Japanese Flavors: 5 BEST Tamari Sauce Substitutes

Craving that rich, umami-packed punch of tamari sauce but just ran out? No sweat!

We’ve got you covered with some killer swaps.

Truth is, tamari sauce is a superstar in bringing out those deep, savory flavors in dishes.

However, sticking to one condiment is like only listening to one song—exciting at first, but you’ll soon want to switch it up.

Lucky for you, the world of flavors is vast and full of surprises.

Think of this as your golden ticket to mixing things up in the kitchen without losing an ounce of yum.

Ready for a flavor-packed ride with tamari substitutes that might just steal the show?

Buckle up, because we’re about to dive in.

What is Tamari Sauce?

Tamari is a type of soy sauce that originated in Japan.

It is made from fermented soybeans and is known for its dark color and rich, umami flavor.

Tamari is less salty than traditional soy sauce, making it a popular choice for those who are watching their sodium intake.

It can be used in any dish that calls for soy sauce, from stir-fries to marinades.

Tamari can also be used as a dipping sauce or used to create a flavorful broth.

Wondering how to cook with tamari sauce? Here are some quick and easy tips:

• Add tamari sauce to marinades for chicken, beef, or pork. Let the meat sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Use tamari sauce as a dipping sauce for dumplings or spring rolls.
• Stir-fry vegetables or meat in a tamari sauce glaze. To make the glaze, simply combine equal parts tamari sauce and honey (or brown sugar).
• Add a splash of tamari sauce to soup or noodle dishes for extra flavor.

Not only is tamari sauce delicious, but it’s also versatile.

Use it in any dish that calls for soy sauce, or give it a try in a new recipe.

The 5 Best Substitutes for Tamari Sauce

If you’re out of tamari sauce or just looking for a change, there are plenty of substitutes that will work in a pinch.

Here are the five best substitutes for tamari sauce.

1 – Soy Sauce

Soy sauce is a dark, salty liquid made from fermenting soybeans.

It is commonly used in Asian cuisine as a dipping sauce or to add flavor to dishes.

Tamari is a type of soy sauce that is made without wheat, making it gluten-free.

Tamari has a richer and less salty flavor than soy sauce, making it a good alternative for those who are sensitive to salt.

When substituting tamari for soy sauce, you may need to adjust the amount you use to account for the difference in flavor.

For instance, if a recipe calls for one tablespoon of soy sauce, you may only need to use one teaspoon of tamari.

You can also add tamari to taste after the dish is cooked.

Experiment with substituting tamari for soy sauce in your favorite recipes to find the perfect balance of flavors.

2 – Coconut Aminos

Coconut aminos is a sauce made from coconut sap and sea salt.

It has a similar taste to soy sauce but is sweeter and less salty.

Because it is gluten-free and contains no soy, it is a good choice for those with allergies or sensitivities.

It is also a good alternative for those who are trying to avoid soy sauce or tamari.

Coconut aminos can be used in any recipe that calls for soy sauce or tamari.

It can be added to stir-fries, marinades, salad dressings, and soups.

It is also a good dipping sauce for spring rolls or dumplings.

For the best flavor, be sure to use coconut aminos that are made with quality ingredients.

Look for brands that use organic coconuts and unrefined sea salt.

3 – Worcestershire Sauce

Worcestershire sauce is a popular condiment with a distinctively savory flavor.

It is made by fermenting anchovies, vinegar, and spices.

Tamari is a similar condiment that is made without anchovies and has a slightly sweeter flavor.

While Worcestershire sauce can be used as a substitution for tamari, it is not a perfect match.

The anchovies in Worcestershire sauce will add a salty, fishy flavor to dishes that may not be desired.

If you are looking to substitute Worcestershire sauce for tamari, it is best to do so in dishes where the other flavors will mask the fishiness of the Worcestershire sauce.

Additionally, you may want to add a bit of sugar to balance out the saltiness of the Worcestershire sauce.

Overall, while Worcestershire sauce can be used as a substitution for tamari, it is not an exact replacement.

4 – Fish Sauce

Fish sauce is a popular ingredient in many Southeast Asian dishes and can be a great substitute for tamari.

Unlike tamari, fish sauce is made from fermented fish, usually anchovies.

This fermentation process gives the fish sauce its distinct umami flavor, which can add depth and complexity to a dish.

In addition, fish sauce is also typically lower in sodium than tamari.

As a result, it can be a great way to add flavor to a dish without adding too much salt.

When substituting fish sauce for tamari, starting with less than what the recipe calls for is important.

You can always add more, but it is difficult to remove once it has been added.

Start by substituting one tablespoon of fish sauce for every three tablespoons of tamari called for in the recipe.

Then, adjust to taste.

5 – Braggs Liquid Aminos

Braggs liquid aminos is a great product that can be used in place of tamari.

Tamari is a type of soy sauce that is made with little or no wheat.

Most store-bought soy sauces have gluten in them, but Bragg’s is gluten-free.

This makes it a good choice for those who are celiac or have gluten sensitivity.

Bragg’s is also lower in sodium than tamari and has no added sugar.

It’s a bit more expensive than tamari, but it’s worth it if you’re looking for a healthier option.

When substituting Bragg’s for tamari, use the same amount called for in the recipe.

You may need to add a little extra water to thin it out; otherwise, it should work just as well.

Give Bragg’s a try next time you’re looking for a healthy alternative to soy sauce.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tamari sauce has many substitutes that can be used in a pinch.

Some of these substitutes include soy sauce, fish sauce, coconut aminos, Worcestershire sauce, and Braggs liquid aminos.

Each of these substitutes has its own unique flavor that can add something special to your dish.

When choosing a substitute for tamari sauce, be sure to consider the other flavors in your dish and choose a substitute that will complement them.