Flavorful Ponzu Sauce Recipe

My chef’s perfected recipe for Ponzu Sauce, a refreshing citrus-based Japanese condiment used as a dipping sauce, marinade or dressing for vegetables, noodles, salads, or Poke Bowls!  Easy to make in 5 minutes, vegan! Gluten-free adaptable!

This Ponzu sauce recipe comes straight from my former restaurant and catering business. As a chef, I’ve come to appreciate its simple yet vibrant flavor! It’s one of those sauces that makes everything a little bit better. Bright, happy, and tangy with real citrus juice, it adds a delicious brightness and savory depth to Asian dishes, giving them a burst of flavor!  A five-minute sauce that truly elevates!

What I love about this Ponzu Sauce is how light and low-calorie it is- it’s low in oil, having only a touch of toasted sesame oil for flavor.

What is Ponzu Sauce?

If unfamiliar, Ponzu is a classic Japanese condiment, a citrus and soy-based sauce similar to a vinaigrette or dressing. I like to think of it as a peppy dressing, and it likes to be paired with raw veggies and fish!

We’ve been using this on our Poke bowls in this Avocado Salad , with these Sushi Burritos, and most recently with this Grilled Bok Choy.

What does Ponzu Sauce taste like?

Ponzu sauce tastes bright and citrusy, with a subtle sweetness and umami flavor from soy sauce. It is light, refreshing and flavorful.

What is Ponzu Sauce used for?

Use Ponzu Sauce as a light dressing for Poke bowls or salads. It makes a delicious dipping sauce or use it as a marinade. Spoon it over rice for a little burst of flavor.

Ponzu Recipe Ingredients

• Soy sauce – or substitute, tamari or  gluten-free Liquid Amino’s
• Fresh citrus – yuzu is traditional, here we substitute meyer lemon, orange, mandarine or tangerine.
• Mirin – or substitute a mix of honey and water
• Rice wine vinegar
• Toasted Sesame oil
• Garnish with: sesame seeds and optional chili flakes

How to make Ponzu Sauce

It really can’t be any simpler!

1. Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl.
2. Taste and adjust sweetness (more mirin) or citrus juice to your taste.   Some citrus, like oranges, will be sweeter than yuzu- so adjust accordingly.

Ponzu Sauce Serving suggestions

• Use it as a dressing for cold noodles or salads like this Avocado Salad
• Drizzle it over grilled veggies, like this Grilled Bok Choy!
• Use it as a dipping sauce for Sushi  or Sushi Burritos
• Spoon it over Poke Bowls
• Use it as a marinade for grilled chicken or shrimp- similar to this

Storing Homemade Ponzu Sauce

Store in a sealed jar for up to 4 days in the fridge (if using fresh juice), or up to 2 weeks if using bottled citrus juice.

Enjoy the simple Ponzu Recipe and let us know how you like it in the comments below!

xoxo

Sylvia

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