Out of Shoyu, one case
Shoyu substitutes in recipe
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Tamari
Same amount as the shoyu
The best shoyu substitute depends on your recipe: tamari (1:1) for Japanese dishes, regular soy sauce (1:1) for general cooking, coconut aminos (1:1) for gluten-free recipes, and Worcestershire sauce (1:1) for meat dishes. Adjust other seasonings based on the substitute's flavor profile.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- Japanese recipes
One casethe full shoyu card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of shoyu | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TamariJapanese recipes | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Regular soy saucegeneral cooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Coconut aminosgluten-free baking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Worcestershire saucemeat marinades | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Fish sauce + sugarAsian stir-fries | Same amountWith ½ tsp sugar per tbsp fish sauceTweak it | Tweak it |
Tamari
similar taste and texture
Tamari is the closest substitute for shoyu in Japanese recipes. It has a similar fermentation process and flavor profile, making it ideal for authentic Japanese cooking.
- Best for
- Japanese recipes, sushi rice, teriyaki sauce, miso soup, stir-fries
Best for Japanese recipes, sushi rice, teriyaki, and traditional dishes.
Regular soy sauce
similar taste and texture
Regular soy sauce works well in most recipes calling for shoyu. It has a similar salty, umami flavor and can be used in both savory and sweet applications.
- Best for
- general cooking, marinades, sauces, baking, stir-fries
Most versatile substitute, works in most recipes, widely available.
Coconut aminos
different taste, similar texture
Coconut aminos work well in most recipes but are sweeter than shoyu. You may need to reduce other sweeteners in your recipe to compensate.
- Best for
- gluten-free baking, paleo recipes, marinades, salad dressings
Gluten-free and soy-free, sweeter taste, reduce sugar in recipe.
Worcestershire sauce
different taste, similar texture
Worcestershire sauce provides umami depth similar to shoyu but with more complex flavors. It's excellent for meat dishes and hearty recipes.
- Best for
- meat marinades, beef dishes, sauces, soups, stir-fries
More complex flavor, contains anchovies, use in smaller amounts.
Fish sauce + sugar
different taste, similar texture
Fish sauce provides the salty, umami flavor of shoyu. Adding sugar helps balance the intense saltiness and creates a more rounded flavor profile.
- Best for
- Asian stir-fries, soups, marinades, sauces
Very salty, add sugar to balance, great for Asian recipes.
How it behaves in this recipe
When substituting shoyu in recipes, consider the cooking method and other ingredients. For Japanese recipes, tamari provides the most authentic flavor. For general cooking, regular soy sauce works well. For gluten-free or soy-free diets, coconut aminos is the best choice. The key is maintaining the salty, umami flavor that shoyu brings to dishes while considering the overall flavor profile of your recipe.
Tips for substituting shoyu
8 tips- For baking recipes, use regular soy sauce as it's most neutral in flavor
- In marinades, add your substitute early to allow flavors to penetrate
- For stir-fries, add your substitute in the final 30 seconds of cooking
- In soups, add gradually and taste as you go to avoid over-salting
- For teriyaki sauce, combine your substitute with mirin and sugar
- In sushi rice, use tamari for the most authentic flavor
- For meat dishes, Worcestershire sauce adds great depth of flavor
- When using coconut aminos, reduce other sweeteners in your recipe
Notes on shoyu
- Use miso paste diluted with water for a different umami profile
- Combine soy sauce with a small amount of rice vinegar for added complexity
- Add a pinch of MSG to enhance the umami flavor of any substitute
- Use mushroom soy sauce for a deeper, earthier flavor
- Mix soy sauce with a little sesame oil for added richness
Questions
6 questionsWhat's the best shoyu substitute for baking?
Regular soy sauce works best for baking as it has a neutral flavor that won't overpower other ingredients. Tamari can also work well, especially in savory baked goods like crackers or bread.
Can I substitute soy sauce for shoyu in any recipe?
Yes, regular soy sauce can be substituted for shoyu in most recipes using a 1:1 ratio. The flavor will be very similar, though shoyu may have a slightly more complex, traditional taste.
What's the best substitute for shoyu in teriyaki sauce?
Tamari is the best substitute for shoyu in teriyaki sauce as it's closest in flavor and tradition. Combine it with mirin and sugar in the traditional 1:1:1 ratio for authentic flavor.
How do I adjust recipes when using shoyu substitutes?
Most substitutes work at a 1:1 ratio, but you may need to adjust sweetness (coconut aminos are sweeter) or saltiness (some substitutes are less salty). Taste as you go and adjust other seasonings accordingly.
What's the best shoyu substitute for stir-fries?
Regular soy sauce or tamari work well for stir-fries. Add them in the final 30 seconds of cooking to preserve their flavor. For meat stir-fries, Worcestershire sauce can add great depth.
Can I use shoyu substitutes in soup recipes?
Yes, shoyu substitutes work well in soups. Add them gradually and taste as you go to avoid over-salting. For clear soups, use light soy sauce or diluted regular soy sauce to maintain the soup's color.