What can I use instead of Soy Sauce (1 Tbsp)?

Tamari Sauce (1:1) — 1:1 Direct swap; Coconut Aminos (1:1) — 1:1 Direct ratio; Worcestershire Sauce + Water — 1/2 tbsp Worcestershire + 1/2 tbsp water; Shiitake Mushroom Reduction + Salt — 1 tbsp reduced shiitake broth + pinch of salt

Substitutes Pantry

The Best Soy Sauce Substitutes

Need a soy sauce substitute for a recipe or due to a gluten allergy? Discover how to use Tamari, Coconut Aminos, or Worcestershire sauce.

Starting point · check the use below

1 tbsp soy sauce = 1 tbsp Tamari or Coconut Aminos

Best substitutes

Replace with	Ratio	Best for
Tamari Sauce (1:1)	1:1 Direct swap	sushi, stir-fries, marinades, dipping sauces
Coconut Aminos (1:1)	1:1 Direct ratio	paleo, keto, dressings, glazes
Worcestershire Sauce + Water	1/2 tbsp Worcestershire + 1/2 tbsp water	beef marinades, stews, pan gravies
Shiitake Mushroom Reduction + Salt	1 tbsp reduced shiitake broth + pinch of salt	soups, Asian reductions, noodle dishes

The Role of Soy Sauce

Soy sauce is a liquid condiment made from fermented soybeans, roasted grain, brine, and Aspergillus oryzae molds. It is the ultimate source of umami—that deep, savory, meaty flavor profile. It also provides a significant amount of salt and a dark color to dishes. When substituting soy sauce, you must consider whether you simply ran out, or if you are avoiding it due to a gluten or soy allergy.

The Gluten-Free Swap: Tamari

If you are avoiding gluten, Tamari is your answer. Tamari is a Japanese form of soy sauce that is typically made with little to no wheat (always check the label to be safe). It tastes almost identical to standard soy sauce, though it is slightly richer, darker, and less salty. You can use it as a direct 1:1 substitute in absolutely any recipe.

The Soy-Free/Paleo Swap: Coconut Aminos

If you have a soy allergy or are following a Paleo diet, Coconut Aminos is a miracle ingredient. Made from fermented coconut sap, it looks exactly like soy sauce. It is completely soy-free and gluten-free. It has a significantly sweeter profile and is much less salty than soy sauce. You can substitute it 1:1, but you will likely need to add an extra pinch of salt to your dish to balance the flavor.

Worcestershire Sauce

If you just ran out of soy sauce and aren’t worried about allergies, check your fridge for Worcestershire sauce. It is a fermented liquid that packs a massive umami punch thanks to ingredients like anchovies and tamarind. It is tangier and less salty than soy sauce, so use it carefully. A good rule of thumb is to substitute 1 tablespoon of soy sauce with 1/2 tablespoon of Worcestershire mixed with 1/2 tablespoon of water.

Liquid Aminos (Bragg)

Liquid aminos are made from soybeans but are not fermented. They taste very similar to light soy sauce but are naturally gluten-free. They are an excellent 1:1 substitute for marinades and stir-fries.