This sugar free keto teriyaki sauce is super versatile and you can whip it up in minutes. This sauce brings that perfect balance of salty, sticky, and slightly sweet tastes that’s downright addictive. With only 2 net carbs and ready in 5 minutes, it’s so simple you’ll want to have this versatile sauce on standby for everything.

Whether you’re glazing air fryer teriyaki salmon or marinating air fryer teriyaki chicken, this sauce is your go-to for endless delicious possibilities. And for those on a Whole30 diet, don’t miss out on my equally tasty paleo teriyaki sauce!

Keto Teriyaki Sauce in a glass measuring cup
Sugar free teriyaki sauce with simple ingredients and ready in 5 minutes!

What is teriyaki

“Teriyaki” (照り焼き) is a Japanese term that describes a cooking technique rather than just a sauce. The word “Teri” (照り) highlights the shine and luster food gets when it’s cooked, and “Yaki” (焼き) refers to the method of cooking by grilling or broiling. So, when we talk about teriyaki, we’re talking about a way of preparing food so it ends up with a beautiful, glossy finish.

However, most of us think of teriyaki as that deliciously sweet and savory sauce that’s perfect for dressing up meat and seafood dishes.

Traditionally, Japanese teriyaki sauce is a mix of soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar. But the recipe we’re discussing today tweaks the classic to suit those on a low-carb diet. While it strays from the original, this version offers a fantastic solution for anyone seeking a sugar-free or low-sugar teriyaki sauce option.

Sugar Free Teriyaki Sauce Ingredients

Dive into making your own sugar free teriyaki marinade with just 2 grams of net carbs per serving! This super easy and versatile sauce can drop to 1 net carb if you opt for low-sodium soy sauce instead. It’s the perfect addition to jazz up your meals, ensuring a delightful blend of flavors without the guilt.

The ingredients to make low carb teriyaki sauce
  • Coconut Aminos: A healthier, sweeter alternative to soy sauce, adding a rich, umami flavor without the gluten or soy.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy kick to the sauce, balancing the sweetness and umami flavors.
  • Grated Ginger: Fresh ginger brings a warm, spicy note that adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
  • Grated Garlic: Provides a pungent, earthy flavor that is foundational to many savory dishes.
  • Lakanto Brown Monk Fruit Sweetener: A natural, sugar-free brown sugar substitute sweetener that mimics the taste of brown sugar without the carbs, adding sweetness to the sauce.
  • Xanthan Gum: A thickening agent that helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency without adding carbs or altering the flavor.

Tip: 1:1 conversion of Brown sugar to Lakanto brown sugar

Substitutions and variations

  • Tapioca or Arrowroot Starch: Using these will slightly increase the carb count, but it’s minimal. These starches are great for those following Whole30 and Paleo diets.
  • Sweetener: Feel free to swap in any keto-friendly sweetener such as Lakanto golden. Brown sugar is a top pick for its rich, caramel-like sweetness.
  • Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari if you’re avoiding gluten. Just like traditional soy sauce, these varieties are saltier and less sweet compared to coconut aminos.
  • Soy Sauce: Whether it’s low sodium or regular, soy sauce is a viable option. Remember, it’s saltier and less sweet, so use a reduced amount mixed with water to lessen the salty flavor. See my Chinese pantry staples for more gluten-free Asian seasonings.

Remember, the magic ratio when swapping coconut aminos for soy sauce is 1 cup of coconut aminos to ⅔ cup of soy sauce + ⅓ cup of water. This simple guide ensures your sauce maintains its delicious balance, no matter the substitution!

How to make sugar free teriyaki sauce

Making low carb teriyaki sauce is a breeze, and the best part? It’s a super versatile, all-purpose sauce that can jazz up any dish. Let’s dive in and mix up some magic in the kitchen!

