Ingredients
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup mirin
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon finely sliced green onions (optional)
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl
- Airtight glass jar
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, mirin, rice vinegar, brown sugar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, ketchup, and Dijon mustard. Whisk until the sugar begins to dissolve.
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and cook for 5–6 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.
Step 3: Prepare the Thickener
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until completely smooth.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce while whisking constantly. Continue cooking for 1–2 minutes, or until the sauce lightly coats the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Add Final Ingredients
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the sesame seeds and green onions, if using. For a hint of heat, mix in the chili flakes.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Allow the sauce to cool for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a clean, airtight glass jar. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.