20 Perfect Alternatives For Soy Sauce To Enhance Your Taste

Are you looking for a healthier option for your favorite Asian dishes? If yes, then you should definitely check out these Soy Sauce Substitutes that will change your life forever.

Soy sauce has become a staple ingredient in Asian cuisine. In fact, it is often considered to be the fifth essential food group.

The problem is that it contains high sodium, sugar, and fat levels.

Soy sauce substitutes are now widely available in supermarkets and health stores. They contain less salt, sugar, and calories than their original counterparts.

You might even be surprised what you can create with items you already have in your kitchen.

A few simple substitutions can turn your favorite recipes into meals that fit any budget.

These recipes are perfect for making dinner while you are running low on certain ingredients.

Making your own sauces, salad dressing, and dips is an easier step to healthier eating by cutting out the preservatives and additives in store-bought versions.

Our favorite go-to sauce is Homemade BBQ Sauce. You can also try making your own Ketchup, Dipping Sauces, Salad Dressings, and more!

Quick Answer: Alternatives For Soy Sauce

Substitutes	Calories (Per 100 Grams)
Hoisin Sauce	220
Teriyaki Sauce	84
Vegan Mushroom Sauce	127
Coconut Aminos	3.9
Worcestershire Sauce	19
Umeboshi Vinegar	0
Fish Sauce	35
Tamari	11
Miso	199
Salt	0
Dried Shiitake Mushroom	44
Maggi Seasoning	1990
Shrimp Paste	35
Liquid Aminos	0
Oyster Sauce	51
Anchovies	210
Nutritional Yeast	295
Mermite	271
Dashi	438

What Is Soy Sauce?

Soy sauce is an ingredient that is often found in Asian cuisine. It is made from fermented soybeans and contains salt and sugar.

Many people enjoy its flavor and aroma. However, there can be side effects when using soy sauce.

Some people experience allergic reactions to soy products, while others cannot tolerate wheat.

If you have any of these allergies, you should avoid soy sauce. Luckily, there are alternatives that are safe for those who have dietary restrictions.

You can create your own homemade version of soy sauce at home.

This recipe will teach you how to make a healthy soy sauce alternative that is free of wheat, dairy, and other allergens.

How To Use The 411 Soy Sauce

Soy sauce is an ingredient that we use every day. It comes from Japan and is very popular in Chinese cuisine.

It is also commonly used in American cuisine. It is usually added to foods like meat, vegetables, and rice.

It is also used to season sauces and marinades. Perhaps some ideas below can inspire you to use this sauce!

A shrimp & broccoli stir-fry is a great way to use 411 soy sauce. This stir-fry will knock your family’s socks off! Plus, it’s so inexpensive and easy to make!

• Honey Sesame Chicken – honey sesame chicken recipes call for coconut aminos, but you could easily sub soy sauce instead.
• Rice Bowls – Make an Asian-inspired rice bowl!
• Chicken Marinade – Soy sauce is the perfect addition to a delicious chicken marinade.
• Hawaiian Chicken And Rice – Hawaiian chicken and rice recipes include a soy sauce modification that’s so good! These recipes are sure to please that soy sauce craving and have the whole family asking for more!

Soy Sauce Substitutes That Are Clever

Soy sauce is an essential ingredient in many dishes across Asia. But if you’re avoiding soy, then you’ll need something else to replace it.

Coconut amino sauce is a great alternative because it’s low-sodium, soy-free, gluten-free, and just plain delicious.

If you want to go all out, try liquid aminos, which are made from soybeans and have a sweet, savory flavor.

This sauce originated in Japan and is very similar to soy sauce. It’s usually gluten-free, like tamari, but you should always check the label to be sure.

Tamari is a great choice if you’re trying to cut back on your salt intake.

Worcestershire is also a suitable replacement for soy sauce, especially if you’re watching your sodium intake.

It has an entirely different flavor profile, though, and you’ll need to adjust accordingly.

Fish sauce is a bit stronger than soy sauce, so start out with small amounts and add more as desired.

Soy sauce is an essential ingredient for many dishes. But if you’re looking for something different, try using a vegan alternative. You’ll still get all the flavor, just no meat!

How To Make Your Own Soy Sauce

Soy sauce is an essential ingredient in many Asian dishes. But if you’re looking for something healthier, here’s a great alternative!

