Teriyaki Sauce vs. Katsu Sauce: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Published on February 21, 2024
Teriyaki sauce, a sweet and slightly tangy mix of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, is used for marinating and glazing; katsu sauce, a thicker, Worcestershire-based condiment, is used as a dipping sauce for breaded cutlets.
Key Differences
Teriyaki sauce, originating from Japan, is a blend of soy sauce, mirin (or sake), and sugar, creating a balance of sweet and savory flavors. Katsu sauce, also Japanese, is a thicker sauce made primarily from Worcestershire sauce, sugar, and spices, offering a tangy and slightly sweet taste.
Teriyaki sauce is often used as a marinade and glazing for grilled or broiled meats and vegetables, imparting a glossy finish. Katsu sauce is typically served as a dipping sauce for breaded, fried cutlets (tonkatsu), providing a rich, tangy complement.
The consistency of teriyaki sauce is thinner and more liquid, suitable for marinating and basting. Katsu sauce, on the other hand, is thicker and more robust, akin to barbecue sauce, ideal for dipping without soaking into the breaded coating.
In terms of versatility, teriyaki sauce is used in a variety of dishes beyond meat, including stir-fries and as a seasoning for sushi rolls. Katsu sauce, while primarily used for tonkatsu, can also be used with other fried foods or as a flavorful addition to sandwiches.
The sweetness in teriyaki sauce comes from the natural sugars in mirin or added sugar, while katsu sauce gets its unique flavor profile from a combination of ingredients including Worcestershire sauce, pureed fruits, sugar, and a blend of spices.
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Comparison Chart
Base Ingredients
Soy sauce, mirin (or sake), sugar.
Worcestershire sauce, sugar, spices.
Consistency
Thinner, more liquid.
Thicker, akin to barbecue sauce.
Primary Use
Marinade and glazing for meats and vegetables.
Dipping sauce for breaded, fried cutlets.
Taste Profile
Sweet and savory.
Tangy and slightly sweet.
Versatility in Dishes
Used in a variety of Japanese dishes.
Primarily used for tonkatsu, adaptable to other fried foods.
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Teriyaki Sauce and Katsu Sauce Definitions
Teriyaki Sauce
Teriyaki sauce is commonly used in stir-fries and as a topping for sushi.
The stir-fry vegetables were tossed in teriyaki sauce for extra flavor.
Katsu Sauce
Katsu sauce is a thick, tangy sauce used as a dip for Japanese breaded cutlets.
We dipped our pork cutlets in katsu sauce for extra flavor.
Teriyaki Sauce
Teriyaki sauce is a sweet and savory Japanese sauce used for marinating and glazing.
The chicken was marinated in teriyaki sauce for an hour before grilling.
Katsu Sauce
Katsu sauce can be used in sandwiches and other fried dishes.
I spread some katsu sauce on my sandwich for an extra kick.
Teriyaki Sauce
Teriyaki sauce combines soy sauce, mirin, and sugar in its preparation.
I made homemade teriyaki sauce by mixing soy sauce, mirin, and a hint of sugar.
Katsu Sauce
Katsu sauce has a rich, robust flavor profile ideal for fried foods.
The katsu sauce was a perfect complement to the crispy chicken.
Teriyaki Sauce
Teriyaki sauce is known for its balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
The teriyaki sauce added a perfect sweet and tangy taste to the beef skewers.
Katsu Sauce
Katsu sauce is made from Worcestershire sauce, sugar, and spices.
I love the unique flavor of katsu sauce, with its Worcestershire and spicy blend.
Teriyaki Sauce
Teriyaki sauce imparts a glossy finish to dishes.
The teriyaki sauce gave the grilled salmon a beautiful, shiny glaze.
Katsu Sauce
Katsu sauce is commonly served with tonkatsu, a breaded pork dish.
The tonkatsu was incomplete without a side of katsu sauce.
FAQs
What is teriyaki sauce?
Teriyaki sauce is a Japanese sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, used for marinating and glazing.
What is katsu sauce?
Katsu sauce is a thick, tangy Japanese sauce made from Worcestershire sauce, sugar, and spices, primarily used as a dipping sauce.
What dishes are best with teriyaki sauce?
Teriyaki sauce is great with grilled meats, stir-fries, and as a seasoning for sushi rolls.
Is katsu sauce suitable for marinating?
Katsu sauce is not typically used for marinating; it's best as a dipping sauce for breaded, fried foods.
How do I make homemade teriyaki sauce?
Combine soy sauce, mirin (or sake), and sugar in a saucepan and simmer until thickened.
What are the main flavors in katsu sauce?
Katsu sauce has a tangy, slightly sweet flavor with a hint of spice.
Is teriyaki sauce vegan?
Traditional teriyaki sauce is vegan, but always check labels for any non-vegan additives.
Is katsu sauce spicy?
Katsu sauce is not typically spicy, but it has a robust, tangy flavor.
Can teriyaki sauce be used as a dip?
Yes, teriyaki sauce can be used as a dip, but it is more commonly used for marinating and glazing.
Can I use katsu sauce in a stir-fry?
While not common, katsu sauce can be used in stir-fries for a unique flavor twist.
What meat pairs well with teriyaki sauce?
Chicken, beef, and salmon are excellent when cooked with teriyaki sauce.
Are there different types of teriyaki sauce?
Yes, teriyaki sauces can vary in sweetness, thickness, and additional flavorings.
How long can I store homemade teriyaki sauce?
Homemade teriyaki sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
What makes katsu sauce different from barbecue sauce?
Katsu sauce has a unique tang and sweetness different from the smoky flavor of barbecue sauce.
Can I use teriyaki sauce on vegetables?
Absolutely, teriyaki sauce is excellent on grilled or stir-fried vegetables.
What is the best way to use katsu sauce?
The best way to use katsu sauce is as a dipping sauce for breaded and fried meats like tonkatsu.
Does katsu sauce contain gluten?
Yes, most katsu sauces contain gluten due to the Worcestershire sauce base.
Can I freeze katsu sauce?
Yes, katsu sauce can be frozen, but it may separate when thawed; just stir well before using.
Is teriyaki sauce high in sodium?
Yes, due to its soy sauce base, teriyaki sauce can be high in sodium.
Can I use katsu sauce on non-Japanese dishes?
Yes, katsu sauce can be creatively used on various dishes, including burgers and fries.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
