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Ponzu Sauce

Ponzu sauce is a versatile Japanese condiment that combines the tangy flavors of citrus and umami-rich soy sauce, often used as a dipping sauce or dressing. The base of this sauce typically consists of a blend of soy sauce, citrus juice (such as yuzu, lemon, or lime), rice vinegar, dashi, and sometimes mirin or sake. This balanced concoction enhances a wide array of dishes, such as sashimi, shabu-shabu, and gyoza, by adding an extra dimension of taste and aromatic depth. In the realm of home cooking, ponzu sauce elevates the taste of various dishes, including grilled meats and vegetables, seafood, and salads. The sauce's sweet, savory, tangy, and slightly bitter flavor profile endows each meal with a delightful complexity. Ponzu sauce can be easily found in most supermarkets, or alternatively, one could prepare it from scratch by combining a few simple ingredients.
#54
IN SAUCES
67
CAL / 100G
$0.29
AVG / OZ
ponzu sauce
67%
CARBS
0%
FAT
33%
PROTEIN
Used In 1 Recipe
Ponzu Sauce FAQ
Ponzu sauce, a well-balanced Japanese condiment, offers a combination of different flavors - tangy, sweet, savory, and slightly bitter. The tanginess comes from citrus juice like yuzu, lemon, or lime, while the savory umami flavor is derived from soy sauce. It sometimes contains dashi, mirin or sake, and rice vinegar. Autumn is an efficient time to utilize ponzu sauce because it harmonizes well with the season's dishes. However, cooking with ponzu sauce can sometimes be tricky considering its complex flavor profile. Most common mistakes involve overusing the sauce leading to overpowering the dish, or underutilising it, restraining the dish from reaching its fullest potential. The key is balance. To extract the most out of ponzu, pair it well. It works wonders with grilled foods, salads, and seafood, enhancing their flavors. Additionally, if you're out of ponzu, you can create your own by mixing the main ingredients at home.
Is Ponzu sauce gluten-free?
Can I use Ponzu in marinades?
Why does my dish taste too strong when I use Ponzu?
Can I use Ponzu instead of Soy Sauce?
Why is my homemade Ponzu sauce not as good as the store-bought one?
Can I use Ponzu in my salad dressing?
Is Ponzu sauce spicy?
How to lessen the overpowering tanginess of my Ponzu sauce?
What does Ponzu sauce taste like?
What other dishes can I use Ponzu sauce with?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does ponzu sauce expire?
Once you buy a bottle of ponzu sauce from the store, it usually has a best before date that ranges between 18 to 24 months unopened. However, the high acidity content of ponzu sauce helps it to last beyond this date if stored correctly, often for an additional 6 months at least. Once opened, it's best to consume it within 1 to 2 months if stored in the pantry. If you decided to refrigerate it, that can extend its shelf life up to around 6 months, again due to the vinegar and citrus inhibiting bacterial growth. If you've opted to make your own homemade ponzu sauce, it should be consumed within 1 week when stored in the refrigerator due to the lack of preservatives compared to the commercial version. Freezing is generally not recommended for ponzu sauce because it would disrupt the flavor balance and texture.
How do you tell if ponzu sauce is bad?
Just like with any other food product, sign of spoilage in ponzu sauce can be detected through odour, taste, and appearance. It should always retain that uniquely tangy, citrusy aroma – so if it smells off, stale, or reminds you of mould or yeast, then it's time to bin it. The flavor should also be a balanced combination of citrusy-tart and umami. If it tastes sour or fermented, that’s a clue it’s gone bad. In terms of visual cues, if you see some moldy bits floating inside, or any discoloration, or if the consistency has significantly altered (for example, it has thickened strangely), then it's safer to say goodbye to the sauce.
Tips for storing ponzu sauce to extend shelf life
• Store your ponzu sauce in a cool, dark environment like a pantry or a cupboard to avoid exposure to heat and light which can degrade it faster. • After opening, it's better to store your ponzu sauce in the refrigerator to extend its shelf life. Remember to always seal it tightly after each use. • If you prefer pouring out your sauce, avoid direct contact between the bottle and the food to prevent contamination. You can also try using a clean spoon each time to avoid introducing bacteria. • For homemade ponzu, store it in a clean, air-tight glass jar in the fridge. Don't make large quantities that won't be consumed within a week.
EXPIRES WITHIN
10 - 15
MONTHS
Equivalents
Health Info
Macros
1g
CARBS
0g
FAT
0g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
Contains these allergens
WHEAT
SOYBEANS
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