Eel sauce, a staple of Japanese cuisine, is a thick, sweet, and savory condiment often used to enhance sushi dishes, particularly unagi (grilled eel). Despite its name, this sauce contains no eel; it is typically made from a blend of soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and sometimes sake, creating a rich flavor profile that can complement a variety of foods.
This versatile sauce is not limited to sushi alone. It's perfect as a glaze for grilled meats, a drizzle over rice bowls, or a flavor boost in stir-fries. Its complex taste brings a touch of umami and sweetness, rounding out any dish with a luscious finish.