Eel Sauce Sauce

Eel Sauce: A Savory Condiment Found in Japanese Restaurants in the USA

Eel sauce, also known as unagi sauce, is a thick, sweet, and savory sauce commonly used in Japanese cuisine. It is typically served as a glaze or dipping sauce for grilled or broiled eel (unagi) dishes.

Ingredients and Preparation:

Eel sauce is made with a base of soy sauce, mirin (sweet rice wine), and sugar. Other common ingredients include sake (Japanese rice wine), dashi (Japanese broth), and cornstarch or potato starch for thickening. The sauce is simmered until it reaches a thick, syrupy consistency.

Flavor Profile:

Eel sauce has a complex flavor profile that balances sweetness, saltiness, and umami. The soy sauce provides a salty base, while the mirin and sugar add sweetness. The sake and dashi add depth and complexity to the flavor.

Uses in Japanese Cuisine:

In Japanese restaurants in the USA, eel sauce is primarily used as a condiment for eel dishes. It is commonly served with grilled or broiled eel (unagi no kabayaki), which is often served over rice. Eel sauce can also be used as a dipping sauce for tempura or other fried dishes.

Availability in the USA:

Eel sauce is readily available in Japanese restaurants and Asian grocery stores in the USA. It is typically sold in bottles or jars. Some brands of eel sauce may contain gluten, so individuals with gluten sensitivities should check the ingredient list carefully.

Conclusion:

Eel sauce is a versatile and flavorful condiment that adds a touch of sweetness and umami to Japanese dishes. It is commonly used as a glaze or dipping sauce for eel, but can also be used with other fried or grilled dishes. Eel sauce is widely available in Japanese restaurants and Asian grocery stores in the USA.