Teriyaki is one of those flavours most customers already recognise — but few realise just how much history sits behind it.
Originally developed in Japan, teriyaki isn’t just a flavour — it’s a cooking method. The name itself comes from “teri” meaning shine, and “yaki” meaning grill or broil, referring to the glossy glaze created when a sweet soy-based sauce is cooked onto meat or fish.
Traditionally, that glaze is made from a simple combination of soy sauce, sugar and mirin or sake — creating the now well-known balance of sweet and savoury.
From Preservation to Global Favourite
Teriyaki dates back to Japan’s Edo period (1600s), where it was originally used to preserve and flavour fish.
Over time, it evolved — moving from a traditional Japanese technique into a globally recognised flavour. As Japanese cuisine spread internationally, teriyaki adapted to different markets, becoming a staple across everything from street food to fast casual dining.
Today, it’s used across multiple proteins — chicken, beef, pork, and burgers — proving its versatility and broad appeal.
Why Teriyaki Works on the Counter
For butchers, teriyaki ticks a lot of boxes — and that’s why it continues to grow in popularity.
1. Familiar, but Different
Customers recognise the flavour, which reduces the risk of trying something new. At the same time, it still feels more interesting than a standard offering.
2. Sweet & Savoury Balance Sells
That combination of sweetness and umami is proven to appeal to a wide range of customers — including younger shoppers and families.
3. Strong BBQ & Seasonal Appeal
Teriyaki naturally lends itself to burgers, skewers and grill-ready products, making it an easy win for spring and summer displays.
4. Versatility Across Meat Proteins
Teriyaki works across a wide range of proteins, making it a flexible option for your counter. Whether you’re working with pork, beef or chicken, it delivers a consistent, well-balanced flavour that customers recognise and enjoy.
That versatility means you can apply it across multiple lines without adding complexity — helping you get more from the same flavour profile while keeping your offering fresh and varied.
A Modern Classic Worth Having
Teriyaki has stood the test of time because it adapts. From its roots in Japanese cooking to its place in modern food-to-go and retail, it continues to evolve with changing tastes.
For today’s butcher, that makes it a strong addition to the counter — offering something current, recognisable, and commercially reliable.
It’s not about chasing trends — it’s about choosing flavours that consistently sell.
Bringing Teriyaki Straight to Your Counter
For butchers looking to introduce teriyaki without adding complexity, having the right base makes all the difference.
Our Gluten Free Teriyaki Burger Mix has been developed to deliver that classic sweet and savoury profile customers expect, while performing reliably in production. It works seamlessly with your existing process and trim, giving you a consistent finish every time.
Being gluten free also means you can open the product up to a wider customer base, without needing separate lines or additional handling — making it a practical as well as a commercial addition to your range.
It’s an easy way to take a proven flavour and turn it into a strong, repeat-selling product on your counter.
Looking to add a proven seller to your range?
Teriyaki is an easy way to introduce something different without taking a risk. Speak to the team about bringing this flavour into your burgers, sausages or seasonal lines — and see what it can do on your counter.