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, mix the coconut aminos (or soy sauce and water mix), apple cider vinegar, ginger, garlic, and Lakanto Brown Monk Fruit Sweetener.
  2. Heat: Stir the mixture, cover the pot, and let it simmer on medium heat to medium-low heat for about 3 minutes. Avoid boiling to maintain the perfect flavor balance.
  3. Thicken: Gradually whisk in xanthan gum into the simmering sauce until it thickens to your liking.
  4. Cool and Store: Turn off the heat, let the sauce cool, then adjust the sweetness if needed. Store in a mason jar in the fridge for up to 2-3 weeks.

How to use Keto teriyaki sauce

This no sugar teriyaki sauce is a kitchen superstar, thanks to its versatility. Whether you’re marinating, glazing, or stir-frying, this sauce has got you covered. Let’s explore the different ways you can use it to elevate your dishes:

I. As a marinade:

For Seafood and Meat: Enhance chicken, beef, steak, salmon, or shrimp with this sugar free teriyaki marinade. Skip the xanthan gum to keep the sauce thinner, simmer for about 3 minutes, let it cool, and it’s ready to marinate your favorites.

II. As a glaze:

For Grilled and Pan-Fried Dishes: Turn your sauce into a perfect glaze for air fryer teriyaki salmon, air fryer teriyaki chicken, Tsukune (Japanese grilled meatballs), and Yakitori (Japanese grilled chicken skewers). Just add a tiny bit of xanthan gum while simmering and whisking for about 3 minutes until it thickens.

III. In stir-fries:

Use as a Sauce: Give a flavor boost to Hibachi vegetables and Hibachi noodles by incorporating this sauce into your stir-fries. It brings a rich, savory depth that complements the ingredients beautifully.

How to make ahead and store

Planning ahead or have leftovers? No problem! This zero sugar teriyaki sauce can be made in advance and keeps beautifully in the refrigerator.

Just let it cool and pour it into a mason jar or an airtight container, and it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 2-3 weeks. This make-ahead trick ensures you always have this delicious, versatile sauce on hand for quick meals and flavor boosts!

Expert tips

  • Taste as You Go: Since everyone’s palate is different, adjust the sweetness and saltiness to your liking. Start with the recommended amounts and tweak from there.
  • Simmer, Don’t Boil: Gently simmer the sauce to meld the flavors without reducing it too much, which could concentrate the saltiness.
  • Whisk Well When Adding Xanthan Gum: To avoid clumps and ensure a smooth sauce, sprinkle the xanthan gum in small teaspoon slowly while continuously whisking.
  • Cool Before Storing: Let the sauce cool to room temperature before transferring it to a jar or container. This helps maintain its texture and flavor.
  • Adjust for Dietary Needs: Use coconut aminos for a soy-free option or low sodium gluten-free soy sauce for a lower carb count. Remember, the ratio is key when substituting.
  • Marinade Without Thickening: If using the sauce as a marinade, skip the xanthan gum. It’s easier to coat the meat and seafood, and it penetrates better for more flavor.
  • Coconut Aminos to Soy Sauce Ratio: When substituting coconut aminos with soy sauce, use a ratio of 1 cup of coconut aminos to ⅔ cup of soy sauce plus ⅓ cup of water to achieve a similar flavor balance without the sauce becoming too salty.

FAQs

What can I use instead of teriyaki sauce?

For a similar flavor profile, you can use a mix of soy sauce, a sweetener like honey or maple syrup, and a bit of ginger and garlic for depth.

What is a keto substitute for soy sauce?

Coconut aminos is a popular keto-friendly substitute for soy sauce, offering a similar umami flavor with fewer carbs and no gluten, making it ideal for low-carb diets.

Is soy sauce allowed on keto?

Yes, soy sauce is allowed on keto in moderation. Opt for low-sodium versions to reduce carb intake and avoid adding unnecessary sugars to your keto diet.

What is a substitute for brown sugar in teriyaki sauce?

A great substitute for brown sugar in teriyaki sauce is a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener, giving a similar sweetness without the carbs.

More sugar free asian sauces you might like

Craving more sugar-free Asian sauce magic? We’ve got you covered with these mouthwatering options that promise to keep your meals exciting and your taste buds happy.

