Tamari is a soy sauce that is made without wheat. It has a unique, slightly sweet flavor that makes it a favorite in Asian cuisine.
However, tamari can be difficult to find and expensive. If you’re looking for an alternative to tamari, don’t worry! There are plenty of substitutes that will give your dish the same salty, savory flavor.
In this article, we’ll discuss the best tamari substitutes and how to use them.
Substitutes for Tamari:
- Soy Sauce
- Fish Sauce
- Coconut Aminos
- Hoisin sauce
- Miso Paste
- Anchovies
Soy Sauce
Soy sauce and tamari are both umami-rich condiments that can add depth of flavor to a dish. While they share some similarities, there are also some important differences between the two.
Soy sauce is made from fermented soybeans, while tamari is made from fermented soybean paste. This gives soy sauce a more complex flavor than tamari. Tamari also has a higher percentage of wheat, which gives it a slightly sweeter taste.
So, what are some cases where you might want to use soy sauce as a substitute for tamari?
In general, soy sauce is a good substitute for tamari in any dish where you want to add a boost of savory flavor. Just be sure to use a lower ratio of soy sauce to tamari, as soy sauce is more potent.
Another tip is to add a bit of sugar to offset the saltiness of the soy sauce. With these tips in mind, you can experiment with using soy sauce as a substitute for tamari in all sorts of recipes.
Fish Sauce
Fish sauce is a common ingredient in Southeast Asian cuisine, and it can also be a great substitute for tamari. Fish sauce is made from fermented fish, and it has a rich, savory flavor.
It can be used in stir-fries, soups, and marinades. When substituting fish sauce for tamari, use a 1:1 ratio. With its umami flavor, fish sauce can help to boost the flavor of any dish.
It is also a good source of protein and vitamin B12. So next time you’re looking for a tamari substitute, reach for the fish sauce!
Coconut Aminos
Coconut aminos can be used as a substitute for tamari in many cases. It is important to note, however, that the two sauces are not identical.
Coconut aminos are sweeter and milder than tamari, so they may not be suitable for all recipes. When substituting, it is often best to start with half the amount of tamari called for in the recipe and add more to the taste.
Another way to use coconut aminos as a substitute for tamari is to mix it with other sauces or seasonings. For example, you could mix coconut aminos with rice vinegar and ginger to create a similar flavor profile to tamari.
Ultimately, whether or not you use coconut aminos as a substitute for tamari will depend on your personal preferences and the recipe you are making. However, it can be a good option if you are looking for something sweeter or milder than tamari.
Hoisin sauce
If you’re looking for a gluten-free tamari substitute, hoisin sauce is a great option. Made from fermented soybeans, hoisin sauce is naturally gluten-free and has a similar salty, umami flavor.
It’s also thicker and sweeter than tamari, so it can help to add body and depth of flavor to dishes.
To use hoisin sauce as a substitute for tamari, simply mix it with water in a 1:1 ratio. For every tablespoon of tamari, add one tablespoon of hoisin sauce plus one tablespoon of water.
This will thin out the sauce and help to replicate the consistency of tamari. Use the mixture in any recipe that calls for tamari, from stir-fries to marinades.
Keep in mind that the sweetness of hoisin sauce may be more pronounced in dishes where it is used as a substitute for tamari, so you may need to adjust other ingredients accordingly.
Miso Paste
Miso paste is a great substitute for tamari in many cases. Here are some tips on how to use it:
- When cooking rice, add a spoonful of miso paste to the water for added flavor.
- Use miso paste as a marinade for chicken, fish, or tofu. Simply mix it with some oil and your favorite seasonings.
- Add miso paste to soup or stew for an extra depth of flavor. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
There are many benefits to using miso paste as a substitute for tamari. It is lower in sodium, so it is a good choice for those who are watching their salt intake.
Additionally, miso paste is rich in antioxidants and probiotics, which can promote gut health. Give it a try the next time you are looking for a savory umami flavor!
Anchovies
There are numerous benefits to using anchovies as a substitute for tamari. Firstly, they are lower in sodium and calories. Secondly, they add umami flavor to dishes without being overwhelming. And finally, they are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have numerous health benefits.
Anchovies are a versatile ingredient that can be used as a substitute for tamari in many recipes. Here are some tips on how to use them:
To substitute for tamari in a stir-fry, use a ratio of 1:1. So, if the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of tamari, use 1 tablespoon of anchovies.
Anchovies can also be used as a substitute for soy sauce in marinades and sauces. Again, use a 1:1 ratio.
So, next time you’re looking for a tamari substitute, give anchovies a try!
Final Thoughts
These tamari substitutes are a great way to add flavor to dishes without compromising on taste. Whether you’re looking for a lower-sodium option or want to add more antioxidants and probiotics to your diet, there is a tamari substitute out there for you!
There are many tamari substitutes available, so you can find one that fits your needs. Some good substitutes include coconut aminos, hoisin sauce, and miso paste.
Whichever tamari substitute you choose, be sure to read the ratios so that you get the desired flavor in your dish!