Bachan's Japanese BBQ Sauce Recipe

This homemade Japanese BBQ sauce is bursting with umami flavor, inspired by the popular Bachan's brand. Unlike many store-bought varieties, this recipe is free of artificial ingredients and allows you to control the sweetness and spice level. It's perfect for grilling all kinds of proteins, from thinly sliced beef and chicken to grilled vegetables and tofu.
In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch of this versatile sauce that will become a staple in your grilling repertoire. The smoky notes from the sesame oil complement the sweetness of the brown sugar and mirin, while the tangy rice vinegar adds a touch of brightness. Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of heat.

Ingredients

• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 cup mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
• 1/2 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup grated fresh ginger
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine all ingredients. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.
3. Strain the sauce (optional) to remove any ginger or garlic bits. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.