Tsuyu sauce is a traditional Japanese dipping sauce that is commonly used for dishes like tempura and soba noodles. The word "tsuyu" means "seasonal rain," which is a reference to the sauce's light and refreshing taste. This sauce is typically made with a combination of dashi (a type of Japanese soup stock), soy sauce, mirin (a sweet rice wine), and sugar.
The sauce can be easily prepared at home and is a delicious addition to any Japanese-style meal. In this recipe, I'll explain how to make Tsuyu sauce in a few simple steps.
Why This Recipe Works
This Tsuyu sauce recipe stands out because it uses traditional Japanese ingredients, creating an authentic and flavorful taste. It's also a very simple recipe to follow, making it perfect for beginners who want to try their hand at Japanese cuisine. Additionally, this sauce is quite versatile and can be adjusted according to your preferences, allowing you to create your own unique version.
Ingredients
Dashi - A Japanese soup stock, essential for the base flavor; you can use instant dashi powder or make it from scratch. Substitute: chicken or vegetable broth.
Soy sauce - Adds the distinct savory taste; choose a good-quality, low-sodium version. Substitute: tamari or coconut aminos.
Mirin - A sweet rice wine that adds depth and sweetness; available in most Asian grocery stores. Substitute: sweet sherry or a mix of sugar and rice vinegar.
Sake - Japanese rice wine that adds complexity to the flavor. Substitute: dry sherry or Chinese rice wine.
Sugar - Balances the flavors and enhances the overall taste. Substitute: honey or agave syrup.
Tips
- Adjust the ratio of soy sauce, mirin, and sake to suit your taste preferences.
- For a vegetarian version, use kombu dashi or vegetable broth instead of fish-based dashi.
- Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- You can dilute the sauce with water if you find it too strong or salty.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.
How to Serve
This Tsuyu sauce can be served both hot and cold, depending on the dish you're pairing it with. It's perfect for dipping noodles, tempura, or even as a marinade for grilled meats and vegetables.
- Cold soba or udon noodles - Serve the Tsuyu sauce in a small bowl for dipping chilled noodles.
- Tempura - Dip your favorite tempura-fried vegetables or seafood into the sauce for a delicious treat.
- Donburi - Drizzle the sauce over a rice bowl topped with your choice of protein and veggies.
Similar Recipes
Tsuyu Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 cups dashi
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup mirin
- ¼ cup sake
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it cool.
Nutrition
Notes
- Adjust the ratio of soy sauce, mirin, and sake to suit your taste preferences.
- For a vegetarian version, use kombu dashi or vegetable broth instead of fish-based dashi.
- Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- You can dilute the sauce with water if you find it too strong or salty.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.