Crafting flavorful sauces on a keto diet might seem tricky, but this keto teriyaki sauce is the savory-sweet solution you didn’t know you needed. In this article, I’ll share the easy recipe I use every week, the best ways to enjoy it, and how to tweak it for your exact dietary needs. Whether you’re looking to replace traditional soy sauce or find a low-carb stir-fry staple, this keto teriyaki sauce hits the spot—without the sugar spike.
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How Keto Teriyaki Sauce Became My NYC Kitchen Staple
Childhood Cravings, Grown-Up Solutions
When I moved to New York City from Naples, I missed the comfort of my mom’s rustic Italian sauces, but I also discovered something new—Japanese takeout. Teriyaki chicken quickly became a favorite. Sweet, sticky, salty… it was everything my young palate loved. But as my cooking evolved, and especially when I embraced a lower-carb lifestyle, I realized the bottled versions were loaded with sugar and wheat. That’s when I knew I had to create my own keto teriyaki sauce—something just as flavorful but totally guilt-free.
One night, craving that nostalgic umami glaze but needing something keto-friendly, I went into my tiny kitchen and started mixing. A little coconut aminos, a brown sugar substitute, fresh ginger and garlic—just like my mom used to crush for Sunday sauces. I added a splash of apple cider vinegar for bite. The result? A homemade keto teriyaki sauce that was bold, balanced, and better than the bottled kind.
Recreating Takeout Memories with a Keto Twist
What I love about this keto teriyaki sauce is its versatility. It’s not just for grilled chicken. I’ve drizzled it over pan-seared fish, tossed it with sautéed veggies, and even spooned it into a cottage cheese pizza bowl for a fun twist. It brings that same depth of flavor without compromising my blood sugar or keto goals.
In fact, once I nailed this keto teriyaki sauce recipe, it unlocked a whole new world of keto-friendly Asian-inspired meals. Like my mom always said, “Ivana, you have a delicious hand.” I think she’d be proud of this one. And if you’re new to keto sauces or just looking to reduce processed ingredients, this recipe is the perfect place to start.
Making Keto Teriyaki Sauce at Home
Keto-Friendly Ingredients That Deliver Bold Flavor
Traditional teriyaki sauce relies heavily on sugar and soy—two ingredients that don’t fit cleanly into a keto lifestyle. That’s why this version uses smart substitutions that keep the flavor intact without the carbs. The base is either soy sauce or coconut aminos. If sodium is a concern, I recommend using low-sodium soy sauce or fully swapping to coconut aminos, which are naturally gluten-free and soy-free.
For sweetness, a brown sugar substitute does the trick. You can use something like Swerve Brown or Lakanto Golden. If you’re after that deep, caramel-like complexity of traditional sauces, try adding a few drops of molasses to your favorite white sweetener—it won’t spike your carb count much, but it’ll elevate the richness beautifully.
Fresh garlic and ginger are non-negotiable. They give the sauce that punchy backbone and fragrant warmth. Finally, a splash of apple cider vinegar adds acidity that balances the sweetness and saltiness. It also doubles as a natural preservative, which means this sauce stays fresh longer in the fridge.
This keto teriyaki sauce not only works with Asian dishes, but also adds magic to something unexpected like grilled steak or even keto fish cakes for a fusion twist.
Quick Cooking Method & Smart Storage Tips
Once your ingredients are prepped, the process couldn’t be simpler. Just stir everything together in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through—about 3 to 5 minutes. If you prefer a thicker, glossier sauce, you can whisk in a pinch of xanthan gum at the end. Just go slowly—it thickens quickly and a little goes a long way.
This sauce stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it in a small jar or silicone tray for quick weeknight use. I often freeze it over marinated chicken thighs or veggies, then defrost the whole thing together—talk about a meal prep win.
Here’s a quick look at the essentials:
| Ingredient | Keto-Friendly Option |
|---|---|
| Soy Sauce | Low-sodium or Coconut Aminos |
| Brown Sugar | Erythritol or Monk Fruit |
| Thickener | Xanthan Gum (optional) |
Delicious Ways to Use Keto Teriyaki Sauce
Weeknight Meals: Stir-Fry, Wings & Salmon
Once you’ve got your keto teriyaki sauce ready, the possibilities open up fast. One of my favorite go-to meals is a simple skillet chicken teriyaki stir-fry. Sauté sliced chicken breast or thighs in a little avocado oil, add low-carb veggies like bell peppers or bok choy, and pour the sauce right over. The flavor seeps into everything, thickens slightly, and transforms your pan into a takeout dream—without the carbs or hidden sugars.
This sauce is also incredible over baked salmon. I brush it on in the last 5–7 minutes of roasting, then serve with something crisp and fresh like my shopska salad. The contrast between that rich glaze and crunchy cucumber and feta is addictive in the best way.
And don’t sleep on wings! Toss crispy oven-baked or air-fried chicken wings in this keto teriyaki sauce while they’re still hot. A quick broil afterward gives them that caramelized edge you usually only get with sugar-loaded sauces.
Print
Keto Teriyaki Sauce
- Total Time: 10 min
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This easy keto teriyaki sauce is full of sweet, salty, and savory flavor without the sugar or carbs. Ready in minutes and perfect for stir-fries, marinades, and more!