We’ve made a simple and delicious soy sauce substitute that’s perfect for any dish! You’ll love it, and you won’t miss the salt at all.

The Best Homemade Soy Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:
1 cup beef broth. 3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar. 1 tsp molasses. ¾ tsp ground ginger. 1/8 tsp black pepper. 1/8 tsp garlic powder. 1 cup water.
Method:
Add all ingredients into a blender and blend them together.

Then pour them all into a pot and simmer on low heat, while occasionally stirring, until thickened.

Pour into a bowl and refrigerate for at least an hour. Once chilled, pour into a glass jar and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Shake well before serving.

1. Hoisin Sauce

Hoisin sauce is a spicy Asian dipping sauce that has a thick consistency. It has a hint of sweetness and an intense savory taste.

Hoisin sauce is often served alongside steamed rice or noodles and is commonly used in stir-fries.

It can also be used as a glaze for meats and vegetables. It is sometimes referred to as “Chinese BBQ Sauce”.

How To Substitute

Hoisin sauce is a Chinese condiment made from soybeans and wheat gluten. It’s often used in Asian dishes like fried rice, meatballs, and egg rolls. Hoisin sauce is traditionally served with steamed dumplings called xiao long bao. You should also try it in your next stir-fry.

2. Teryaki Sauce

Teriyaki sauce is a sweet Japanese sauce commonly served as an accompaniment to grilled meat and seafood.

It’s often made with brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sake or mirin.

How To Substitute

Teriyaki sauce is very versatile, and you can add other ingredients if you like. For example, you could add sesame oil, ginger, garlic, or even hot pepper flakes. If you’re looking for a quick meal, teriyaki sauce is a great choice. Just mix it with your favorite vegetables and meats before grilling.

3. Vegan Mushroom Sauce

A great alternative to using seafood in your cooking is to use mushrooms instead.

You can even make your own mushroom-based oyster sauce!

How To Substitute

Simply sauté your mushrooms until tender, then add any other ingredients you like. For example, you could use soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, scallions, and green onions. Use whatever vegetables you prefer.

RELATED: 6 Of The Best Substitutes For Tomato Sauce

4. Coconut Aminos

If you are swapping out the soy sauce for coconut aminos, this is a pretty close visual match.

There is a darker color to the liquid, and it has a stronger molasses flavor.

This is what makes it great for a variety of dishes because that sweetness to it, really compliments savory dishes. 

How To Substitute

You may want to adjust the amount of salt in the dish depending on if you are using soy sauce or not. If you are going soy-free, coconut aminos are a great replacement.

5. Worcestershire Sauce

Worcestershire sauce is an English condiment made from malt vinegar, onions, anchovies, salt, cloves, mace, and other spices.

It has a sweet flavor, similar to balsamic vinegar, and is often served with beef dishes.

Worcestershire sauce is traditionally sold in bottles, but today many brands are packaged in cans. Worcestershire is also used as a marinade ingredient.

How To Substitute

You’ll want to add a good helping of this sauce into your dish as well as something sweet to bring that sweetness to your dish that the soy sauce usually handles for you. It’s great for combinations and, as we said before, marinading, so use it to your advantage.

RELATED: 6 Best Substitutes For Sriracha Sauce

6. Umeboshi Vinegar

Umeboshi Vinegar is made from fermented Ume Plum fruit.

When the fermentation starts, the acidity level rises and causes the plum to become soft.

Once the acidity reaches a certain point, the plum becomes edible.

After the fermentation is complete, the plum is removed from the jar and placed in a large container filled with water.

Salt is added to the water and left overnight. The next morning, the plum is removed from its container and washed thoroughly.

The plum is then dried and pressed before being stored in a dark place.

How To Substitute

We love the idea of using this sauce idea because that vinaigrette state that the fruit has gone through, will really sweeten up any dish you want to try and use it for. The main stage is letting it go through the fermentation process to do all the hard work for you.

7. Fish Sauce

Fish sauce isn’t a perfect replacement for oyster sauce, but it does have similar properties.

It’s thicker than oyster sauce, so it works well in soups and stews.

How To Substitute

Its salty flavor goes well with many foods, especially vegetables. You can also use it in sauces, marinades, dressings, dips, and even desserts.

