Condiment | Vegan Vegetarian Low Calorie

Soy Sauce

Glycine max Allergens: Soy, Wheat (Gluten)
soy sauce

Sourcing & Taxonomy

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

The Forktionary Angle

"Unlocking the umami power of this global staple."

Definition

A fermented condiment made from soybeans, wheat, salt, and water, essential for its savory, umami flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteUmami, Salty, Savory, Sweet, Fermented
TextureThin, Liquid, Smooth
AromaFermented, Earthy, Salty
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Fermentation Time

6 months to several years

Global Consumption

Billions of liters annually

Shelf Life (Unopened)

2-3 years

Nutrition Facts

Per 15 mL (1 tbsp)
Calories53 kcal
Total Fat0.1 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein10.5 g
Total Carbohydrate5.7 g
Dietary Fiber0.8 g
Total Sugars2.7 g
Calcium20 mg
Iron0.9 mg
Potassium236 mg

Chef’s Secret

For a quick boost of umami in almost any savory dish, a splash of soy sauce (even in non-Asian recipes) can deepen flavors without tasting distinctly 'soy'.

Substitutions

Best Match

Tamari

1:1

Closest flavor match, often gluten-free, slightly richer.

Coconut Aminos

1:1

Gluten-free, soy-free, less salty, slightly sweeter, good for marinades.

Fish Sauce (diluted)

1:1 (diluted)

Provides umami and saltiness, but with a distinct fish flavor. Use carefully.

Worcestershire Sauce

1:1 (for savory depth)

Adds savory, tangy notes but has a unique flavor profile, not ideal for Asian dishes.

Buying Guide

Choose naturally brewed for best flavor. Check sodium content for dietary needs.

Flavor Pairings

Rice Noodles Ginger Garlic Sesame Oil Mirin Sushi Meat.

Recipes Using Soy Sauce

Spicy For 1 Or 2 Soy Tofu Beans

Some Like It Hot

Ignite your taste buds with this fiery Indonesian-inspired tempeh stir-fry! Packed with vibrant vegetables, crunchy peanuts, and aromatic spices, this recipe is easily customizable to your spice preference. Skip the chili peppers and sambal for a milder version, but be warned – even without them, it's still a flavor explosion! Serve with fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Course Easy Beginner Cook

412 Broccoli Casserole

This 412th broccoli casserole recipe takes inspiration from the classic green bean casserole, but with a delicious twist! Ditch the cream of mushroom soup and embrace a creamy, cheesy broccoli bake that's bursting with flavor. This recipe features tender broccoli florets, a rich cheese sauce, and crispy fried onions for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience a broccoli casserole like no other!

See Complete Recipe
Preparation Course Preparation Main Dish

Amazing Braise

Ready in under an hour, this hearty one-pan braised chicken recipe is bursting with flavor! Tender chicken thighs and root vegetables simmer in a vibrant orange-soy glaze, creating a weeknight dinner that's both impressive and easy. Perfect for busy cooks seeking delicious, healthy meals. #OnePanDinner #BraisedChicken #EasyRecipe #WeeknightDinner #RSC9

See Complete Recipe
Low Carb Dietary Low Fat Main Ingredient

Apricot Chicken Thighs

Sweet and savory apricot chicken thighs are a delightful and easy weeknight meal! Tender chicken thighs are glazed with a tangy apricot sauce, creating a flavor explosion that's perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. This recipe is incredibly simple to follow, resulting in juicy, flavorful chicken that will impress your taste buds.

See Complete Recipe
60 Minutes Or Less 60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Preparation

Asian Barbecued Pork Tenderloin

Experience a burst of Asian flavors with this succulent Barbecued Pork Tenderloin recipe, inspired by Marlene Koch's "Fantastic Food with Splenda." This recipe uses a rich and complex hoisin-based marinade (Koon Chun brand recommended) to create tender, flavorful pork perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The marinade infuses the pork with sweet, spicy, and savory notes, resulting in a dish that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious. Prep time doesn't include the essential marinating time, allowing you to tailor it to your schedule.

See Complete Recipe
Snacks Presentation Shellfish Fruit

Asian Boiled Shrimp Spicy Asian Mayonnaise

A tantalizing twist on a New Orleans classic! This recipe infuses succulent boiled shrimp with vibrant Asian flavors, creating an irresistible appetizer perfect for any occasion. The creamy, spicy Asian mayonnaise is equally delicious as a dipping sauce or used to elevate sandwiches and tuna salad. Maria Elena's go-to appetizer, this recipe is easily customizable to your spice preference. Impress your guests with this quick and flavorful dish!

See Complete Recipe
Dinner Party Dietary Time To Make Low Cholesterol

Asian Broccoli With Peanut Butter

A quick and easy Asian Broccoli recipe inspired by James Barber's "Urban Peasant." This vibrant dish features tender-crisp broccoli tossed in a luscious, homemade peanut butter sauce. Ready in under 15 minutes, it's a perfect weeknight meal or a delightful side dish.

