Substitute for Tamari

Learn how to substitute tamari in your recipes with these 6 great options that will give your dishes a similar umami flavor without sacrificing taste or health benefits.

From soy sauce to coconut aminos and mushroom sauce, there’s a substitute for everyone, no matter their dietary restrictions or preferences.  

What is Tamari

Tamari is a type of soy sauce that originated in Japan. It’s made from soybeans, salt, and water, and has a darker, richer flavor than regular soy sauce. Tamari is often used in Japanese and other Asian cuisines as a seasoning or dipping sauce. However, if you don’t have tamari in your pantry or if you’re allergic to soy, fear not! There are several substitutes you can use to achieve a similar flavor in your dishes.

Easy Substitute for Tamari

1. Soy Sauce

The most obvious substitute for tamari is regular soy sauce. Soy sauce is made from the same ingredients as tamari – soybeans, salt, and water – but is fermented differently, giving it a lighter and saltier taste. If you’re not too concerned about the difference in flavor, you can use soy sauce instead of tamari in equal amounts in your recipes.

2. Liquid Aminos

If you’re looking for a gluten-free substitute for tamari, liquid aminos are a great option. Liquid aminos are made from non-GMO soybeans and water, and are free of wheat and gluten. They have a similar flavor to tamari, but are lighter and saltier. You can use liquid aminos in the same amount as tamari in your recipes.

3. Worcestershire Sauce

Another option for a tamari substitute is Worcestershire sauce. If you are vegan or vegetarian, you NEED to make sure you purchase the Vegan option. Worcestershire sauce is made from a blend of vinegar, molasses, anchovies, and various spices. While it doesn’t have the same soy flavor as tamari, it does have a similar umami flavor and can be used in equal amounts in your recipes. Just keep in mind that Worcestershire sauce contains anchovies, so it’s not a good option for vegetarians or vegans.

4. Miso Paste

If you have miso paste in your pantry, you can use it as a substitute for tamari. Miso paste is made from fermented soybeans and has a rich, salty flavor. It’s often used in Japanese cuisine as a seasoning for soups, marinades, and sauces. To use miso paste as a substitute for tamari, mix it with water until it reaches a similar consistency, and use it in equal amounts in your recipes.

5. Coconut Aminos

For those who are looking for a soy-free, gluten-free, and low-sodium tamari substitute, coconut aminos are a great option. Coconut aminos are made from the sap of coconut trees and have a slightly sweet, slightly salty flavor. They’re also low in sodium and contain amino acids, making them a healthier alternative to tamari. You can use coconut aminos in the same amount as tamari in your recipes.

6. Mushroom Sauce

Finally, mushroom sauce is another option for a tamari substitute. Mushroom sauce is made from dried mushrooms, soy sauce, and various spices. It has a rich, umami flavor that’s similar to tamari, but with a slightly earthy taste from the mushrooms. To use mushroom sauce as a substitute for tamari, use it in equal amounts in your recipes.

Other Substitute Articles

On our site, we share a variety of ingredient substitutions for those times when you’re missing a key ingredient for a recipe. From simple swaps to more creative solutions, these articles will help you make the most of what you have on hand in your pantry and fridge. Be sure to check out:  Substitutions for Parsnips, Substitution for Mint, Substitute for Cremini Mushrooms, Substitution for Chili Oil and more common substitutions.

What substitute for tamari will you try?

There are several tamari substitutes you can use if you don’t have tamari on hand. Soy sauce, liquid aminos, Worcestershire sauce, miso paste, coconut aminos, and mushroom sauce are all great options that will give your dishes a similar flavor to tamari. Just remember to adjust the amount of salt in your recipe accordingly, as some of these substitutes may be saltier than others. Happy cooking!