8. Tamari

Tamari is a soy sauce substitute made from soybeans, wheat, salt, and water. It is also a brand of this sauce.

Tamari is a soy sauce that is thicker and sweeter than the standard soy sauce, and is traditionally made in Japan. It has a more complex flavor profile that ranges from savory to slightly sweet.

It has a slightly sweet flavor that is quite versatile and can be used in many different dishes.

It’s the perfect complement to stir-fries, Asian-style dishes, and marinades. It is a great way to add flavor to any dish without adding sugars or calories. 

How To Substitute

Soy sauce is a great substitute for tamari because soy sauce is less salty than tamari, but has a more complex flavor. To use soy sauce as a substitute for tamari, use 1 tablespoon soy sauce for every tablespoon of tamari.

9. Miso

Miso is a traditional Japanese seasoning that is made by fermenting soybeans with a mold called koji. Miso is often used in soups, sauces, dips, and stir-fries.

This seasoning has a salty and slightly sweet flavor with a thick consistency. It is used in many dishes as a condiment and a cooking ingredient.

Miso is a condiment that is a mixture of soybeans, salt, and rice or wheat. It has a thick, slightly sticky consistency and a mild, slightly salty taste. It is often served with rice, but can also be used as a dipping sauce for sushi.

How To Substitute

Soy sauce is made from soybeans, salt, and water. It is a staple in Asian cuisine, but it contains high levels of soy protein, which is a common allergen. Miso is made from fermented soybeans and barley, and it is often gluten-free. Miso can be substituted in many recipes that call for soy sauce.

10. Salt

Salt is one of the most essential items in our kitchens. The spice of life, it enhances the flavor of dishes, and makes life bearable. Salt also plays a major role in our health.

Salt has a variety of uses. It is commonly used as a seasoning for food and as an additive to de-icing solutions.

The most basic of all substances, salt has been used since ancient times as a preservative, a flavoring agent, and as a method of dehydrating food. 

Salt is one of the few substances that is both a solid and a liquid.

How To Substitute

For a dish that calls for soy sauce, substitute salt. Soy sauce is a product that has salt added to it to make it taste more savory, and the substitution will allow you to control the amount of salt in your dish.

11. Dried Shiitake Mushrooms

These dried shiitake mushrooms are a low-sodium, low-fat, vegan-friendly, gluten-free, preservative-free product that is perfect for all kinds of dishes. 

The mushrooms are organic and harvested in the wild by experienced mushroom hunters. They have a light and clean taste and can be used to make soups, stir-fries, and more.

The mushroom is a popular ingredient in many dishes, including soups, salads, and sauces. They are also used in Asian-inspired recipes.

They have a distinctive brown, cracked and uneven surface, and a stem that is white and off-center.

How To Substitute

It is possible to substitute soy sauce with Dried Shiitake Mushrooms, but this substitution is not necessarily for the better. Dried Shiitake Mushrooms are more expensive than soy sauce and have a stronger, more pronounced flavor.

12. Maggi Seasoning

Maggi Seasoning is a mixture of herbs and spices that is great to add flavor to dishes and recipes. This seasoning can be used to flavor meat, vegetables, soups, rice, or any other dish that you are cooking.

Maggi Seasoning is a classic, delicious blend of garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, black pepper, cardamom, and mustard. 

This product can be used in a variety of ways. It is best known as a seasoning to add to soups, sauces, or any other dishes that need a little extra flavor.

 The blend of herbs and spices make this seasoning a perfect seasoning for soups, sauces, gravies, and many other savory dishes. 

Maggi Seasoning can also be used as a rub for meats, poultry, and fish.

How To Substitute

Soy sauce is made from fermented soybeans and wheat, which have been boiled, fermented, and filtered. Soy sauce is usually salty and contains a mixture of salt and soybean oil, while Maggi seasoning is typically savory and has no oil. Substituting soy sauce with Maggi seasoning is not a difficult process.

13. Shrimp Paste 

A delectable, ready-to-eat spread, this rich, sweet shrimp paste is made from the first cooking of raw, fresh shrimp with aromatic spices, garlic, and onion.

A typical paste of shrimp and spices, used as a flavoring agent. Shrimp paste is a paste made from shrimp and spices. It is used as a flavoring agent in Southeast Asian cuisine.

