Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of fish sauce?

Soy sauce + lime juice, Worcestershire sauce and Miso paste + water + lime are the easiest swaps. Below: 4 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

The quick answer

Soy sauce + lime juice. Use the same amount. Different umami but works.

Adjust: Add lime to mimic fish sauce tang.

Soy sauce + lime juice
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Different umami but works.

Flavor
Salty, tangy.

Texture
Same.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Add lime to mimic fish sauce tang.

Best for
Non-Asian Asian-ish, Soups

soy free
Worcestershire sauce
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Fermented tang. Different flavor.

Flavor
Complex fermented.

Texture
Same.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Direct swap for umami base.

Best for
Marinades, Cocktails
Miso paste + water + lime
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Fermented umami. Not fishy.

Flavor
Fermented umami.

Texture
Dissolve first.

Moisture
Added water.

Adjust
Mix 1 tsp miso + 1 tbsp water per tbsp fish sauce.

Best for
Any Asian recipe

vegan
Dried mushroom powder + soy sauce
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Umami approximation.

Flavor
Earthy umami.

Texture
Same.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
1/4 tsp mushroom powder per tbsp soy.

Best for
Any recipe

vegan

Common questions

What is the best substitute for fish sauce?

Soy sauce + lime juice is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Different umami but works.

What is a vegan substitute for fish sauce?

Good vegan options are Miso paste + water + lime and Dried mushroom powder + soy sauce.

How much should I use instead of fish sauce?

It depends on the swap. Soy sauce + lime juice: Use the same amount. Worcestershire sauce: Use the same amount. Miso paste + water + lime: Use the same amount.