat cooking to avoid charring.
