What's the Best Substitute for Soy Glaze?
Whether you're out of Soy Glaze or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Thick, sweet soy-based sauce with a glossy finish, commonly used in Asian cooking for glazing meats and vegetables In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for soy glaze are teriyaki sauce, hoisin sauce, or homemade glaze using soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch.
Best Substitutes for Soy Glaze
Teriyaki Sauce
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- glazing
- marinades
- stir-fries
- grilling
- roasting
Description
Sweet and savory Japanese sauce with similar consistency and flavor profile. Perfect for glazing and marinades.
Slightly sweeter than soy glaze. May need to reduce cooking time to prevent burning.
Hoisin Sauce
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- glazing
- marinades
- stir-fries
- dipping
- roasting
Description
Thick, sweet Chinese sauce with complex flavors. Provides similar glazing properties with more aromatic depth.
More complex flavor with garlic and spices. May need to thin with water or soy sauce.
Soy Sauce + Sugar + Cornstarch
Ratio
1:1 (1 tbsp soy glaze = 2 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tsp sugar + 1/2 tsp cornstarch)
Best For
- glazing
- marinades
- sauces
- stir-fries
- roasting
Description
Homemade alternative that replicates the sweet, thick consistency of soy glaze.
Mix cornstarch with cold water before adding to prevent clumping. Simmer until thickened.
Oyster Sauce
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- glazing
- stir-fries
- marinades
- roasting
- braising
Description
Thick, savory sauce with umami depth. Provides similar glazing properties with a more savory profile.
Less sweet than soy glaze. May need to add sugar or honey for sweetness.
Worcestershire Sauce + Brown Sugar
Ratio
1:1 (1 tbsp soy glaze = 1 tbsp Worcestershire + 1 tsp brown sugar)
Best For
- glazing
- marinades
- roasting
- grilling
- barbecue
Description
Western alternative with similar umami and sweetness. Good for non-Asian dishes that need glazing.
More complex flavor with anchovy and tamarind. Adjust sweetness to taste.
Balsamic Glaze
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- glazing
- roasting
- grilling
- salads
- vegetables
Description
Reduced balsamic vinegar with thick, syrupy consistency. Provides similar glazing properties with different flavor profile.
Much more acidic and less salty. Best for Mediterranean or Western dishes.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Soy Glaze, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Apply soy glaze in the last few minutes of cooking to prevent burning and maintain shine
Brush glaze on meats and vegetables while they're still hot for best adhesion
Thin soy glaze with a little water or soy sauce if it becomes too thick
Use a silicone brush to apply glaze evenly and avoid over-applying
Store homemade soy glaze in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks
Warm soy glaze slightly before using to make it easier to spread
Layer multiple thin coats of glaze rather than one thick coat for better results
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications