Tamari

Glycine max (soybeans), Aspergillus oryzae (koji mold) Condiment/Sauce

Tamari Condiment/Sauce

At a Glance

  • Category Condiment/Sauce

The Forktionary Angle

"The deeply savory, often gluten-free Japanese soy sauce, prized for its robust umami and balanced saltiness, elevating a myriad of dishes."

Definition

A Japanese soy sauce variant, traditionally made with little to no wheat, offering a darker color, richer umami, and less salty flavor than standard soy sauce.

Fermentation Time 6-12 months (traditional)
Gluten Content Trace to None (check label)
Sodium Content (varies) High (lower sodium options exist)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Tamari are:

Umami savory salty rich slightly sweet

Chef’s Secret

Use tamari in desserts like caramel or chocolate sauces for a subtle, unexpected umami depth that perfectly balances sweetness without tasting salty.

Best Substitutes

Soy sauce

if gluten isn't an issue
Ratio 1:1

coconut aminos

soy-free, lower sodium, different flavor
Ratio 1:1

liquid aminos

soy-based
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for gluten-free" certification if important. Traditional tamari is made with 100% soybeans."

Recipes Using Tamari

Soy Tofu Low In Something Vegetables Low Cholesterol

Amber's Japan Style Tofu Meal

A quick and healthy weeknight meal inspired by recipe #171417! This vibrant Japan-style tofu dish is packed with flavor and surprisingly simple to make. Enjoy a delicious and nutritious supper in under 40 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights! Get ready for a taste of Japan in your own kitchen!

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Dietary Vegetarian Dietary Low Cholesterol

Asian Broccoli Salad

This vibrant Asian Broccoli Salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight meal! Jane's recipe is incredibly easy to make and holds up beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping. For best results, add the mushrooms right before serving if you're concerned about leftovers. Get ready for a burst of fresh flavors – a delightful mix of crunchy broccoli, savory sesame, and a tangy dressing!

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Lunch Lunch Main Dish 30 Minutes Or Less

Asian Chicken Ravioli With V8 Creamy Tomato Sauce

Award-winning recipe! This Asian Chicken Ravioli, boasting a creamy V8 tomato sauce, is a flavor explosion. Impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The rich, savory filling combined with the vibrant sauce creates a dish you'll want to make again and again. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Holiday Event Pasta Occasion Taste Mood

Asian Sesame Noodle Salad With Peanut Dressing Vegetarian

This vibrant Asian Sesame Noodle Salad is a quick and easy vegetarian meal packed with flavor! A creamy peanut dressing coats perfectly cooked noodles and crisp veggies for a satisfying and healthy lunch or dinner. Customize it with your favorite vegetables for a personalized touch. Prepare the dressing and noodles ahead of time to save even more time! Serves 4-6 (easily doubled for 6-8).

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Main Dish Course Main Ingredient Preparation

Asian Style Ground Chicken And Noodles

This vibrant Asian-inspired noodle dish is ready in under 40 minutes! Tender ground chicken (or turkey!) is stir-fried with colorful veggies and tossed in a savory, tangy sauce. A quick and easy weeknight meal the whole family will love. Adapted from Ilanna Simon's "125 Best Ground Meat Recipes."

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Summer Occasion Time To Make Summer

Asparagus Feta Pumpkin Seed Salad

Brighten your early summer with this vibrant Asparagus Feta Pumpkin Seed Salad! The salty feta cheese dances beautifully with the creamy pumpkin seeds and tender asparagus, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. A satisfying crunch from the seeds perfectly complements the smooth, rich ingredients. This recipe is a delightful and light meal for two – you'll want to devour the whole thing!

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60 Minutes Or Less Fall Dietary Cuisine

Barbecue Tofu

Tender tofu marinated in a smoky, sweet, and tangy homemade barbecue sauce, then baked to perfection or grilled for an extra delicious char! This family-favorite recipe, adapted from Dr. Neil Barnard's "Breaking the Food Seduction," is surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue.

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Low In Something Vegan Healthy 2 Main Dish

Barbecued Tempeh

Transform humble tempeh into an irresistible barbecue feast! This recipe lets you customize a smoky, tangy barbecue sauce to your exact liking. Homemade sauce offers unparalleled flavor control, but bottled barbecue sauce works in a pinch. Get ready for tender, flavorful tempeh that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. #tempehrecipe #barbecue #vegetarian #vegan #comfortfood #easyrecipe

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3 Steps Or Less Dietary Preparation 30 Minutes Or Less

Beet Kale Salad

Transform tough kale into a vibrant and surprisingly delicious salad! This recipe features earthy beets and a zesty dressing that will make you rethink raw kale. Quick, easy, and perfect for a healthy lunch or side dish.

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