Bonsai Burgers

It starts with the sauce.

Classic Teriyaki Sauce (Restaurant-Style)

Ingredients

• ½ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup mirin (or substitute below)
• ¼ cup sake (or water/stock)
• 2–3 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

Instructions

1. Add everything to a small saucepan.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
3. Stir until sugar dissolves.
4. Let it simmer 5–8 minutes until slightly reduced.
5. For a thicker glaze: mix 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water, stir in, and simmer another minute.

Dial it in like a pro:

1. The Patty

• Salt & pepper right before cooking (not too early)
• Cook hot → get that crust
• Brush with your teriyaki sauce in the last minute so it caramelizes

2. The Pineapple (this is clutch)

• Grill or pan-sear until caramelized
• Light brush of teriyaki while cooking = 🔥
• You want edges slightly charred, not just warm

3. The Cheese Move

• Cheddar works great, but melt it after glazing the burger
  → gives you that sticky, glossy, lava situation

4. The Bun (don’t skip this)

• Toast your brioche in butter
• Light swipe of teriyaki on the bottom bun for flavor layering or
• Add a thin smear of mayo + a touch of teriyaki + lime juice