Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of Worcestershire sauce?

A1 steak sauce, Soy sauce + tamarind (or lime) and Fish sauce are the easiest swaps. Below: 3 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

Worcestershire sauce on the left, a1 steak sauce on the right

The quick answer

A1 steak sauce. Use the same amount. Similar tang, sweeter.

Adjust: Direct swap.

  1. A1 steak sauce

    Drop-in swap

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Similar tang, sweeter.

    Flavor
    Sweet/tangy.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Direct swap.
    Best for
    Any recipe
  2. Soy sauce + tamarind (or lime)

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Mix 1 tbsp soy + 1/2 tsp tamarind paste.

    Flavor
    Close approximation.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Add pinch of sugar if needed.
    Best for
    Any recipe
  3. Fish sauce

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Fermented but fishy.

    Flavor
    Fish, umami.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Use half if concerned about fishiness.
    Best for
    Any recipe using small amounts

Common questions

What is the best substitute for Worcestershire sauce?

A1 steak sauce is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Similar tang, sweeter.

How much should I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?

It depends on the swap. A1 steak sauce: Use the same amount. Soy sauce + tamarind (or lime): Use the same amount. Fish sauce: Use the same amount.

Recipes that use Worcestershire 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.