This is a very popular type of paste made from shrimp. It is used in many different types of cuisine. It is used in sauces and soups to add flavor and a thick consistency.

Shrimp paste is the sauce that shrimp is often cooked in. It is used to add flavor and color to a dish.

How To Substitute

A recipe for a dish that requires soy sauce is made using shrimp paste instead. Shrimp paste is a mixture of fermented shrimp, salt, and water. The mixture is stored in a jar, where it is allowed to ferment for about a month.

14. Worcestershire sauce

Worcestershire sauce is a thick, rich sauce made from vinegar, anchovies, and a variety of spices, such as bay leaves, cloves, cinnamon, mustard seeds, and nutmeg. 

It is traditionally used as a condiment for meat and vegetables, but can be used on just about anything.

Worcestershire sauce is a sauce that is typically made with soy sauce, garlic, anchovies, onions, sugar, vinegar, and spices.

The sauce is traditionally served on steak and is a must for classic beef and ale pie.

It is traditionally made with anchovies, tamarind, molasses, salt, cloves, and other spices. Worcestershire sauce is traditionally used in a variety of dishes such as steaks, seafood, vegetables, and soups.

How To Substitute

You can use Worcestershire sauce instead of soy sauce for a more complex flavor in many different recipes. The ingredients of Worcestershire sauce are malt vinegar, molasses, anchovies, tamarind, and spices.

15. Liquid Aminos

Liquid Aminos are an organic, vegan-friendly soy sauce substitute. Made with organic brown rice, organic coconut palm sugar, and sea salt. 

Aminos provide a good source of protein for vegetarians and vegans.

Liquid aminos are made from soybeans, water, and salt, and contain all the essential amino acids. They can be used in salads, sauces, and dressings, or in cooking as a condiment.

Liquid aminos are an amazing, versatile, and healthy soy sauce substitute. Liquid aminos can be used to make stir-fry sauces, Asian-style dressings, dips, soups, and more.

Made with soybeans and sea salt, liquid aminos are a great way to get the benefits of soy sauce without the added sodium.

How To Substitute

Liquid Aminos is a soy sauce substitute that is gluten-free, soy-free, and vegan. It is a seasoning blend that is made from fermented soybeans and wheat. Liquid Aminos is made from organic ingredients and contains a full range of essential amino acids and essential minerals.

16. Oyster Sauce

Oyster sauce is a sauce made from oysters, water, salt, sugar, and spices. It is most often used in Asian cuisine, especially in the Chinese dish Oyster Sauce Chicken. 

It is a popular condiment for many types of dishes.

Oyster sauce is a condiment made from oysters and water, salt, sugar, and sometimes fish sauce. It is traditionally used as a seasoning in Chinese cuisine. 

It is often found in combination with soy sauce and is usually paired with vegetables, seafood, and other dishes.

This soy sauce flavored sauce is made from the oyster extract of a mollusk. It is dark brown in color and has a slightly salty, rich, and slightly sweet taste.

How To Substitute:

How To Substitute

Oyster sauce is a dark brown sauce made with oysters and soy sauce, typically found in Asian dishes. To make your own Oyster sauce, simply mix oyster sauce and soy sauce.

17. Anchovies

Anchovies are an Italian and Spanish dish of small, salty fish. They are preserved in salt and sometimes in oil. Anchovies are usually sold packed in jars or cans and can be found at most grocery stores.

Anchovies are a small, oily fish that is typically eaten raw, fried, or in sauces. They are often used in salads and sauces to add a salty, savory taste.

Anchovies are a type of fish with a distinct flavor. Anchovies are often used in salads and in a variety of Italian dishes. 

Anchovies are a type of fish that are usually cured in salt, and eaten with bread. They are very common in Mediterranean dishes, and can be found in many different varieties.

How To Substitute

Soy sauce is a staple in many Asian dishes, but it is also high in salt. If you are looking for a healthier alternative, try substituting soy sauce with anchovies. You can use a soy sauce substitute to make sauces, marinades, and dressings, and you can use anchovies in pasta, pizza, and risotto.

18. Nutritional Yeast

Nutritional Yeast is a fermented yeast product that has been used as a supplement for decades. It contains B vitamins, minerals, and protein. 

It is also a good source of fiber and it can be a great source of nutrients for vegetarians.

