Out of Soy sauce, one case
Soy sauce substitute for marinades
6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Tamari
Same amount as the soy sauce
The best soy sauce substitutes for marinades are tamari (1:1 ratio), coconut aminos (1:1 ratio), or Worcestershire sauce (1:1 ratio). Tamari provides the closest flavor match, while coconut aminos work well for gluten-free and soy-free diets.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- meat marinades
One casethe full soy sauce card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of soy sauce | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tamarimeat marinades | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Coconut aminossoy-free diets | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Worcestershire saucemeat marinades | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Fish sauceThai marinades | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Liquid aminoshealth-conscious marinades | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 6 | Oyster sauceChinese marinades | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Tamari
similar taste and texture
Tamari is the best substitute for soy sauce in marinades. It provides the same umami flavor and saltiness as traditional soy sauce while being naturally gluten-free. It penetrates meat well and creates flavorful, tender results.
- Best for
- meat marinades, vegetable marinades, Asian-style marinades, gluten-free cooking
Closest flavor match, naturally gluten-free, good for marinades.
Coconut aminos
different taste, similar texture
Coconut aminos work excellently in marinades, providing similar umami flavor while being soy-free and gluten-free. They're slightly sweeter than soy sauce, which can enhance the flavor of marinated meats and vegetables.
- Best for
- soy-free diets, gluten-free cooking, Paleo cooking, vegetarian marinades
Soy-free and gluten-free, slightly sweeter, works well in marinades.
Worcestershire sauce
different taste, similar texture
Worcestershire sauce provides complex umami flavor that works excellently in marinades, particularly for meat. It contains anchovies and tamarind, creating a rich, savory marinade that tenderizes and flavors meat beautifully.
- Best for
- meat marinades, Western-style marinades, complex flavor profiles
Complex flavor with anchovies, good for meat marinades.
Fish sauce
different taste, similar texture
Fish sauce provides intense umami flavor that works well in Southeast Asian-style marinades. Use it sparingly as it's much stronger than soy sauce, and it's not suitable for vegetarians.
- Best for
- Thai marinades, Vietnamese marinades, Southeast Asian cooking
Intense umami flavor, use sparingly, not suitable for vegetarians.
Liquid aminos
similar taste and texture
Liquid aminos provide a similar flavor profile to soy sauce and work well in marinades. They contain all essential amino acids and are often considered a healthier alternative to traditional soy sauce.
- Best for
- health-conscious marinades, general cooking, vegetarian marinades
Contains all essential amino acids, similar flavor to soy sauce.
Oyster sauce
different taste and texture
Oyster sauce can work in marinades, providing a thick, sweet flavor profile. It adds richness and depth to marinades, though it will change the flavor slightly from traditional soy sauce.
- Best for
- Chinese marinades, sweet and savory marinades, vegetable marinades
Thick, sweet sauce, adds richness to marinades.
Tips for substituting soy sauce
7 tips- Marinades work best when they contain acid (vinegar, citrus) to tenderize meat
- Add soy sauce substitutes gradually to taste, as they can be quite salty
- For best results, marinate meat for at least 30 minutes, up to 24 hours
- Don't reuse marinades that have been in contact with raw meat
- Store marinades in the refrigerator while marinating
- Soy sauce substitutes work best when combined with other flavor enhancers like garlic, ginger, and herbs
- For tender results, use a combination of soy sauce substitute, oil, and acid in your marinade
Questions
7 questionsWhat's the best soy sauce substitute for marinades?
Tamari is the best substitute for soy sauce in marinades as it provides the closest flavor match and penetrates meat well. Coconut aminos also work excellently for gluten-free and soy-free diets.
Can I use Worcestershire sauce in marinades?
Yes, Worcestershire sauce works excellently in marinades, particularly for meat. It provides complex umami flavor and helps tenderize meat, though it has a different flavor profile than soy sauce.
How long should I marinate with soy sauce substitutes?
Marinate meat for at least 30 minutes, up to 24 hours for best results. Vegetables can be marinated for 15-30 minutes. Don't over-marinate as it can make meat mushy.
Can I use coconut aminos in marinades?
Yes, coconut aminos work excellently in marinades. They're slightly sweeter than soy sauce, which can enhance the flavor of marinated meats and vegetables. They're also soy-free and gluten-free.
What's the best marinade ratio for soy sauce substitutes?
Use a 1:1 ratio of soy sauce substitute to replace soy sauce in marinades. Combine with oil, acid (vinegar or citrus), and herbs for a balanced marinade.
Can I use fish sauce in marinades?
Yes, fish sauce can work in Southeast Asian-style marinades, but use it sparingly as it's much stronger than soy sauce. It's not suitable for vegetarians.
How do I make a basic marinade with soy sauce substitutes?
Mix ¼ cup of soy sauce substitute with ¼ cup of oil, 2 tablespoons of acid (vinegar or citrus juice), and herbs and spices to taste. This creates a balanced marinade that works well with most meats and vegetables.