Teriyaki VS Korean BBQ sauce -The Major Differences

Teriyaki sauce and Korean BBQ sauce are the two well preferable barbeque or grill sauces. But is teriyaki sauce similar to Korean BBQ sauce?

Teriyaki sauce is a Japanese BBQ sauce and Korean BBQ sauce from Korea. Is that so…

There are many similarities between Korean BBQ sauce and Teriyaki BBQ sauce, like use and impression, while there are many differences.

Today, I will explore Teriyaki VS Korean BBQ sauce- what is the major difference? 

A Quick Table Teriyaki sauce VS Korean BBQ Sauce

DifferTeriyaki – Japanese BBQ SauceKorean BBQ Sauce
OriginJapanese CuisineKorean Cuisine
TasteSweet & SaltyThe complex flavor of spicy sweet-salty
Made ofsoy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar soy sauce, gochujang (Korean chili paste), brown sugar, ginger paste, sesame oil, chili garlic sauce, Asian pear, rice vinegar, green onions, garlic cloves, and black peppers.
TextureThin and liquidthicker consistency than teriyaki sauce.
AppearanceDark Darker Than Teriyaki
Main UsesMeat Glaze, dipping sauceMarinate, Gilled sauce, Meat glaze & stir-fry seasoning.

Is Teriyaki sauce similar to Korean BBQ sauce?

There are similarities between teriyaki sauce and Korean BBQ sauce, but there are also some crucial differences. 

Teriyaki sauce contains soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. In contrast, Korean BBQ sauce often contains gochujang (red chili pepper paste), garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and brown sugar. 

Both sauces can be used for marinating meat or as a dipping sauce, but the flavors will differ. Korean BBQ sauce is usually spicier and more pungent, while teriyaki sauce is sweet and savory. Try both sauces to see which you prefer!

What is the difference between Teriyaki sauce and Korean BBQ Sauce in Detail…

Origin and About two sauces: Korean BBQ sauce vs Japanese BBQ sauce

What is Teriyaki sauce?

Teriyaki sauce is a famous sauce in Japanese cuisine. The word teriyaki merges two Japanese words: Teri, which mean luster, and yaki, the meaning of grill or broil.

Read More- Best Teriyaki Sauce Alternatives

What is Korean BBQ Sauce?

Korean BBQ sauce is a thick, sweet, and savory sauce used to marinate and glaze meat. The sauce has a deep umami flavor and a slightly sticky texture.

Other names for Korean BBQ sauce include bulgogi marinade, Galbi sauce, and gochujang glaze. 

Ingredients: Korean BBQ sauce vs Japanese Teriyaki BBQ sauce

What is in Teriyaki BBQ sauce- 

The main ingredients in teriyaki sauce are soy sauce, sake (rice wine), and mirin (sweet rice wine). Sometimes sugar, ginger, or garlic is added to the sauce for additional flavor.

The sauce is used as a marinade or glaze for meat, fish, and vegetables. Teriyaki sauce has a sweet and savory flavor that goes well with many dishes.

Teriyaki sauce comes in a variety of flavors. Some brands are Kikkoman, Yoshidas, and Takara. Teriyaki sauce can also be made at home with just a few ingredients.

What is in Korean BBQ Sauce-

It is made with mixed ingredients, including soy sauce, gochujang (Korean chili paste), brown sugar, ginger paste, sesame oil, chili garlic sauce, Asian pear, rice vinegar, and green onions, garlic cloves, and black peppers.

bbq sauce is a popular ingredient in kitchen and used in many recipes

Uses: Korean BBQ sauce vs Teriyaki sauce

Teriyaki sauce uses

Teriyaki sauce is a versatile condiment that can be used in many different ways. It can be used as a marinade for meats such as chicken, beef, or pork. 

It can also be used to glaze grilled or baked foods. Teriyaki sauce can also be used as a dipping sauce or added to soups and stews.

It is a fast and straightforward way to add flavor to meals and a versatile condiment that can be used in various ways. Teriyaki sauce is a great way to flavor your food without adding extra calories. Try it on chicken, fish, vegetables, or rice dishes.

Korean BBQ sauce or Galbi sauce uses

This sauce is typically used to marinate chicken, beef, or pork before grilling or frying. Or beef, but it can also be used on vegetables or tofu and also be utilized as a dipping sauce or stir-fry seasoning.