See Complete Recipe
Main Dish Equipment Poultry Course

Asian Chicken Linguine

A quick and easy weeknight dinner bursting with vibrant Asian-inspired flavors! This recipe isn't authentically Asian, but it delivers a delicious fusion of sweet, savory, and spicy notes that will tantalize your taste buds. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked linguine, and a mouthwatering sauce make this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

See Complete Recipe
Greens Salads Nuts Poultry

Asian Chicken Salad With Glazed Pecans

Craving a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal? This Asian Chicken Salad with Maple-Glazed Pecans is your answer! Packed with fresh veggies, juicy chicken (or tofu for a vegetarian option!), and crunchy, sweet maple-glazed pecans, this salad is perfect for a light lunch or satisfying dinner. The irresistible maple pecans take only 5 minutes to make, and the entire salad comes together in a flash. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

See Complete Recipe
Course Comfort Food 4 Hours Or Less Fruit

Asian Comfort Food Coconut Curry Chicken Noodle Soup

Indulge in this creamy, aromatic Coconut Curry Chicken Noodle Soup, a comforting Asian-inspired dish bursting with flavor! Chicken simmered to perfection in a rich, homemade broth forms the base of this easy-to-make recipe. Infused with fragrant Thai curry paste and luscious coconut milk, this soup is customizable to your spice preference. Served without added salt or soy sauce (served on the side for individual preference), it's a healthy and delicious option perfect for a light lunch or satisfying dinner. Inspired by the culinary traditions of [mention specific Asian countries if known from zwt-9 reference], this recipe highlights the common use of coconut milk and delivers a taste of authentic Asian flavors.

See Complete Recipe
Low Carb Healthy 2 Easy Low Cholesterol

Asian Cucumber Slaw

This refreshing and light Asian Cucumber Slaw is perfect for a hot day! A vibrant mix of crisp cucumbers, carrots, red bell pepper, and onion tossed in a creamy sesame dressing and topped with crunchy cashews. This low-calorie recipe is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Inspired by a Harris Teeter grocery store recipe card.

See Complete Recipe
60 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient Preparation Poultry

Asian Garlic Chicken

Ready in under 45 minutes, this Asian Garlic Chicken recipe is a flavor explosion! Tender chicken breasts are bathed in a savory sauce bursting with garlic, soy, and aromatic spices. Quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

See Complete Recipe
Vegetarian Vegan Preparation Main Ingredient

Asian Hummous

Elevate your appetizer game with this vibrant Asian Hummus! Inspired by Bon Appetit (January 2006), this recipe uses canned beans for a speedy prep time, but don't skimp on the star anise – it's the key to unlocking its unique flavor. Serve with shrimp chips or your favorite spicy potato chips for an unforgettable snack or starter. Get ready for a burst of Asian-inspired flavors in just 15 minutes!

See Complete Recipe
Dietary 60 Minutes Or Less Dietary Time To Make

Asian Influnced Salmon

Elevate your weeknight meal with this vibrant and flavorful Asian-inspired salmon recipe! This light yet flavorful glaze lets the delicate taste of the salmon shine through. A simple blend of Asian-inspired ingredients creates a zesty salsa that's both sweet and spicy. Perfect for a quick and healthy dinner, this recipe is easily customizable to your spice preference – add more salsa for extra heat! Impress your family and friends with this restaurant-quality dish.

See Complete Recipe
30 Minutes Or Less Broccoli Spicy Main Dish

Asian Noodles My Sister's Recipe

Craving a quick and delicious Asian noodle dish? My sister left behind her amazing noodle recipe, and it's a keeper! This easy-to-follow recipe uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients for a flavorful meal ready in under 30 minutes. We've adapted the measurements for everyone, and half the sauce is included so you'll have leftovers for another delicious meal! Get ready to be amazed by this simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe.

See Complete Recipe
Low Saturated Fat Healthy 2 Beginner Cook Main Dish

Asian Pasta Salad

A vibrant and flavorful vegetarian pasta salad inspired by Asian cuisine! This quick and easy recipe, originally from Karen C. Greenlee and featured in the Zaar World Tour 2005, is perfect for a light lunch, weeknight dinner, or potluck contribution. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful mix of textures and tastes in under an hour!

See Complete Recipe
Preparation Time To Make Asian Asparagus

Asparagus With Cashews

This vibrant recipe delivers a quick and easy weeknight meal! Crisp-tender asparagus spears are tossed with savory cashews, fragrant ginger, and earthy mushrooms in a flavorful soy sauce. Best prepared in a wok for maximum flavor, but easily adaptable to a high-sided skillet. This delicious side dish complements any protein, from chicken and fish to tofu and steak. Get ready for a flavor explosion in just 20 minutes!

See Complete Recipe
15 Minutes Or Less Dietary Main Ingredient Vegetarian

Aussie Rice Salad

This vibrant Aussie Rice Salad is a crowd-pleaser! A refined recipe from an Australian website, featuring a delightful blend of crunchy vegetables, savory bacon bits (or water chestnuts!), and a creamy, subtly spiced mayonnaise dressing. Perfect for a light lunch, potluck, or side dish. We've tweaked the original recipe based on your feedback for a perfectly balanced flavor profile – less soy sauce and allspice, more mayo for a creamier texture, and the perfect touch of sweetness from the veggies. Get ready to enjoy this taste of Australia!

See Complete Recipe