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Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of miso paste?

Tahini + soy sauce, Soy sauce (use less) and Vegetable bouillon paste 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

Tahini + soy sauce. Use the same amount. 1 tbsp tahini + 1 tsp soy per tbsp miso gives body plus umami.

Adjust: Whisk until smooth.

  1. Tahini + soy sauce

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    1 tbsp tahini + 1 tsp soy per tbsp miso gives body plus umami.

    Flavor
    Nutty instead of fermented.
    Texture
    Similarly thick paste.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Whisk until smooth.
    Best for
    Dressings, Glazes, Noodles

    vegan

  2. Soy sauce (use less)

    Small adjustment

    Use ½ of the amount (ratio 1:2)

    Same salty umami but no body — per 1 tbsp miso use 1.5-2 tsp soy sauce loosened in a little warm water.

    Flavor
    Saltier, less rounded.
    Texture
    Thinner; dissolves fully.
    Moisture
    Reduce other liquid slightly.
    Adjust
    Add at the end; it salties fast.
    Best for
    Soups, Dressings, Marinades

    gluten free (tamari)

  3. Vegetable bouillon paste

    Changes flavor or texture

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Salt plus light umami; works in soups and light sauces.

    Flavor
    Milder, no fermented tang.
    Texture
    Same paste form.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Watch salt — bouillon is salty.
    Best for
    Soups, Vegetable dishes

    vegetarian

  4. Fish sauce (use less)

    Changes flavor or texture

    Use ⅓ of the amount (ratio 1:3)

    Strong and salty — start with 1 tsp per tbsp miso and build.

    Flavor
    Deep umami, oceanic.
    Texture
    Liquid.
    Moisture
    Reduce other liquid.
    Adjust
    Balance with a pinch of sugar.
    Best for
    Broths, Braised dishes

    gluten free · not vegetarian

Common questions

What is the best substitute for miso paste?

Tahini + soy sauce is the closest swap. Use the same amount. 1 tbsp tahini + 1 tsp soy per tbsp miso gives body plus umami.

What is a vegan substitute for miso paste?

Good vegan options are Tahini + soy sauce.

What is a gluten-free substitute for miso paste?

Good gluten-free options are Fish sauce (use less).

How much should I use instead of miso paste?

It depends on the swap. Tahini + soy sauce: Use the same amount. Soy sauce (use less): Use ½ of the amount. Vegetable bouillon paste: Use the same amount.

Recipes that use miso paste

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