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Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of soy sauce?

Tamari, Liquid aminos (Bragg's) and Coconut aminos are the easiest swaps. Below: 6 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

The quick answer

Tamari. Use the same amount. Japanese GF soy sauce. Same umami.

Adjust: Direct swap. Look for GF labeled.

  1. Tamari

    Drop-in swap

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Japanese GF soy sauce. Same umami.

    Flavor
    Richer, less salty.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Direct swap. Look for GF labeled.
    Best for
    Any recipe

    gluten free

  2. Liquid aminos (Bragg's)

    Drop-in swap

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Soy-based but unfermented.

    Flavor
    Milder than soy sauce.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Direct swap.
    Best for
    Any recipe

    gluten free (if soy free)

  3. Coconut aminos

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Sweeter, less salty. Soy-free alternative.

    Flavor
    Sweet, mild umami.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Add pinch of salt if recipe needs salinity.
    Best for
    Any recipe

    soy free · gluten free

  4. Worcestershire sauce

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Different flavor but similar umami.

    Flavor
    Tangy, complex.
    Texture
    Same liquid.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Not ideal for Asian dishes.
    Best for
    Marinades, Cocktails, Sauces

  5. Miso paste + water

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Mix 1 tsp miso + 1 tbsp water per tbsp soy.

    Flavor
    Rich fermented.
    Texture
    Dissolve well.
    Moisture
    Added water.
    Adjust
    Whisk until dissolved.
    Best for
    Asian soups, Stir-fries

    vegan

  6. Fish sauce (use less)

    Changes flavor or texture

    Use ½ of the amount (ratio 1:2)

    Stronger, fishy. Reduce amount.

    Flavor
    Pungent fish.
    Texture
    Same liquid.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Use half. Different flavor but umami depth.
    Best for
    Asian cooking, Curries

Common questions

What is the best substitute for soy sauce?

Tamari is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Japanese GF soy sauce. Same umami.

What is a vegan substitute for soy sauce?

Good vegan options are Miso paste + water.

What is a gluten-free substitute for soy sauce?

Good gluten-free options are Tamari and Coconut aminos.

How much should I use instead of soy sauce?

It depends on the swap. Tamari: Use the same amount. Liquid aminos (Bragg's): Use the same amount. Coconut aminos: Use the same amount.

Recipes that use soy sauce

Scale it to your recipe

Enter the amount you need and the substitution tool works out the exact quantity. Or ask the chef how the swap will change your dish.

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