What is the key flavor component in the Teriyaki sauce aside from soy sauce?

The key flavor component in Teriyaki sauce, aside from soy sauce, is ginger. Ginger provides a distinct spiciness and warmth that complements the saltiness of the soy sauce and the sweetness often added through ingredients like sugar or honey. This balance of flavors is essential in creating the characteristic taste of Teriyaki sauce, making it rich and multifaceted.

In addition to ginger, Teriyaki sauce may include other ingredients like garlic or sesame oil, but ginger is particularly notable for its role in the sauce's traditional flavor profile. The dynamic of sweet, salty, and spicy in Teriyaki is largely defined by these key components, with ginger playing a crucial part in achieving that authentic experience.