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Home - Cooking - Substitutes

Latest Updated: Feb 28, 2026 by Andrew Gray

5 BEST Substitutes for Soy Sauce

The best substitutes for Soy Sauce are Tamari Sauce, Coconut Aminos, Worcestershire Sauce, Braggs Liquid Aminos, and Fish Sauce.

Tamari Sauce

Tamari sauce is a type of soy sauce that is traditionally made without wheat.

Coconut Aminos

Coconut aminos is a sauce made from coconut sap and sea salt.

Soy sauce runs out, and there you stand, staring into the abyss of your pantry. Been there, done that.

We've actually stumbled upon some pretty amazing replacements that keep our dishes singing.

Think about it - you're in the middle of cooking, and boom, the soy sauce is all gone.

You could run to the store, or you could get crafty with what you've got at home.

It's like a secret mission in your own kitchen.

We're here to guide you through it, offering alternatives that pack a punch, keep your meals flavorful, and maybe, just maybe, turn out even better than the original plan. Ready for this culinary covert op?

Table of Contents

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  • 5 Top Soy Sauce Alternatives for Cooking
    • 1 - Tamari Sauce
    • 2 - Coconut Aminos
    • 3 - Worcestershire Sauce
    • 4 - Braggs Liquid Aminos
    • 5 - Fish Sauce
  • Frequently Asked Questions

5 Top Soy Sauce Alternatives for Cooking

You have a few options if you're looking for a soy sauce alternative.

Here are the five best substitutes for soy sauce, according to experts.

1 - Tamari Sauce

tamari sauce Save for Later!

Tamari sauce is a type of soy sauce that is traditionally made without wheat.

As a result, it has a slightly deeper and more complex flavor than regular soy sauce.

Tamari sauce is also less salty than soy sauce, making it a good choice for those who are watching their sodium intake.

In addition, Tamari sauce can be used as a substitute for soy sauce in any recipe.

When substituting Tamari sauce for soy sauce, it is important to remember that the flavors will be slightly different.

However, overall, Tamari sauce is a great way to add depth of flavor to any dish.

2 - Coconut Aminos

coconut aminos Save for Later!

Coconut aminos is a sauce made from coconut sap and sea salt.

It is similar to soy sauce in flavor but without the added soybeans.

The taste is salty with a hint of sweetness and can be used as a marinade, dipping sauce, or stir-fry seasoning.

Because it is made from coconuts, it is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and iron.

In addition, it contains no gluten or soy, making it a great choice for those with allergies or sensitivities.

While it is not identical to soy sauce, coconut aminos can be used as a delicious and healthy replacement in many recipes.

Its unique flavor will surely add an extra bit of zest to any dish.

3 - Worcestershire Sauce

worcestershire sauce Save for Later!

Worcestershire sauce is a fermented condiment that originated in England.

It is made from a blend of vinegar, soy sauce, anchovies, onion, garlic, and spices.

The sauce has a unique flavor that is both sour and savory, with a touch of sweetness.

Worcestershire sauce is commonly used as a substitute for soy sauce.

This is because it has a similar salty flavor but with added depth and complexity.

When substituting Worcestershire sauce for soy sauce, it is important to keep in mind that the former is considerably more concentrated.

As such, it should be used sparingly to avoid overwhelming the dish.

4 - Braggs Liquid Aminos

braggs liquid aminos Save for Later!

Braggs Liquid Aminos is a seasoning sauce made from soybeans and filtered water.

The soybeans are aged and then fermented with Bragg's special blend of spices.

The result is a delicious, all-purpose seasoning that can be used in place of soy sauce.

Braggs Liquid Aminos has a rich, savory flavor that enhances the taste of any dish.

It is perfect for stir-fries, marinades, and soups.

In addition to its great taste, Braggs Liquid Aminos is also a healthy alternative to soy sauce.

It is low in sodium and calories and contains no preservatives or MSG.

For those who are looking for a healthier way to season their food, Braggs Liquid Aminos is a perfect choice.

5 - Fish Sauce

fish sauce Save for Later!

Fish sauce is a common ingredient in Southeast Asian cuisine.

It is made by fermenting fish in salt water for several months.

The resulting liquid is then strained and bottled.

Fish sauce has a strong, salty flavor and is used as a condiment or seasoning.

It is also an important ingredient in many traditional dishes, such as pad thai and pho.

While fish sauce can be used interchangeably with soy sauce, it has a distinct taste that many find more flavorful.

Fish sauce is an ideal substitute for soy sauce for those looking to add a bit of salty, umami flavor to their cooking.

In addition, fish sauce is a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthier option than soy sauce.

You might also want to know how soy sauce compares and what soy sauce tastes like.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for Soy Sauce?

Tamari Sauce Tamari sauce is a type of soy sauce that is traditionally made without wheat. Use it at a 1:1 ratio in any recipe that calls for Soy Sauce.

What works as a replacement in recipes?

Yes. Tamari Sauce and Coconut Aminos work as direct replacements in most recipes.

Use the same quantity and adjust seasoning after tasting.

Does the substitute change cooking time or temperature?

Usually not, but check moisture content. Wetter substitutes may need a slightly higher temperature or longer cook time to evaporate excess liquid and achieve the right texture.

Is the substitute appropriate for all dietary restrictions?

Check labels carefully.

Many substitutes introduce allergens or ingredients that conflict with specific diets - dairy, gluten, soy, or nuts may appear in processed alternatives.

Explore more: This post is part of our Ingredient Substitutes Guide.
Andrew Gray

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Restaurant industry veteran sharing real recipes, honest substitutes, and tips that actually work in a home kitchen.

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