How to Make Eel Sauce? An Easy Recipe for Homemade Eel Sauce

Are you a fan of Japanese cuisine and wondering how to make eel sauce? If so, you’re in the right place! Eel sauce, also known as unagi or kabayaki sauce, is a savory, sweet and umami sauce that adds depth and flavor to a variety of dishes.

As someone who has experimented with making eel sauce in the kitchen, I’ve found that the key ingredients include soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar. But have you ever wondered about the history of eel sauce?

Eel sauce has been a staple in Japanese cuisine for centuries and is commonly used as a glaze for grilled eel or unagi. In fact, eel is a prized ingredient in Japan and is often served during special occasions. The sauce itself is made from a combination of soy sauce, sugar, and mirin (a sweet Japanese rice wine), which is then boiled down to create a thick and glossy sauce.

Whether you’re looking to enhance the flavor of grilled eel or add an extra layer of flavor to your sushi rolls, learning how to make eel sauce is a valuable skill for any fan of Japanese cuisine. So, let’s dive into the rich history and delicious taste of this beloved sauce.

What is eel sauce?

Eel sauce is a popular condiment in Japanese cuisine that is known for its sweet and savory flavor. As mentioned earlier, eel sauce is made from a combination of soy sauce, sugar, and mirin, which are boiled down to create a thick and glossy sauce.

Despite its name, eel sauce does not actually contain any eels or eel eggs. The name “eel sauce” comes from the fact that it is traditionally used as a glaze for grilled eel, also known as unagi.

In grocery stores, eel sauce can often be found under the name “unagi sauce” or “kabayaki sauce”. It is typically sold in a bottle or a small container, and can be found in the Asian foods section of most grocery stores.

So, what does eel sauce taste like? Eel sauce has a sweet and savory flavor, with notes of umami and a subtle hint of caramel. It is also slightly salty due to the soy sauce. The flavor is similar to teriyaki sauce but with a richer and more complex taste.

Now, to answer the most common question asked about eel sauce – does it taste fishy? Despite containing no fish, some people may perceive a slightly fishy taste due to the umami flavor of the sauce. However, this taste is not overpowering and is often balanced out by the sweetness of the sauce.

So, eel sauce is a delicious and versatile condiment that can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes. Despite its name, it contains no actual eels or eel eggs, and has a unique sweet and savory taste that is sure to delight your taste buds.

Is it safe to eat eel sauce?

When it comes to the safety of eel sauce, it is generally considered safe to eat in moderation. However, like most condiments, eel sauce is high in sodium due to the presence of soy sauce. Therefore, it is recommended to consume it in moderation, especially if you are watching your sodium intake.

As for the question of whether eel sauce is vegan, the answer is no. Traditional eel sauce is made with soy sauce, which often contains traces of fish, and is therefore not suitable for a vegan diet. However, some brands offer vegan-friendly versions of eel sauce made with plant-based ingredients.

In terms of calories, eel sauce is relatively low in calories compared to other condiments like mayonnaise or ketchup. A single tablespoon of eel sauce contains around 15-20 calories, but this can vary depending on the brand and recipe used.

If you are interested in the nutritional information of eel sauce, a single tablespoon typically contains around 3-4 grams of carbohydrates, 1-2 grams of sugar, and 200-300 milligrams of sodium. While eel sauce may not be the healthiest condiment, it can be enjoyed in moderation as a flavorful addition to a balanced diet.

How to make eel sauce?

If you’re looking for how to make eel sauce without mirin, you may be wondering what ingredients you can use to create that sweet and savory flavor. While mirin is a common ingredient in eel sauce, there are still plenty of ways to make it without this sweet rice wine.

Let’s take a closer look at what eel sauce is made of and what ingredients you can use to create this delicious sauce.

What is eel sauce made of?

Eel sauce is typically made with just three simple ingredients:

• Soy sauce: 1 cup
• Rice vinegar: ½ cup
• White wine: ½ cup
• Brown sugar: ¼ cup

Soy sauce

There are several different types of soy sauce available, but Japanese soy sauce is the best option for making eel sauce.

