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Savory Solutions: 7 Alternatives to Soy Sauce

Are you tired of relying on soy sauce for that savory flavor in your cooking? Whether you’re avoiding gluten, watching your sodium intake, or simply looking for a change of pace, we’ve got you covered. Discover seven alternatives that deliver the same depth of flavor without the drawbacks.

What’s the Deal with Soy Sauce?

Soy sauce, also known as shoju, is a fermented liquid made from soybeans and wheat. This condiment has been a staple in East Asian and Southeast Asian cuisines for thousands of years, adding a rich, umami flavor to dishes. However, it can pose problems for those with soy or wheat sensitivities, and its high sodium content can be a concern for those watching their salt intake.

7 Stellar Soy Sauce Substitutes

1. Tamari: The Gluten-Free Option
   Tamari, also called shoyu, is a fermented Japanese soy product made without wheat, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance. With a similar flavor profile to soy sauce, tamari is a straightforward swap.

2. Coconut Aminos: The Soy-Free Alternative
   Coconut aminos is a dark brown, slightly sweet and salty sauce made from fermented coconut plant sap. This condiment is a great option for those with multiple food sensitivities, being soy-free, wheat-free, gluten-free, vegan, and lower in sodium than soy sauce.

3. Fish Sauce: The Umami Powerhouse
   Fish sauce, made from fermented fish and salt, offers a strong umami flavor similar to soy sauce. While not suitable for vegetarians or vegans, fish sauce is a great option for those who enjoy a fishy flavor and don’t mind a higher sodium content.

4. Worcestershire Sauce: The Tangy Alternative
   Worcestershire sauce, originating from England, has a distinct flavor profile that’s a little less umami and a little more tangy. Made from a fermented blend of ingredients like sugar, anchovies, salt, spices, and vinegar, this sauce is a great option for those who want to add depth to their dishes without the soy sauce flavor.

5. Liquid Aminos: The Vegan Option
   Liquid aminos is a dark, salty sauce made from unfermented soybeans, making it vegan, gluten-free, and alcohol-free. While not soy-free, liquid aminos offers a milder, sweeter taste than soy sauce.

6. Miso: The Fermented Paste
   Miso, a fermented paste made from soybeans, grain, koji, and salt, offers a milder flavor than soy sauce. While not always gluten-free, miso can be a solid soy sauce substitute that also adds protein to recipes.

7. Oyster Sauce: The Sweet and Salty Alternative
   Oyster sauce, made from caramelized oyster extract, sugar, and salt, adds a complex flavor to dishes with less sodium than soy sauce. While not suitable for vegetarians or vegans, oyster sauce is a great option for those who want to add depth to their cooking.

Create Your Own Soy Sauce Substitute

Want to whip up your own soy sauce swap? We’ve got a recipe that combines beef broth, dried shiitake mushrooms, apple cider vinegar, dark molasses, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful alternative.

The Bottom Line

Soy sauce is a common ingredient in many Asian and Southeast Asian dishes, but it’s not the only option. With these seven alternatives, you can add depth and complexity to your cooking without compromising on flavor or dietary restrictions.