Also, Glaze for grilled or roasted meat, Base for soup or stew. Salad dressing, Sauce for rice or noodles, and Barbecue sauce.

How to Prepare at home: Korean BBQ sauce vs Japanese BBQ sauce

teriyaki vs korean bbq sauce

How to make Teriyaki sauce at home?

Making your own teriyaki sauce is comfortable and much tastier than store-bought versions! This homemade sauce is perfect for stir-fries, grilling, or marinating meats.

To make the sauce, simply combine soy sauce, mirin (a sweet Japanese cooking wine), sake (or dry white wine), and sugar in a pan over medium heat. 

Bring the mixture to a boil, then let it simmer until it thickens. Finally, add some freshly grated ginger for an extra zing.

If you like your teriyaki sauce on the sweeter side, feel free to add more sugar to the taste. 

Add a bit of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a spicier version.

Once you’ve made your sauce, it’s time to start cooking! Grilled chicken or salmon are both excellent choices for teriyaki. Simply brush the meat with the sauce and cook it until it’s nicely browned and cooked through.

If you’re searching for an effortless weeknight meal, try using teriyaki sauce to make a stir-fry. Add your favorite vegetables and proteins to a pan or wok and toss them with the sauce. Serve over steamed rice, and enjoy!

Korean BBQ sauce not same as Teriyaki sauce

How to make Korean BBQ sauce at home?

The Korean bbq sauce is easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. 

Pour into a blender or food processor and blend until smooth- combine soy sauce, gochujang (Korean chili paste), brown sugar, ginger paste, sesame oil, chili garlic sauce, Asian pear, rice vinegar, green onions, garlic cloves, and black peppers.

Bring to a simmer over medium flame in a small saucepan, stirring occasionally. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. 

To use, simply brush or drizzle over grilled meats or vegetables. Be sure to brush on a generous amount of sauce to get that delicious flavor. Serve Korean bbq sauce with steamed rice, grilled meats, and vegetables.

It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or frozen for up to six months.

Where to Find & How to store – Teriyaki VS Korean BBQ Sauce

Where to buy Korean BBQ sauce and How to Store Korean BBQ sauce?

Korean BBQ sauce is available for purchase at most Asian markets. It can be purchased online for those who do not have access to an Asian market. 

Once opened, Korean BBQ sauce should be refrigerated and used within two months.

Where to buy Teriyaki sauce, and How to Store teriyaki sauce?

You can purchase teriyaki sauce at most major grocery stores. You can also find it at specialty Asian markets.

To store teriyaki sauce, simply place it in a covered container and refrigerate it. It will last for several months in the fridge.

Read More- Best substitute for Gochujang Paste

Bottom Line – Major Difference between Japanese BBQ and Korean BBQ Sauce

The two sauces differ by taste, texture, ingredients, serving, and uses. 

Teriyaki sauce is sweeter and has a thinner consistency than Korean BBQ sauce. It is typically served as a dipping sauce or glazes for grilled meats or fish and stirs fry. 

Korean BBQ sauce is spicier and has a thicker consistency than teriyaki sauce. It is typically used to marinade grilled meats or vegetables and add flavor

By Ingredients Teriyaki sauce is simply made of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar; it sometimes adds sake. But Korean BBQ sauce has many ingredients, including soy sauce, garlic, chili garlic, gochujang, dark brown sugar, spring onions, and more… 

That’s why teriyaki sauce has a simple sweet and salty flavor, whereas Korean BBQ sauce has a more complex and savory flavor.

FAQs

What are the 3 Korean bBQ sauces?

The three most common Korean BBQ sauces are ssamjang, gochujang, and doenjang. 

Ssamjang is a thick, savory sauce made with gochujang, doenjang, sesame oil, garlic, onion, and green onions. 

Gochujang is a hot and spicy red pepper paste produced from fermented soybeans, chilli peppers, and sticky rice.

Doenjang is a salty, earthy-flavored fermented soybean paste.

These three sauces are commonly used in Korean cooking and add a delicious depth of flavor to any dish.

What is the difference between bibimbap and bulgogi?

Bibimbap is a Korean dish made of rice, vegetables, and meat. Bulgogi is a Korean dish made of grilled marinated beef. 

The difference between bibimbap and bulgogi is that bibimbap is served with various toppings, while bulgogi is simply grilled beef. 

Bibimbap is traditionally served in a heated stone bowl to keep the rice and vegetables warm. Bulgogi is often served over rice or noodles.

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