Nutritional yeast is a complete protein and is a great source of zinc, selenium, and magnesium. 

Nutritional yeast has a nutty, cheesy taste and has a slightly nutty aroma. Nutritional yeast can be added to almost any dish to add a cheesy flavor. 

Nutritional yeast is also known as: brewer’s yeast, bakers yeast, or red yeast rice.

How To Substitute

Soy sauce is often used as a flavoring in dishes. However, soy sauce contains high levels of sodium, which can be problematic for some people. Nutritional yeast is a seasoning that has a savory, nutty, cheesy taste. It also has a good amount of B vitamins and protein. It can be substituted for soy sauce in many dishes, such as in sauces, dressings, and dips.

19. Marmite

Marmite is a salty yeast extract spread that is an acquired taste, but many people love it. It is usually eaten on toast, but it can also be used to flavor soups, casseroles, and more. 

Marmite is a salty yeast extract spread that is an acquired taste, but many people love it. 

It is usually eaten on toast, but it can also be used to flavor soups, casseroles, and more. 

It has a distinctive taste, which can be described as a unique mix of sweetness, tanginess, saltiness, and sourness. 

It is usually eaten spread on bread, toast, or crackers, but it is also used as a spread on meat, fish, vegetables, or cheese.

How To Substitute

Marmite is a savory yeast extract that’s been around for over a century. It’s a popular condiment in England, but you might not be familiar with it.

20. Dashi

Dashi is a type of Japanese soup stock, made from water and dried kelp. The soup is typically served as a condiment or accompanying dish in Japanese cuisine.

It is used as a flavoring agent in miso soup and various soups, or as a dipping sauce for sushi. It is also used in broth-based ramen dishes. 

Dashi is a flavorful, rich, and savory stock that is used in many Japanese dishes. It is the base for miso soup, and is a very common ingredient in Japanese cuisine.

This particular dashi has a light, delicate flavor with just the right amount of saltiness. It is a very light soup, so it can be enjoyed with just a spoon or with chopsticks. 

How To Substitute

Dashi is a flavorful stock made from water, kombu, and dried bonito flakes. Dashi is a great way to add flavor and depth to dishes. Dashi is often used as a base for ramen and other noodle dishes. Soy sauce is a common sauce used in cooking. However, it can be substituted with Dashi to create a dish with a more complex flavor.

21. Tomato Paste

Tomato Paste is a paste made of tomatoes. It can be used as a sauce or as an ingredient in a variety of other dishes. 

It is often used in Italian dishes, as well as many types of Mexican dishes. It can also be used as a binder in meatloaf or meatballs.

Tomato Paste is a mixture of crushed, peeled tomatoes, tomato juice, salt, and spices. 

It is used as a condiment on a wide variety of dishes, such as pasta sauces, pizza, lasagna, and baked goods. It can be found in cans, jars, and squeezable tubes.

How To Substitute

The soy sauce-tomato paste substitute recipe is made with a combination of soy sauce, tomato paste, honey, garlic, and ginger. It’s a healthier option for the sauce that is usually served over the top of meat, fish, and vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

For What Soy Sauce Is Used?

Soy sauce is commonly used in Chinese cuisine as a condiment but can also be found in Japanese, Vietnamese, and Thai dishes. It is a salty condiment made from soybeans and wheat that adds flavor and color to many Asian dishes. 

It is typically thin, salty, and dense, with a dark color and a slightly sweet taste. Soy sauce is used as a flavoring for foods, as a condiment, and as a cooking ingredient. 

What Tastes Good With Soy Sauce?

The most popular foods to pair with soy sauce are rice, noodles, fish, and vegetables. The soy sauce taste is distinct but not overpowering, making it a great addition to many dishes.

What Does Soya Sauce Taste Like?

Soya sauce is a thick sauce made of soybeans, wheat, salt, and water. It has a sweet, slightly salty taste and a smooth texture. 

Does Soy Sauce Have MSG?

Soy sauce has a salty flavor but does not contain monosodium glutamate or monosodium glutamate (MSG).

For What Soy Sauce Is Used?

Oy sauce is used in many different recipes. Soya sauce is a traditional sauce that is a staple in Asian cooking. It is often used as a condiment to flavor vegetables, meat, and tofu dishes.