Condiment | Vegan Vegetarian

Japanese Soy Sauce

Glycine max Allergens: Soy, Wheat, Gluten
Japanese Soy 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 traditional Japanese condiment, typically brewed from soybeans, wheat, salt, and water, known for its rich umami, savory, and slightly sweet flavor profile.

Sensory Profile

TasteSalty, Umami, Savory, Slightly Sweet, Complex Fermented
TextureThin, Liquid, Smooth
AromaFermented, Pungent, Salty, Earthy
AcidityLow-Medium

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 15ml (1 tbsp)
Calories53 kcal
Total Fat0 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein7 g
Total Carbohydrate6 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars2 g
Calcium20 mg
Iron1 mg
Potassium300 mg

Chef’s Secret

Adding a splash of mirin or sugar can balance the saltiness and enhance the umami of soy sauce in many dishes.

Substitutions

Best Match

Chinese Light Soy Sauce

1:1

Very similar in saltiness and umami, slightly less sweet and more pronounced soy flavor.

Tamari

1:1

Gluten-free alternative, often darker and richer, a bit less sweet than Japanese soy sauce.

Coconut Aminos

1:1 (add more for intensity)

Soy-free, gluten-free, much lower sodium, sweeter, and less umami, suitable for specific dietary needs.

Fish Sauce (diluted)

1:0.5 (dilute with water)

Adds strong umami and saltiness, but with a distinct fishy flavor, best for savory Asian dishes.

Buying Guide

Look for naturally brewed" varieties for best flavor. Check for wheat content if gluten sensitive."

Flavor Pairings

Sushi sashimi stir-fries marinades dumplings grilled meats tofu rice.

Recipes Using Japanese Soy Sauce

Barley And Sesame Chicken Stir Fry image 157
Time To Make Main Ingredient Grains Preparation

Barley And Sesame Chicken Stir Fry

This quick and easy 20-minute Barley and Sesame Chicken Stir-Fry recipe from Lorna Sass's "Whole Grains Every Day, Every Way" is packed with flavor and healthy ingredients. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe uses leftover cooked barley (or your favorite grain!) and pre-sliced chicken for ultimate convenience. The savory sesame sauce, crunchy vegetables, and tender chicken create a delicious and satisfying stir-fry that's sure to become a family favorite. Pair it with a crisp Chenin Blanc for the ultimate culinary experience!

See Complete Recipe