Teriyaki (/ˌtɛr.iˈjɑː.ki/) is a Japanese cooking technique in which meat, fish, or vegetables are marinated in a sweet and savory sauce made with soy sauce, sugar, and mirin. The spelling of teriyaki reflects the pronunciation of the word, with stress on the second syllable. The IPA phonetic transcription shows the four syllables of the word and the long "a" sound in the second syllable. Teriyaki is a popular flavor in Japanese cuisine, often used in dishes like teriyaki chicken, beef, or salmon.
Teriyaki is a Japanese culinary term that refers to a cooking technique and a popular sauce used in Japanese cuisine. As a cooking technique, it involves grilling or broiling meat or fish after marinating it in a sweet and savory glaze or sauce. The term "teri" means "to shine" in Japanese, while "yaki" refers to grilling or broiling. This method results in a glossy and caramelized appearance on the surface of the dish.
Teriyaki sauce is made by combining soy sauce, mirin (a sweet rice wine), sake (a Japanese rice wine), and sugar. The ingredients are typically simmered or reduced to create a thick and flavorful sauce. It is known for its sweet and savory taste profile, with a blend of umami from soy sauce and sweetness from the sugars.
Teriyaki is commonly used to flavor various protein options, including chicken, beef, pork, and seafood. It is also frequently used to glaze grilled or broiled vegetables. The sauce is versatile and can be used during cooking or as a dipping sauce or marinade. Teriyaki is a staple component of many Japanese dishes, such as teriyaki chicken, teriyaki salmon, and teriyaki beef. Its popularity has spread internationally, with many variations and adaptations found in different cuisines around the world.
The word "teriyaki" is derived from two Japanese words: "teri" (照り), which means "luster" or "shine", and "yaki" (焼き), which means "grilled" or "broiled". Together, "teriyaki" refers to a cooking technique where food is grilled or broiled with a glaze or sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and other ingredients. The term "teriyaki" originated in Japan and has been used since at least the 17th century.