  • Vietnamese Dipping Sauce (Nuoc Cham): A perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and spicy, this sauce is essential for Vietnamese salads, spring rolls, and grilled meats.
  • Thai Dipping Sauce (Nam Jim Jaew): A smoky, spicy sauce with a hint of sweetness, ideal for grilled meats and sticky rice.
  • Shacha Sauce: A savory, slightly spicy Taiwanese sauce with a hint of seafood flavor, great for stir-fries, noodles, hot pot, and barbecue.
  • Wonton Sauce: A sweet and spicy sauce with a garlic twist, perfect for dipping those delicious dumplings or drizzling over noodle dishes.

See my Top 20 Sauce for grilled chicken for more ideas!

A close shot to show a different angle of the sugar free sauce teriyaki recipe
A close shot to show a different angle of the sugar free sauce teriyaki recipe
5 from 12 votes

Keto Teriyaki Sauce Recipe (Sugar Free, Low Carb, Easy)

Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 16 tbsp
Author: ChihYu Smith
This Keto Teriyaki Sauce is sugar-free, low carb, and ready in 5 minutes! It’s the best Japanese teriyaki sauce made keto friendly! Makes 1 cup.
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Ingredients 

Instructions 

  • Combine ingredients: In a small to medium size pot, add ingredients from the coconut amino to the sweetener.
  • Simmer: Give it a stir and cover the pot with a lid. Bring it to a gentle simmer (not boiling) over medium-low heat, about 3 minutes.
  • Thicken: Slowly and gradually sprinkle in the xanthan gum little-by-little while whisking the simmering sauce at the same time. The sauce will thicken pretty quickly.
  • Enjoy: Turn off the heat. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before packing it to a mason jar. Taste and adjust with more sweetener. Store it in the fridge and best use it in 2-3 weeks.

Notes

  • Flavor Adjustments: Coconut aminos are sweeter and less salty than soy sauce. Feel free to play with the sweetness or saltiness to your taste.
  • Soy Sauce Swap: If you use soy sauce, remember it’s saltier. Adjust accordingly.
  • Sweetness Level: This keto sauce is less sweet than the store-bought versions. Add more sweetener if you like it sweeter.
  • Thickening Alternatives: You can use tapioca or arrowroot starch, but it’ll slightly up the carbs.
  • Marinade Magic: Skip the xanthan gum if you’re using this as a marinade.
    Simmer, Don’t Boil: To avoid bitterness and saltiness, simmer gently and avoid cooking it down too much.
  • A Little Goes a Long Way: Be conservative with xanthan gum to avoid a jelly-like consistency.
  • If use low sodium gluten-free tamari, the net carb is 1.
  • Please note: Bragg’s liquid amino is NOT the same as Coconut Aminos. It does not taste the same and the ingredients are not the same. If you use liquid aminos, you will be changing my recipe and I cannot guarantee what it will taste like.
  • Serving Suggestions: This versatile sauce pairs wonderfully with Tsukune (Japanese grilled chicken meatballs), Chicken Yakitori, Teriyaki chicken, grilled beef, and air fryer teriyaki salmon. It’s a game-changer for your keto-friendly culinary adventures!

Nutrition

Serving: 1tbsp, Calories: 2kcal, Carbohydrates: 2g, Protein: 0.03g, Fat: 0.004g, Saturated Fat: 0.001g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.001g, Monounsaturated Fat: 0.001g, Sodium: 18mg, Potassium: 4mg, Fiber: 0.05g, Sugar: 0.02g, Vitamin A: 0.03IU, Vitamin C: 0.1mg, Calcium: 1mg, Iron: 0.01mg
Course: sauce
Cuisine: Japanese
Keyword: Keto Teriyaki Sauce, Low Carb Teriyaki Sauce, Sugar Free Teriyaki Sauce
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?Tag @iheartumami.ny on Instagram and hashtag it #iheartumami.

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