Forktionary

Shoyu

N/A Condiment, Sauce

Shoyu Condiment, Sauce

At a Glance

  • Category Condiment, Sauce

The Forktionary Angle

"The umami elixir, perfecting balance and depth."

Definition

A traditional Japanese soy sauce, typically brewed from soybeans, wheat, salt, and water, known for its complex umami, salty, and slightly sweet flavor.

Fermentation Time Typically 6 months to several years.
Global Consumption A daily staple in millions of households.
Glutamate Content High in naturally occurring glutamates (umami).

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Shoyu are:

Umami Salty Savory Slightly Sweet Fermented

Chef’s Secret

For marinades, dilute shoyu slightly with dashi or water to allow its umami notes to penetrate without overwhelming the main ingredient with saltiness.

Best Substitutes

Tamari

gluten-free, slightly richer
Ratio 1:1

Chinese Light Soy Sauce

slightly saltier, less complex
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for "naturally brewed" labels for higher quality. Choose between dark (koikuchi), light (usukuchi), or tamari depending on use.

Culinary Pairings

Rice Sushi Sashimi Noodles Grilled Meats Vegetables Tofu

Recipes Using Shoyu

100 Raw Thai Salad image
Main Ingredient Vegetables Course Preparation

100 Raw Thai Salad

This vibrant 100% raw Thai salad is a refreshing and healthy meal perfect for a detox or simply a light, flavorful lunch or dinner. Packed with crunchy vegetables, herbs, and a zesty lime dressing, this recipe is quick to prepare and bursting with goodness. Feel angelic after every bite! Experience the ultimate in healthy eating with this delicious and satisfying raw food recipe.

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Another Ramen Recipe image 104
5 Ingredients Or Less Pasta Rice And Grains Asian Low Calorie

Another Ramen Recipe

This incredibly simple and quick ramen recipe is a college student's dream! Impress your friends with this authentically flavored noodle dish – a Chinese friend declared it the best ramen he's had since arriving in the States! Get ready for a flavor explosion in just 11 minutes. Tip: Enjoy the full experience with chopsticks!

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Cream Of Mushroom Soup image 111
Healthy Healthy 2 Dietary Main Ingredient

Cream Of Mushroom Soup

Indulge in this creamy and dreamy mushroom soup, perfect for vegans and adaptable for raw foodists! This quick and easy recipe blends the richness of walnuts with earthy mushrooms for an unforgettable taste experience. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is surprisingly simple and delivers big on flavor. Skip the cooking altogether and enjoy a vibrant raw version, or embrace the subtle warmth of a quick 10-minute cook. Get ready to savor the deliciousness!

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Arare Dofu No Aemono image
Course 15 Minutes Or Less Dietary Healthy 2

Arare Dofu No Aemono

Experience the delightful crunch of this Arare Dofu No Aemono (Hailstone Tofu Salad)! This vibrant Japanese salad features subtly sweet and savory tofu cubes, perfectly complementing the crisp vegetables. While not for beginners, the quick 5-minute cook time and satisfying results make it a rewarding challenge for intermediate cooks. Impress your guests with this unique and flavorful Japanese side dish.

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Ahi Shoyu Poke With Limu Onion image
Course Seafood Appetizers Fish

Ahi Shoyu Poke With Limu Onion

Escape to the Hawaiian Islands with this vibrant Ahi Shoyu Poke! This refreshing appetizer, shared by a local friend, is bursting with fresh flavors. Tender ahi tuna cubes are marinated in a savory shoyu sauce, complemented by crisp limu onion, and seaweed for an unforgettable taste of paradise. Perfect for a light lunch, appetizer, or a stunning addition to your next Hawaiian-themed gathering.

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Asian Chicken Salad With Peanut Dressing image
Preparation 15 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient Asian

Asian Chicken Salad With Peanut Dressing

A taste of Neiman Marcus luxury from the 1980s! This Asian Chicken Salad recipe, originally featured on their restaurant menu, boasts a creamy peanut dressing that's simply irresistible. Slightly updated for today's kitchens, this quick and easy salad is perfect for a weeknight meal or a sophisticated lunch. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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