What Is Soy Sauce?
Soy sauce is a dark, pourable sauce made by fermenting soybeans and usually roasted wheat with salt and special cultures and microorganisms over a long period. It is one of the most essential seasonings in East and Southeast Asian cuisines.
Fermentation gives it a salty, deep, full flavor known as umami. Varieties include light (thin and salty) and dark (thick and mildly sweet); classic types made with wheat contain gluten, while some types, such as tamari, may be gluten-free.
Soy Sauce Nutrition Facts
Soy sauce is low in calories, at about 53 kcal per 100 milliliters, but very high in sodium; it also contains some protein. People who need to limit sodium should be careful; low-sodium varieties are also available.
How to Use Soy Sauce
Because soy sauce is very salty, use a small amount and taste the dish before adding more salt. People with a soy allergy or gluten sensitivity should check the ingredient label for wheat.
This is general information; soy sauce is a food, not a medical treatment.
How to Choose Soy Sauce
Good soy sauce is naturally fermented and has a simple ingredient list and a clear, dark color. Choose light or dark, low-sodium, or gluten-free (tamari) varieties according to your needs; check the ingredient label.
- Choose a naturally fermented variety.
- Choose light or dark according to your needs.
- Check the label for sodium and gluten.
How to Store Soy Sauce
Unopened soy sauce keeps for a long time in a cool, dark place; after opening, store it sealed in the refrigerator to preserve its aroma. Its high salt content acts as a natural preservative, though its flavor and color may change over time.
Using Soy Sauce in the Kitchen
Soy sauce is most often used in stir-fries, marinades, noodle and rice dishes, soups, dips, and meat and chicken dishes. Because it provides both salt and umami, add it in moderation before adding extra salt.
What Is the Difference Between Light and Dark Soy Sauce?
Light soy sauce is thinner and saltier and adds flavor without much color; dark soy sauce is thicker, mildly sweet, and adds color. Both can be used together when a dish needs both flavor and color.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does soy sauce contain gluten?
Classic soy sauce usually contains wheat and therefore gluten, but gluten-free varieties such as tamari are available. People with gluten sensitivity should check the label.
Why is soy sauce so salty?
A large amount of salt is used in fermentation, so soy sauce is naturally high in sodium; salt contributes both flavor and preservation. Low-sodium varieties are available.
Does soy sauce spoil?
Its high salt content helps it keep for a long time; even so, its aroma and color change over time after opening. Store it sealed in the refrigerator to preserve its quality.