Out of Liquid aminos, one case
Liquid aminos substitute for cooking
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Soy sauce
Same amount as the liquid aminos
For cooking, the best liquid aminos substitutes are soy sauce (1:1), tamari (1:1), or coconut aminos (1:1). These provide similar umami flavor and work well in marinades, stir-fries, dressings, and sauces.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- When you don't have dietary restrictions
One casethe full liquid aminos card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of liquid aminos | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Soy sauceWhen you don't have dietary restrictions | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | TamariWhen you need gluten-free but can have soy | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Coconut aminosWhen you need soy-free and gluten-free | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Worcestershire sauceWhen you want a different flavor profile | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Fish sauceAsian cooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Soy sauce
similar taste and texture
Traditional fermented soy sauce with similar umami flavor
- Best for
- When you don't have dietary restrictions, Traditional Asian cooking, Marinades and stir-fries
Contains soy and gluten. Stronger flavor than liquid aminos.
Tamari
similar taste and texture
Gluten-free soy sauce with similar flavor profile
- Best for
- When you need gluten-free but can have soy, Japanese cooking, Marinades and dressings
Contains soy but is gluten-free. Similar flavor to liquid aminos.
Coconut aminos
similar taste and texture
Soy-free and gluten-free alternative made from coconut sap
- Best for
- When you need soy-free and gluten-free, Health-conscious cooking, Sweet and savory dishes
Soy-free and gluten-free like liquid aminos. Slightly sweeter flavor.
Worcestershire sauce
different taste, similar texture
Complex fermented sauce with umami flavor
- Best for
- When you want a different flavor profile, Western cooking, Marinades and sauces
Different flavor profile but provides umami. Contains anchovies.
Fish sauce
different taste, similar texture
Fermented fish sauce with strong umami flavor
- Best for
- Asian cooking, When you want strong umami flavor, Stir-fries and marinades
Much stronger flavor than liquid aminos. Use sparingly.
How it behaves in this recipe
In cooking, liquid aminos serve to add umami flavor and depth to dishes. They're particularly valued for being soy-free and gluten-free while still providing the savory taste that enhances many recipes.
Tips for substituting liquid aminos
6 tips- Liquid aminos add umami flavor and depth to dishes
- They work well in marinades, stir-fries, dressings, and sauces
- Liquid aminos are soy-free and gluten-free, making them ideal for dietary restrictions
- They're milder and sweeter than traditional soy sauce
- Start with the same amount as liquid aminos and adjust to taste
- Liquid aminos are good for people with soy or gluten sensitivities
Notes on liquid aminos
- Use different sauces for different flavor profiles
- Mix sauces to create custom flavor combinations
- Consider the cuisine - some sauces work better in certain dishes
- Adjust other seasonings based on the substitute's flavor profile
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best substitute for liquid aminos in cooking?
The best substitute for liquid aminos in cooking depends on your dietary needs. Soy sauce works if you don't have restrictions, tamari if you need gluten-free, and coconut aminos if you need soy-free and gluten-free.
Can I use soy sauce instead of liquid aminos?
Yes, soy sauce can be used instead of liquid aminos in cooking, but it contains soy and gluten, which liquid aminos don't. The flavor will also be stronger than liquid aminos.
Will the substitute change the taste of my dish?
The taste difference depends on the substitute. Soy sauce and tamari are similar to liquid aminos, while coconut aminos are slightly sweeter. Worcestershire and fish sauce have different flavor profiles but provide umami.
How do I choose the right substitute?
Choose based on your dietary needs: soy sauce if you have no restrictions, tamari if you need gluten-free, coconut aminos if you need soy-free and gluten-free, or Worcestershire/fish sauce if you want different flavors.
Can I use liquid aminos substitutes in any recipe?
Yes, liquid aminos substitutes can be used in any recipe that calls for liquid aminos. They work well in marinades, stir-fries, dressings, sauces, and as a table condiment.