Oyster Sauce
A dark, thick Chinese sauce made with oyster extract. Its sweet-salty, intensely savory umami flavor adds depth to stir-fries and sauces; it contains oyster, a shellfish allergen.
What Is Oyster Sauce?
Oyster sauce is a thick, dark brown Chinese sauce made by adding sugar, salt, and thickeners to a base of oyster extract made by boiling and reducing oysters. It has a sweet-salty, intensely savory umami flavor.
Despite its name, it does not have a pronounced “fishy” or “seafood” taste; it is more of a seasoning that adds depth and gloss to a dish. It is commonly used in Chinese and Southeast Asian stir-fries and sauces.
Oyster Sauce Nutrition Facts
Oyster sauce is used in small amounts as a seasoning; it provides about 50 kcal of energy per 100 g and contains some sugar, but it is high in sodium. People who need to limit their salt intake should use it in moderation. Values vary by brand and are approximate.
How Should You Use Oyster Sauce?
Because oyster sauce is salty and concentrated, use a small amount without adding extra salt to the dish; it is usually added near the end of cooking. Since it contains oysters (shellfish), people with shellfish allergies should not consume it. Mushroom-based alternatives are available for vegetarians.
This is general information; oyster sauce is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Oyster Sauce
Good oyster sauce has a high proportion of oyster extract, simple ingredients, and a current freshness date. Avoid products with excessive additives, unclear ingredients, or an off odor; check the allergen and sodium information on the label.
- It should have a high proportion of oyster extract.
- The ingredients should be simple, and the date should be current.
- Check the allergen and sodium information on the label.
How to Store Oyster Sauce
Store unopened oyster sauce in a cool, dark place. After opening, keep it refrigerated and tightly sealed, and use it within a reasonable time. Using a clean spoon or pouring it out cleanly helps delay spoilage.
Using Oyster Sauce in the Kitchen
Oyster sauce is most often used in wok-fried vegetables, meat, and chicken; noodles; fried rice; and dipping sauces. A small amount adds dark color, gloss, and umami depth to a dish. It is usually added near the end and cooked briefly.
What Is the Difference Between Oyster Sauce and Soy Sauce?
Soy sauce is thin, salty, and runny, while oyster sauce is thick, rich, and sweet-salty with umami. The two sauces are sometimes used together in a dish, but they differ in flavor and consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does oyster sauce taste fishy?
It does not have a pronounced fishy taste; it adds a sweet-salty, intensely savory umami flavor. However, it contains oysters, so people with an oyster allergy should take care.
Is there vegetarian oyster sauce?
Yes. Oyster-free “vegetarian oyster sauce” made from mushrooms, especially shiitake, is available and provides a similar umami flavor.
When should you add oyster sauce?
It is usually added near the end of cooking and stirred briefly; this preserves its flavor and gives the dish a glossy finish without burning it.