This iconic whiskey is a "Jack of all trades" when it comes to cooking. Toss it in some pasta, as a savory dipping sauce, and even bake it into something sweet.
Make Your Own Low Sodium Soy Sauce Substitute
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This soy substitute is great if you're gluten free or just trying to cut down on the salt. This recipe gives you all the umami with none of the sodium.
serves/makes:
ready in:
under 30 minutes
under 30 minutes
3 reviews
2 comments
ingredients
2 tablespoons sodium-free beef bouillon granules
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon molasses
1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
1 dash black pepper
1 dash garlic powder
3/4 cup water
directions
Combine the bouillon granules, vinegar, molasses, ginger, pepper, garlic powder, and water in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil and the bouillon granules are dissolved.
Let the sauce simmer until it is reduced down to 1/2 cup.
Remove the pan from the heat and let cool. Store the low sodium soy sauce substitute in the refrigerator in a covered container for up to 1 month. Stir before using.
Use in any recipe calling for soy sauce.
recipe tips
If the sauce is too thin after reduction, simmer it for a few more minutes to reach the desired thickness.
A drop of sesame oil can be added for more flavor.
Cool the sauce completely before storing it in the refrigerator.
This substitute can be a great base for creating flavored soy sauces like teriyaki or hoisin by adding additional ingredients.
Shake or stir the sauce before each use as the ingredients may settle over time.
To add to the umami flavor, add a small piece of dried kelp or a few dried shiitake mushrooms while simmering, then remove before storing.
Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
Adjust the seasonings as desired, adding more ginger or garlic powder if needed.
This sauce is a healthier option not only for low sodium diets but also for those watching their overall soy intake.
common recipe questions
Can I use chicken bouillon instead of beef?
Yes, you can use sodium-free chicken bouillon for a different flavor, but it won't have the same taste as soy sauce.
Is there a vegetarian or vegan alternative to the bouillon?
For a vegetarian or vegan version, use a sodium-free vegetable bouillon. Again, it won't have the same flavor as soy sauce but it will work as an alternative.
Can I omit the molasses?
Molasses adds spice and a hint of sweetness. If omitted, the flavor won't be as rich, but you can substitute it with dark brown sugar.
How can I make this sauce gluten-free?
Make sure that the bouillon granules you're using are gluten-free. Most are, but it's always good to check.
What can I use this sauce for?
Use it as a 1:1 substitute in any recipe that calls for soy sauce, like marinades, stir-fries, and dipping sauces.
tools needed
Saucepan: For combining and heating the ingredients over medium-high heat until they come to a boil.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring the ingredients like sodium-free beef bouillon granules, water, red wine vinegar, and molasses.
Spoon: A spoon for stirring the ingredients in the saucepan to make sure the bouillon granules dissolve completely.
Covered Container: For storing the low sodium soy sauce substitute in the refrigerator after it has cooled, to keep it fresh for up to a month.
what goes with it?
Marinated Grilled Chicken: Use the soy sauce substitute to marinate chicken before grilling. The umami from the bouillon enhances the chicken's flavor without the extra sodium.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Add the sauce into a stir-fry with your choice of vegetables. The flavor complements a variety of veggies.
Beef Teriyaki: Use the substitute in a homemade teriyaki sauce for beef, combining it with a little sweetener and sesame oil. It provides a rich flavor without the added salt.
Dipping Sauce for Spring Rolls: Mix the sauce with a touch of sesame oil and lime juice to create a dipping sauce.
Glazing for Roasted Tofu: Brush tofu with the low sodium soy sauce substitute before roasting to create a flavorful glaze. The sweetness from the molasses will add a nice caramelization.
Accompaniment for Asian Noodle Bowls: Drizzle the sauce over Asian-style noodle bowls to add flavor without the high sodium content.
Flavoring ingredient for Marinades: Use the substitute as a base for marinades for beef, chicken, or vegetables.
Egg Fried Rice: Add the low sodium soy sauce substitute when preparing fried rice. It brings out the flavors without making the dish overly salty.
nutrition data
7 calories, 0 grams fat, 1 grams carbohydrates, 0 grams protein per tablespoon. This recipe is low in sodium. This recipe is low in fat.
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reviews & comments
Like some other's, I am on a low sodium diet. Good stuff 👍 Still checking the recipes, nice ideas. Will be spending a lot of time here, thanks. 🌹
Watch out for the high potassium in the beef bouillon - especially if you have any kidney issues!
January 16, 2020
This is terrific! My husband must limit his sodium and really hates most substitutes. Loved this on fried rice.
July 1, 2018
I have been making this for years! My husband had high blood pressure and I needed to find low sodium options
January 2, 2018
I could not find the sodium free beef bouillon granules so used the regular beef bouillon. I only used 2 teaspoon of it and tasted it before adding any more. I did end up using twice as much spices, but tasted it before adding the second time around. I like it a lot better than the store bought kind and will be making it again. I have to watch my salt intake.