Fish sauce is a staple in Southeast Asian cuisine and is used to add umami flavor to dishes. It is commonly used in recipes such as stir-fries, marinades, and dipping sauces. However, some people may not be able to consume it due to dietary restrictions or personal preferences. In these instances, fish sauce can be substituted with a few different ingredients.
Soy sauce or coconut aminos can be used as a 1:1 substitute for fish sauce, but keep in mind that they have a different flavor profile. Another option is to mix together equal parts of salt and seaweed or kelp granules for a similar flavor profile. These substitutes can be used in recipes like stir-fries, soups, and sauces to add a salty, savory flavor without the fishiness.
How To Substitute Fish Sauce
| Fish Sauce Substitute | Typical Ratio for 1 Serving | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Oyster Sauce | 1 tablespoon oyster sauce per 1 tablespoon of fish sauce | Oyster sauce has a similar umami flavor to fish sauce and can be used as a substitute in stir-fries and sauces. |
| Vegan Fish Sauce | 1:1 ratio | Vegan fish sauce is made from ingredients like seaweed, soy sauce, and vinegar, and has a similar flavor to traditional fish sauce. |
| Soy Sauce | 1 tablespoon soy sauce per 1 tablespoon of fish sauce | Soy sauce is a common substitute for fish sauce, but it has a saltier flavor, so adjust the amount used to taste. |
| Mushroom and Soy Sauce Broth | 1:1 ratio | A mixture of mushroom broth and soy sauce can be used as a substitute for fish sauce, as the mushroom broth provides a similar umami flavor. |
| Coconut Aminos | 1:1 ratio | Coconut aminos are a sweeter alternative to soy sauce and can be used as a substitute for fish sauce in sauces and marinades. |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce per 1 tablespoon of fish sauce | Worcestershire sauce has a similar umami flavor to fish sauce and can be used as a substitute in sauces and marinades. |
| Seaweed | A pinch of dried seaweed per 1 tablespoon of fish sauce | Dried seaweed can be used as a substitute for fish sauce to add a salty, umami flavor to dishes. |
| Tamari Sauce | 1 tablespoon tamari sauce per 1 tablespoon of fish sauce | Tamari sauce is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and can be used as a substitute for fish sauce in stir-fries and sauces. |
| Hoisin Sauce | 1 teaspoon hoisin sauce per 1 tablespoon of fish sauce | Hoisin sauce is a sweeter, thicker sauce that can be used as a substitute for fish sauce in stir-fries and sauces. |
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