Japanese soy sauce, also known as shoyu, is made from a combination of soybeans, wheat, salt, and water. It has a rich, savory flavor with a balance of salty and sweet notes that pairs well with the other ingredients in eel sauce. Other types of soy sauce, such as Chinese or Korean soy sauce, may have a stronger flavor that could overpower the other flavors in the sauce.

When purchasing soy sauce for eel sauce, look for a high-quality Japanese soy sauce that is specifically labeled as “shoyu”. Some popular brands of Japanese soy sauce include Kikkoman, Yamasa, and Marunaka.

Rice vinegar

When it comes to choosing the type of rice vinegar to use, it’s important to opt for a high-quality brand that is made specifically for sushi or Japanese cuisine. This will ensure that the vinegar has the right balance of acidity and sweetness that is needed to make a delicious eel sauce.

Japanese rice vinegar is the best option for making eel sauce, as it has a milder flavor than other types of rice vinegar. It is made from fermented rice and has a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the other ingredients in eel sauce. Other types of rice vinegar, such as Chinese or Korean rice vinegar, may be too acidic or sharp in flavor and could affect the overall taste of the sauce.

If you can’t find Japanese rice vinegar, you can use a combination of white vinegar and sugar as a substitute. Simply mix together equal parts white vinegar and sugar, and heat the mixture in a saucepan over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool before using it in place of rice vinegar in your eel sauce recipe.

White wine

As for white wine, any dry white wine can be used in eel sauce. The wine you choose should have a mild flavor and not be too sweet or acidic, as this could affect the flavor of the sauce.

Some good options for white wine to use in eel sauce include Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Blanc. These wines have a neutral flavor profile that pairs well with the other ingredients in the sauce.

If you don’t have any white wine on hand or prefer not to use it, you can simply use rice wine vinegar in its place. This will still result in a delicious and flavorful eel sauce.

You can find the required ingredients for eel sauce at most grocery stores, particularly in the Asian foods section. Alternatively, you can also purchase them online from specialty food stores or Asian grocery stores. It’s important to read the labels and choose high-quality ingredients to ensure the best results.

How long to cook eel sauce?

Making eel sauce is a simple and quick process that usually takes no more than 10-15 minutes. The actual cooking time for eel sauce is typically only a few minutes, as you only need to heat the sauce until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce has thickened to the desired consistency.

How to make unagi sauce?

Here are step-by-step instructions on how to make eel sauce with rice vinegar:

• In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, white wine, and brown sugar. Stir the mixture until the sugar has dissolved.
• Place the saucepan on the stove over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
• Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened and reduced by about one-third.
• Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
• Once the sauce has cooled, transfer it to a clean, airtight container and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Tips to make the best eel sauce

• Use high-quality ingredients, including Japanese soy sauce, rice vinegar, and white wine.
• Stir the sauce regularly while it’s simmering to prevent it from burning.
• Let the sauce cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator.
• Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less brown sugar.

Common mistakes to avoid while making eel sauce

• Allowing the sauce to boil too vigorously can cause it to burn or become too thick.
• Using too much sugar can make the sauce overly sweet and cloying.
• Using too little soy sauce can result in a weak and flavorless sauce.

Why this recipe works?

The combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, white wine, and brown sugar creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile that is both savory and sweet. The soy sauce provides a rich umami flavor, while the rice vinegar and white wine add a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the sauce. The brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness that helps to balance out the saltiness of the soy sauce.

The cooking technique used in this recipe, which involves simmering the sauce until it thickens and reduces by about one-third, helps to concentrate the flavors and create a thick, syrupy sauce that coats the eel or any other dish perfectly.

Maybe you need know: How To Make Honey Gold Sauce at Home?

Nutrition facts of this homemade eel sauce recipe

The approximate nutrition facts for this eel sauce recipe, based on the listed ingredients and serving size of 1 tablespoon:

• Calories: 25 kcal
• Total Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 484mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 6g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 1g

Note that these nutrition facts may vary slightly depending on the specific brands of ingredients used and the exact proportions of each ingredient in the recipe. It is always a good idea to double-check the nutrition information for any recipe using a trusted online nutrition calculator or database.

What to make with eel sauce?

