Combine the sauce ingredients

• In a saucepan, combine the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger and maple syrup.

Dissolve the sugar

• Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar has completely dissolved.

Simmer the sauce

• Once the mixture starts simmering, reduce the heat to low.
• Simmer, stirring occasionally, so the flavours meld and the sauce thickens slightly.

Make the cornstarch slurry

• While the sauce simmers, mix the water and cornstarch until smooth.

Thicken the sauce

• Gradually pour the slurry into the sauce, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
• Keep cooking until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Cool and serve

• Remove from the heat and let cool slightly before using.
• If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds, sliced green onions and chopped chilies.