Ingredients
– 3/4 cup soy sauce or coconut aminos
– 1/4 cup brown sugar substitute
– 1 tbsp garlic chopped
– 1 tbsp fresh ginger peeled and chopped
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
1. Stir together all the ingredients.
Notes
Sweetener: You can use your favorite brown sugar substitute or add a few drops of molasses to a white sweetener.
Sodium: Soy sauce is naturally high in sodium. If this is a concern for you, use low sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos.
Gluten-Free: You can either use a gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos.
To Store: Keep the keto teriyaki sauce in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 5 days.
To Freeze: This sauce can be frozen in a freezer bag or sealed container for up to 2 months. It can also be frozen on meat or veggies. Thaw on the counter for a few minutes or in the fridge the night before.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 5 min
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 15
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: keto teriyaki sauce, sugar-free teriyaki, low carb sauce
Dipping, Drizzling & Marinades: Endless Possibilities
This sauce isn’t just for main courses—it’s one of those things you’ll reach for again and again once it’s in your fridge. Use it as a dipping sauce for sliced cucumbers, cauliflower tempura, or even seared tofu. It makes a wonderful drizzle over rice-free poke bowls or grilled shrimp skewers.
Marinating? Absolutely. Just combine this keto teriyaki sauce with a splash of sesame oil and coat chicken, beef, or pork before grilling. Let it sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight—the flavors will soak in and give your protein that signature sweet-savory depth.
Keto Substitutions & Smart Sauce Hacks
Soy Sauce Swaps & Sweetener Alternatives
Whether you’re avoiding soy, watching your sodium, or just like to shake things up, this keto teriyaki sauce is endlessly customizable. One of the most common swaps is replacing soy sauce with coconut aminos. It’s slightly sweeter and much lower in sodium—perfect for anyone looking for a gentler alternative.
If you’re craving a more intense umami flavor, try using a blend: half low-sodium tamari (which is gluten-free) and half coconut aminos. This gives you a deeper, bolder base without overdoing the salt.
When it comes to sweeteners, erythritol and monk fruit blends are your best friends. They dissolve easily and mimic brown sugar well. But if you’re missing that tiny hint of bitterness found in traditional teriyaki, stir in just a drop or two of molasses—yes, even on keto. It won’t raise the carb count much, but it adds that authentic depth you can taste.
And if you’re already a sauce lover, you might enjoy alternating this recipe with others like my tangy easy keto mayonnaise or herb-packed basil chimichurri for a completely different flavor profile.
Make It Gluten-Free, Low Sodium, or Extra Spicy
This recipe is already gluten-free if you use coconut aminos or tamari, but always double-check your ingredients—some vinegars or soy sauce brands sneak in hidden gluten. For sodium-conscious cooks, I recommend cutting the soy sauce base with filtered water and adding a touch more garlic and vinegar to maintain boldness without salt overload.
Want some heat? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a drizzle of chili oil. Or try whisking in a little wasabi for a sinus-clearing zing that’s unexpectedly good over roasted vegetables or grilled steak.
You can also play with texture. If you love a thick, glossy glaze (especially for sticky wings or drizzling over seared meats), dissolve ¼ teaspoon of xanthan gum into the hot sauce and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes until thickened. No need for starches or cornstarch.
For creamy-spicy fusion vibes, stir a teaspoon of this sauce into a cottage cheese pizza bowl or even swirl it into your keto stir-fried eggs. It’s all about making the most of simple ingredients in new, exciting ways.
Frequently Asked Questions About Keto Teriyaki Sauce
What sauces are allowed on keto?
Keto diets allow many sauces, as long as they’re low in carbs and sugar. Common keto-friendly sauces include mayonnaise, ranch, mustard, vinaigrettes, and homemade versions of classics—like this keto teriyaki sauce. Always check labels for hidden sugars or thickeners like cornstarch.
What is a keto alternative to soy sauce?
Coconut aminos is the most common soy sauce substitute on keto. It’s made from fermented coconut sap, contains less sodium, and is naturally gluten-free. Tamari is another alternative that offers a similar umami profile while being wheat-free, making it a good option for gluten-sensitive keto eaters.
What is a substitute for teriyaki sauce?
If you’re avoiding sugar or following a low-carb lifestyle, a homemade keto teriyaki sauce is the best substitute. Just blend coconut aminos or tamari with a brown sugar substitute, garlic, ginger, and vinegar to get that same bold flavor without the carbs.
What Chinese sauce is keto friendly?
Most traditional Chinese sauces are high in sugar and starch, but keto-friendly versions can be made at home. Options like sugar-free stir-fry sauce, sesame garlic sauce, or low-carb hoisin can all be recreated using low-carb sweeteners, soy or coconut aminos, vinegar, and fresh aromatics like garlic and ginger.
Conclusion
This keto teriyaki sauce has become a staple in my kitchen because it brings bold, nostalgic flavor to low-carb meals—without the sugar crash. Whether you’re tossing it with stir-fry, brushing it on grilled salmon, or drizzling it over veggies, it adds serious umami punch and fits beautifully into a keto lifestyle.
Homemade sauces like this one remind me why I started Delicious Hand—to take soulful, comforting recipes and make them approachable for every kind of cook. I hope this one finds a spot in your weekly rotation. Try it once, and you’ll never go back to the bottled stuff.
From my NYC kitchen to yours, buon appetito—and happy stirring. If you enjoyed this recipe, I’d love to stay connected! Follow me on Facebook and Pinterest for more cozy, flavor-packed recipes straight from my kitchen.