Traditional dishes that go well with eel sauce

Eel sauce, also known as unagi sauce or kabayaki sauce, is a versatile condiment that is commonly used in Japanese cuisine. Here are some traditional dishes that go well with eel sauce:

• Unagi donburi (grilled eel over rice): This classic Japanese dish features grilled eel served over a bed of steamed rice and drizzled with eel sauce.

• Sushi rolls: Eel sauce is a popular topping for sushi rolls, particularly those that contain eel, avocado, and cucumber.
• Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers): Brush eel sauce onto grilled chicken skewers for a savory, umami flavor.
• Tempura: Eel sauce pairs well with tempura, particularly shrimp or vegetable tempura.
• Noodle dishes: Add a splash of eel sauce to udon or soba noodle dishes for an extra boost of flavor.

Ideas for using eel sauce in creative ways

Eel sauce is a versatile condiment that can be used in many different ways beyond traditional Japanese dishes. Here are some creative ideas for using eel sauce:

• Grilled meats: Use eel sauce as a glaze for grilled meats, such as pork chops or beef skewers, for a sweet and savory flavor.
• Roasted vegetables: Drizzle eel sauce over roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes, for an unexpected burst of flavor.
• Dip for fries or onion rings: Use eel sauce as a dipping sauce for fries or onion rings, or as a spread on burgers or sandwiches.
• Salad dressing: Mix eel sauce with olive oil and rice vinegar for a unique and flavorful salad dressing.
• Marinade for seafood: Use eel sauce as a marinade for seafood, such as shrimp or scallops, before grilling or pan-searing.

How long does eel sauce last?

To store eel sauce, transfer it to a clean, airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent air from getting in, as exposure to air can cause the sauce to spoil more quickly.

It is also important to use a clean utensil when scooping out the sauce, as any bacteria or contaminants can lead to spoilage. Properly stored, eel sauce can last for up to several months in the refrigerator. However, it is best to consume it within 2-3 weeks for optimal freshness and flavor.

If you have made a large batch of eel sauce and do not think you will use it all within a few weeks, you can also freeze it for longer-term storage. Simply transfer the sauce to a freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for up to several months.

FAQs

Is unagi sauce the same as soy sauce?

No, unagi sauce is not the same as soy sauce, although soy sauce is one of the main ingredients in making unagi sauce. Unagi sauce, also known as eel sauce, is a sweet and savory sauce that is commonly used in Japanese cuisine as a condiment for grilled eel (unagi) dishes such as unagi donburi or unagi sushi.

Does eel sauce taste like eel?

No, eel sauce does not taste like eel. While eel is one of the main ingredients in making unagi sauce, the sauce itself has a unique flavor profile that is distinct from the taste of eel.

What if I make gluten-free eel sauce?

To make gluten-free eel sauce, you will need to substitute the regular soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari sauce from Kikkoman brand.

What can I use if I don’t make eel sauce?

Teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce is a sweet and savory sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and mirin (a sweet rice wine). It can be used as a substitute for eel sauce in sushi rolls, as a glaze for grilled meats, or as a dipping sauce for tempura.

Hoisin sauce: Hoisin sauce is a thick, sweet and savory sauce made from soybeans, garlic, vinegar, and spices. It has a similar sweet and salty flavor profile to eel sauce and can be used as a dipping sauce for sushi or as a glaze for grilled meats.

Soy sauce and sugar: If you don’t have any of the above sauces on hand, you can make a quick and easy eel sauce substitute by mixing together soy sauce and sugar in equal parts. This mixture can be used as a dipping sauce or drizzled over sushi rolls for added flavor.

Conclusion

Learning how to make eel sauce is a simple and rewarding experience. By combining soy sauce, rice vinegar, white wine, and brown sugar, you can create a sweet and savory sauce that adds a delicious flavor to a variety of dishes.

It’s important to use high-quality ingredients and to pay attention to the cooking process in order to achieve the perfect consistency and taste. While it may take some practice to get it just right, the end result is definitely worth it.

One of the great things about eel sauce is its versatility – it can be used as a dipping sauce, glaze, or marinade for a wide variety of dishes.

So, whether you’re a sushi lover or just looking to experiment with new flavors in the kitchen, learning how to make eel sauce is definitely worth a try!