Sauce | Vegan

Dark Soya Sauce

N/A Allergens: Soy, Gluten
Dark Soya Sauce

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Fabaceae (for soybeans), Poaceae (for wheat)
  • Primary Cuisine East Asian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Soybeans, Wheat

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

A Chinese-style soy sauce that is darker, thicker, and slightly sweeter than light soy sauce, primarily used for color and caramel notes rather than saltiness.

Sensory Profile

TasteSalty, Umami, Sweet, Malty, Slightly Caramelized
TextureViscous, Thicker than light soy sauce
AromaFermented Soy, Malty, Savory
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 15ml (1 tbsp)
Calories120 kcal
Total Fat0 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein6 g
Total Carbohydrate24 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars16 g
Calcium20 mg
Iron1 mg
Potassium200 mg

Chef’s Secret

Use dark soy sauce sparingly for color and a touch of sweetness; its intense color can easily overpower a dish if used too liberally.

Substitutions

Best Match

Light Soy Sauce + Molasses/Brown Sugar

1:1 soy + 1/2 tsp sweetener

Mimics color and sweetness, less viscous

Sweet Soy Sauce (Kecap Manis)

1:1

Sweeter and thicker, less salty, good for color

Mushroom Soy Sauce

1:1

Adds umami and darker color, sometimes contains caramel color

Tamari (for gluten-free) + Molasses/Brown Sugar

1:1 tamari + 1/2 tsp sweetener

Gluten-free alternative, lacks wheat notes

Buying Guide

Select brands labeled 'premium' or 'superior' for best quality and depth of flavor; check for natural brewing.

Flavor Pairings

Braised Meats Stir-fries Noodles Marinades Glazes Cantonese Cuisine