Ponzu Sauce Recipe
This homemade ponzu sauce is a game-changer, delivering a perfect balance of citrusy brightness, deep umami, and subtle sweetness that elevates everything from sushi to grilled meats—far better than store-bought versions!
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fine mesh strainer
- Glass jar or airtight container for storage
Ingredients
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- ¼ cup lime juice
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp mirin
- 2 tbsp dashi stock
- 1 tbsp bonito flakes
- 1 tbsp sugar
Instructions
- Mix the Liquid Ingredients:In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, lemon juice, lime juice, rice vinegar, and mirin. Stir well to blend the flavors.
- Add the Dashi Stock:Pour in the dashi stock for an authentic umami depth. If you’re skipping dashi, use water instead.
- Sweeten and Enhance the Flavor:Add sugar if desired, and whisk until fully dissolved. If using bonito flakes, stir them in now to infuse additional umami.
- Let It Rest (Optional for Better Flavor):If using bonito flakes, let the mixture sit for 15–30 minutes to enhance the depth of flavor.
- Strain (If Using Bonito Flakes):Using a fine-mesh strainer, remove the bonito flakes to achieve a smooth sauce.
- Store & Use:Transfer the ponzu sauce to a glass jar or airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It’s best after resting for a few hours but can be used immediately.
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Notes
- Use Fresh Citrus Juice – Bottled lemon or lime juice lacks the brightness and complexity of fresh-squeezed juice, so always use fresh citrus.
- Let It Rest for Maximum Flavor – While you can use ponzu immediately, letting it sit for a few hours (or even overnight) allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust Sweetness & Acidity – If you prefer a sweeter ponzu, add more mirin or honey. If you want it tangier, increase the lemon/lime juice slightly.
- Make It Gluten-Free – Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to keep it gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
- Double the Batch & Store for Weeks – Ponzu lasts up to two weeks in the fridge, so making a larger batch ensures you always have this versatile sauce ready to go!
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Ponzu Sauce Recipe
Serving Size
15 g
Amount per Serving
Calories
10
% Daily Value*
Sodium
480
mg
21
%
Potassium
50
mg
1
%
Carbohydrates
2
g
1
%
Sugar
1
g
1
%
Protein
1
g
2
%
Vitamin C
4
mg
5
%
Calcium
5
mg
1
%
Iron
0.1
mg
1
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!