What's the Best Substitute for Sweet Soy Sauce?
Whether you're out of Sweet Soy Sauce or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Thick, sweet soy sauce with molasses-like consistency and caramelized flavor, commonly used in Indonesian and Malaysian cuisine 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 sweet soy sauce are regular soy sauce with brown sugar, hoisin sauce, teriyaki sauce, or kecap manis depending on the dish.
Best Substitutes for Sweet Soy Sauce
Soy Sauce + Brown Sugar
Ratio
1:1 (add 1-2 tbsp brown sugar per 1/4 cup soy sauce)
Best For
- marinades
- glazes
- stir-fries
- sauces
Description
Regular soy sauce sweetened with brown sugar
Approximates the sweet, thick consistency
Hoisin Sauce
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- marinades
- glazes
- stir-fries
- sauces
Description
Thick, sweet Chinese sauce with similar consistency
Similar thick, sweet consistency
Teriyaki Sauce
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- marinades
- glazes
- stir-fries
- sauces
Description
Sweet, thick Japanese sauce with similar consistency
Similar sweet, thick consistency
Kecap Manis
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- marinades
- glazes
- stir-fries
- sauces
Description
Indonesian sweet soy sauce, very similar to sweet soy sauce
Very similar Indonesian sweet soy sauce
Soy Sauce + Molasses
Ratio
1:1 (add 1-2 tbsp molasses per 1/4 cup soy sauce)
Best For
- marinades
- glazes
- stir-fries
- sauces
Description
Regular soy sauce thickened with molasses
Similar thick consistency and sweetness
Oyster Sauce
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- stir-fries
- sauces
- marinades
- glazes
Description
Thick, sweet Chinese sauce with similar consistency
Similar thick consistency but different flavor
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Sweet Soy Sauce, 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
Sweet soy sauce is thick and sticky, perfect for glazing
Use sparingly as it's quite sweet and salty
Great for marinating meats and vegetables
Common in Indonesian and Malaysian dishes
Can be used as a dipping sauce or cooking ingredient
Store in refrigerator after opening
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications