Out of Low sodium soy sauce, one case
Low sodium soy sauce substitute for heart
6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Coconut aminos
Same amount as the low sodium soy sauce
The best low sodium soy sauce substitutes are coconut aminos (1:1 ratio), low-sodium tamari (1:1 ratio), or diluted regular soy sauce with added flavor enhancers. Coconut aminos are naturally lower in sodium and provide similar umami flavor.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- stir-fries
One casethe full soy sauce card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of low sodium soy sauce | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Coconut aminosstir-fries | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Low-sodium tamaristir-fries | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Diluted soy sauce + flavor enhancersgeneral cooking | Same amountDiluted soy sauce + herbs and spicesWorks | Works |
| 4 | Liquid aminosstir-fries | 2 tsp per 1 tbspTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Homemade low-sodium soy saucegeneral cooking | Same amountThen season to tasteTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Mushroom saucevegetarian cooking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Coconut aminos
different taste, similar texture
Coconut aminos are naturally lower in sodium than soy sauce while providing similar umami flavor. They're made from coconut sap and are soy-free and gluten-free.
- Best for
- stir-fries, marinades, sauces, low-sodium diets
Naturally lower in sodium, soy-free, gluten-free.
Low-sodium tamari
similar taste and texture
Low-sodium tamari provides the closest flavor match to regular soy sauce while containing significantly less sodium. Most tamari is brewed with little or no wheat; check that the label says gluten-free if that matters.
- Best for
- stir-fries, marinades, sauces, gluten-free cooking, low-sodium diets
Reduced sodium version of tamari, closest flavor match.
Diluted soy sauce + flavor enhancers
similar taste and texture
Dilute regular soy sauce with water (1:1 ratio) and add flavor enhancers like garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs to maintain flavor while reducing sodium content.
- Best for
- general cooking, marinades, sauces, stir-fries
Mix regular soy sauce with water and add flavor enhancers.
Liquid aminos
similar taste and texture
Liquid aminos are not a dependable low-sodium choice: the common brands carry about as much sodium per tablespoon as regular soy sauce, sometimes more. Compare the label per tablespoon and use about 2 teaspoons for each tablespoon of soy sauce.
- Best for
- stir-fries, marinades, sauces, salad dressings
Not reliably lower in sodium - check the label per tablespoon and use less.
Homemade low-sodium soy sauce
different taste, similar texture
A common homemade version simmers low-sodium beef or vegetable broth with a little vinegar, molasses, ground ginger and garlic powder until slightly reduced. It gives you control over the sodium, but it is thinner and milder than soy sauce, so taste and adjust.
- Best for
- general cooking, marinades, sauces, complete control over ingredients
A seasoned broth, not a brewed sauce - thinner and much less salty than soy sauce.
Mushroom sauce
different taste and texture
Mushroom sauce provides rich umami flavor. Its sodium varies widely by brand, and some bottles are as salty as soy sauce, so compare labels before using it as a low-sodium swap. It's vegetarian-friendly and works well in many Asian-inspired dishes.
- Best for
- vegetarian cooking, stir-fries, sauces, marinades
Rich umami flavor; sodium varies widely by brand, so check the label.
Tips for substituting low sodium soy sauce
7 tips- Always check nutrition labels to compare sodium content between brands
- Coconut aminos are naturally lower in sodium and work well for most applications
- Low-sodium substitutes work best when combined with other flavor enhancers
- Use herbs, spices, and aromatics to boost flavor without adding sodium
- Store unopened bottles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, follow the label, since many coconut aminos and reduced-sodium sauces should be refrigerated; keep the homemade version in the refrigerator and use it within 3 to 4 days
- Coconut aminos are usually the lowest in sodium of the bottled options, but brands vary
- Low-sodium substitutes work in everyday cooking wherever soy sauce does, but not in cures, brines or pickles, where the salt level is part of what keeps the food safe
Questions
7 questionsWhat's the sodium content difference between soy sauce and coconut aminos?
Regular soy sauce contains about 900-1000mg sodium per tablespoon, while coconut aminos contain about 270mg sodium per tablespoon - about 70% less sodium.
Is low-sodium tamari a good substitute for soy sauce?
Yes, low-sodium tamari is an excellent substitute for soy sauce. It provides the closest flavor match while containing significantly less sodium. Most tamari is gluten-free, but check the label.
Can I dilute regular soy sauce to reduce sodium?
Yes, you can dilute regular soy sauce with water (1:1 ratio) to reduce sodium content by half. Add flavor enhancers like garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs to maintain flavor.
What's the best low-sodium soy sauce substitute for heart-healthy cooking?
Coconut aminos are usually the lowest in sodium of the bottled options, at about 270mg per tablespoon against 900-1000mg for regular soy sauce, though brands vary. How much sodium fits a heart-healthy diet is a question for your doctor or dietitian.
Are liquid aminos lower in sodium than soy sauce?
Usually not. The common brands carry about as much sodium per tablespoon as regular soy sauce, sometimes more, and the serving size on the label is often smaller than a tablespoon. Compare the sodium per tablespoon before buying.
How do I make homemade low-sodium soy sauce?
Simmer low-sodium beef or vegetable broth with a little vinegar, a little molasses, ground ginger and garlic powder until slightly reduced, then cool and keep it in the refrigerator. It is thinner and far less salty than soy sauce, so use it 1:1 to start and season the dish to taste.
Can I use mushroom sauce as a low-sodium soy sauce substitute?
Only if the label supports it. Mushroom sauce provides rich umami flavor, but its sodium varies widely by brand and some bottles are as salty as soy sauce. Compare the sodium per tablespoon, and expect a different flavor profile.