Bulgogi sauce substitutes
Bulgogi sauce substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Teriyaki sauce
Same amount as the bulgogi sauce
Similar sauce with different flavor.
The best substitutes for bulgogi sauce are teriyaki sauce, hoisin sauce, or a homemade blend, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- marinades
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of bulgogi sauce | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Teriyaki saucemarinades | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Hoisin saucemarinades | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Homemade bulgogi saucemarinades | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Soy sauce + sugar + garlicmarinades | Same amountPlus 1 tbsp sugar + 1 clove garlic per cupWorks | Works |
| 5 | Korean BBQ saucemarinades | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 6 | Oyster sauce + sugarmarinades | Same amountPlus 1 tbsp sugar per cupTweak it | Tweak it |
Teriyaki sauce
different taste, similar texture
Similar sauce with different flavor.
- Best for
- marinades, glazes, stir-fries, grilling
Different flavor, similar sweetness.
Hoisin sauce
different taste, similar texture
Similar sauce with different flavor.
- Best for
- marinades, glazes, stir-fries, grilling
Different flavor, similar sweetness.
Homemade bulgogi sauce
similar taste and texture
Same sauce with different preparation.
- Best for
- marinades, glazes, stir-fries, grilling
Different preparation, same flavor.
Soy sauce + sugar + garlic
similar taste and texture
Similar combination with different preparation.
- Best for
- marinades, glazes, stir-fries, grilling
Different preparation, similar flavor.
Korean BBQ sauce
similar taste and texture
Similar sauce with different composition.
- Best for
- marinades, glazes, stir-fries, grilling
Different composition, similar flavor.
Oyster sauce + sugar
different taste, similar texture
Similar combination with different preparation.
- Best for
- marinades, glazes, stir-fries, grilling
Different preparation, similar flavor.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use teriyaki sauce instead of bulgogi sauce?
Yes, teriyaki sauce is a good substitute for bulgogi sauce. It has a different flavor but similar sweetness and can be used in most recipes.
What's the difference between bulgogi sauce and teriyaki sauce?
Bulgogi sauce is Korean with a specific flavor profile, while teriyaki sauce is Japanese with a different flavor profile. Both are sweet and savory but have different taste profiles.
Can I use hoisin sauce instead of bulgogi sauce?
Yes, hoisin sauce can work as a substitute, though it has a different flavor. It provides similar sweetness and can be used in most recipes.
Why is bulgogi sauce so popular in Korean cooking?
Bulgogi sauce is popular because it adds sweet, savory flavor and is a key ingredient in traditional Korean bulgogi dishes.
Tips for substituting bulgogi sauce
6 tips- Bulgogi sauce adds sweet, savory flavor to dishes
- Bulgogi sauce can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Bulgogi sauce pairs well with beef, pork, and chicken
- Bulgogi sauce works well in Korean and Asian cuisines
- Bulgogi sauce can be used to make marinades and glazes
- Store bulgogi sauce in the refrigerator