The best light soy sauce substitutes
Soy sauce is an essential ingredient in many Asian dishes, especially in Chinese-style cooking and certain Japanese recipes. However, you may find yourself without light soy sauce in the middle of preparing a meal. In such cases, it’s helpful to know the best substitutes for light soy sauce. Here are some viable options:
Tamari
Tamari is considered one of the closest alternatives to soy sauce. Like soy sauce, tamari is made by fermenting soybeans. However, tamari does not contain wheat, making it a suitable substitute for those who need to avoid gluten. Tamari has a stronger flavor than soy sauce due to its higher concentration of soybeans. It works best as a substitute for dipping sauces.
Miso
Miso paste is another excellent substitute for soy sauce, especially in Japanese recipes. Miso paste is the solid residue left after soy sauce is made. It has a similar flavor profile to soy sauce, but with earthier and spicier notes and slightly less saltiness. Different types of miso paste offer variations in flavor, with some being more bitter, sweet, or salty. To use miso as a substitute for light soy sauce, combine 1 teaspoon of miso paste with 2 teaspoons of water for every 1 tablespoon of soy sauce.
Coconut Aminos
Coconut Aminos is a savory sauce made from coconut juice. It is an ideal choice for those who need to avoid soy, as it is completely soy-free. While Coconut Aminos does not taste exactly like soy sauce, it has a slightly nuttier and sweeter flavor profile. If you are trying to reduce your sodium intake, coconut aminos can be a good option as it is less salty than soy sauce. You may need to add a little extra salt to your recipe to balance out the sweetness. Another benefit of coconut aminos is that it is gluten-free.
Liquid Aminos
Liquid Aminos is another gluten-free alternative to light soy sauce. It is made from soy, but differs from soy sauce in taste. Liquid Aminos has a similar umami flavor to soy sauce, although it is less intense and slightly sweeter. You can use the same amount of liquid amino as called for in the recipe, but you may want to add a touch of salt to achieve the same depth of flavor as soy sauce.
Worcestershire Sauce
Worcestershire sauce is different from soy sauce, but shares some similarities in appearance and tangy flavor. Originating in the United Kingdom, Worcestershire sauce is fermented and provides a savory umami quality similar to soy sauce without the use of soy or gluten. It is made by fermenting anchovies with malt vinegar and a blend of sweet and savory spices. Worcestershire sauce has a distinct fishy note accompanied by a tangy, sweet and mildly spicy flavor. When using Worcestershire sauce as a substitute for soy sauce, start with ¼ the amount called for in the recipe and add more to taste.
Hoisin Sauce
Hoisin sauce, popular in Chinese cuisine, is thicker and bolder in flavor than soy sauce. It works well as a substitute for teriyaki sauce and can be used in many recipes that call for light soy sauce. Hoisin sauce has a sweet and tangy flavor, complemented by the characteristic saltiness of soy sauce. It contains soy sauce as one of its main ingredients, along with other flavorings. For best results, use hoisin sauce in thicker sauce recipes such as stir-fries or dipping sauces. To balance the sweetness, you can add a little rice wine vinegar or pair it with sweet and tangy ingredients like pineapple.
Teriyaki
Teriyaki sauce is another condiment commonly found in the refrigerator that can serve as a substitute for light soy sauce. While teriyaki sauce has its own distinct flavor, it shares some similarities with soy sauce in terms of umami and saltiness. When using teriyaki sauce as a substitute, it is recommended that it be used in a 1:1 ratio, although depending on the recipe, it may need to be diluted or tempered with rice wine vinegar.
Oyster Sauce
Oyster sauce offers a smoky and slightly sweet umami flavor, making it a viable substitute for light soy sauce. It can be used in a 1:1 ratio in most recipes that call for light soy sauce. However, you may need to thin the oyster sauce or adjust the seasoning to achieve the desired flavor.
Conclusion
While there is no perfect substitute for light soy sauce, these alternatives can take your recipes to new and interesting levels if you’re willing to get creative. Each substitute has its own unique flavor profile and characteristics, so it’s worth experimenting to find the one that works best for your dish. Whether you’re looking to avoid soy or gluten, reduce sodium, or simply don’t have soy sauce on hand, these light soy sauce substitutes are viable options for enhancing the flavors of your Asian-inspired dishes.
FAQS
What are the best substitutes for light soy sauce?
The best substitutes for light soy sauce include tamari, miso, coconut aminos, liquid aminos, worcestershire sauce, hoisin sauce, teriyaki sauce, and oyster sauce.
Can tamari be used as a substitute for light soy sauce?
Yes, tamari is an excellent substitute for light soy sauce. It has a similar flavor profile and works well in recipes that call for light soy sauce.
Is miso a good substitute for light soy sauce?
Yes, miso can be used as a substitute for light soy sauce, especially in Japanese dishes. It has a unique flavor that adds depth to recipes.
Is coconut aminos a good alternative to light soy sauce?
Yes, coconut aminos can be a suitable alternative to light soy sauce, especially for those who need to avoid soy or gluten. Coconut aminos have a slightly nuttier and sweeter taste.
How can Worcestershire sauce be used as a substitute for light soy sauce?
Worcestershire sauce can be used as a substitute for light soy sauce by using ¼ of the amount called for in the recipe and adjusting to taste. It provides a tangy and savory flavor similar to soy sauce.
Can hoisin sauce substitute for light soy sauce?
Yes, hoisin sauce can be used as a substitute for light soy sauce, especially in stir-fry and dipping sauces. Hoisin sauce has a sweet and tangy flavor that complements a variety of dishes.