The 8 Best Soy Sauces in 2022

While soy sauce is a common component in many Asian dishes, it has recently gained popularity in Western cookery.

It’s a terrific marinade ingredient for a variety of vegetables and meats, so seeing it in everyone’s kitchen today isn’t surprising.

Whether you want to attempt a few dishes using soy sauce or just want to know the finest soy sauce brand, it might be difficult to separate them solely on their kinds as a layperson.

But don’t worry, we’re going to speak about some of the top brands in terms of flavor and value today.

Thus, the next time you’re looking for a soy sauce, be sure to choose one of our top recommendations.

Best Soy Sauce Brands to Have in Your Kitchen

1. San-J Tamari Gluten Free Soy Sauce – Best Premium Choice

This San-J Tamari Soy Sauce has more soybeans than other soy sauces that include wheat. The greatest thing is that it is devoid of gluten. As a result, it is the greatest option for persons who are gluten intolerant.

The inclusion of solely soybeans aids in organically improving food tastes. It is a healthier alternative to other chemically fermented soy sauces. It, unlike others, uses the natural fermentation process.

It works well in soups, stir-fries, sauces, and casseroles.

Pros:

• prestigious brand
• There are no artificial preservatives.
• Gluten-free and non-GMO certification

Cons:

• Before using, dilute with water if necessary.
• A distinct taste from conventional soy sauce

2. Yamaroku 4 Years Aged Kiku Bisiho Soy Sauce – Best Overall

This soy sauce has a rich, full taste and is created from soybeans, wheat, salt, and water. This real soy sauce, aged between three and five years, works best as a ramen bowl sauce. This soy sauce is aged in traditional Kioke barrels that are 100 years old.

Teriyaki and Ponzu sauces may be made using it. Nonetheless, it pairs well with seafood, such as grilled fish, sushi, and other dishes. If you like sushi, don’t forget to look at some of the finest sushi making kits.

In conclusion, if you want a soy sauce with a rich, smooth, and nuanced taste, Yamarokus Kiku Bisiho will not disappoint.

Pros:

• A high-quality sauce that has been matured for many years.
• Only natural substances are used.
• Best when combined with seafood.

Cons:

• It cannot be used as a general-purpose sauce.

3. Lee Kum Kee Premium Dark Soy Sauce – Best Budget Choice Dark Soy Sauce

Isn’t the bottle and packaging appealing? We’re sure the soy sauce on the inside is much delicious. It is also extremely reasonably priced. To obtain a deeper taste in your dishes, this soy sauce is made using more traditional processes. Gluten-intolerant persons, however, should avoid this black soy sauce since it includes wheat flour.

This black soy sauce, made in China, is non-GMO confirmed and devoid of preservatives. Use this choice if you want a balanced taste soy sauce and are not gluten-intolerant.

Pros:

• Dark soy sauce that is non-GMO and devoid of preservatives.
• Flavor balance
• Reasonably priced

Cons:

• It’s not as dark as other soy sauces.
• This product contains wheat flour and is not gluten-free.

4. Kishibori Shoyu Premium Imported Soy Sauce – Best When Used in its Raw Form

This high-quality soy sauce is often imported from Japan. The fermenting procedure distinguishes it from the competition. The fermentation takes place in a 100-year-old barrel, which adds taste.

In comparison to other sauces, it has a well-balanced, mild, and smooth flavor that makes it a fantastic complement to a variety of dishes. It solely comprises high-quality soybeans and no preservatives or chemicals. Although it may be cooked, this soy sauce is finest when consumed raw.

Pros:

• Manufactured in Japan using a proprietary fermentation technique
• artisanal item
• There are no preservatives or additives.

Cons:

• More salty in flavor

5. ABC Kecap Manis – Sweet Soy Sauce

If you’re seeking for a sweet soy sauce, look no further. This famous soy sauce originates in Indonesia. It has a significantly thicker viscosity than other soy sauce alternatives, making it ideal for marinating meats.

The sweetness comes from the addition of cane sugar; nevertheless, unlike some other brands, it does not leave a noticeable impression on the palate.

Overall, if you want a richer sweet soy sauce, this is the one to go for.

Pros:

• The consistency is thick.
• Excellent value
• Ideal for marinades

Cons:

• As a preservative, sodium benzoate is used.

6. Best of Thailand Premium Lite Soy Sauce Low Sodium – Best Kosher-Friendly Soy Sauce

This kosher-friendly soy sauce is made with no MSG and is by far the finest option. Just squeeze some into your food, and the reduced sodium (about 70% less than conventional soy sauce on the market) will do the rest.

This award-winning soy sauce comes in a package of two bottles. It includes sodium benzoate, which is used as a preservative in many soy sauces. Its adaptability, on the other hand, works well in a number of meals, including beef, sushi, grilled fish, Pad Thai, and Tom Yum.

Pros:

• a product that has won awards
• When compared to other soy sauces, this one has 70% less salt.
• Bottle that is simple to use

Cons:

• As a preservative, sodium benzoate is used.

7. Bluegrass Soy Sauce – Best Small Batch Soy Sauce

Bluegrass is the only micro-brewed soy sauce made from Kentucky produced non-GMO soybeans, soft red winter wheat, pure limestone, and spring water.

Since it is fermented in bourbon barrels, it has a smokey taste. In addition, you will notice a broth-like flavor with a little sweetness.

By fermenting the barrel for a year, you might receive increased tastes with a powerful scent. This obviously shows that the flavor is the greatest, but the quantity is a little on the pricey side.

Pros:

• Non-GMO
• Soy sauce made from scratch
• Excellent smoky flavor

Cons:

• Expensive

8. Pearl River Bridge Superior Dark Soy Sauce – Best for Commercial Use

Looking for a long-lasting soy sauce? The Pearl River Bridge is an excellent choice. It comes from a reputable brand known for producing high-quality goods. This soy sauce has a thicker consistency and is best used as a dipping sauce. The mushroom extract enhances the taste, which is another reason cooks should consider purchasing it.

Pros:

• Since it comes in a huge container, it is perfect for commercial usage.
• It’s a fantastic dip and marinade.

Cons:

• The huge container might make pouring difficult.

What Is Soy Sauce?

Soy sauce seems to be a basic ingredient, but the taste it imparts elevates the dish to another level. So, just what is soy sauce?

Soy sauce, which originated in China, is a liquid condiment made by fermenting soybeans, cereals (typically wheat), and yeast. The brewing process might take months or even years in certain situations.

What to Look for in Soy Sauce

While buying soy sauce, it is essential to consider the following factors:

No-MSG

Check to see whether the soy sauce you want to purchase contains this taste enhancer. Some people believe it is safe, but there is some debate that it can cause health problems such as headaches, weakness, and heart palpitations.

Several companies do not use MSG in their recipes, owing to the possible health hazards and difficulties linked with it. To prevent health problems, it is advisable to purchase one that does not contain MSG.

Gluten-Free

This may only be relevant to persons who are gluten intolerant. Wheat is not included in any of the soy sauces. Hence, before purchasing any soy sauce, do some research and read the label.

No Additives or Artificial Flavors

Numerous companies make soy sauce with artificial tastes or additions. Nonetheless, the substances utilized may be hazardous to one’s health. To prevent this, choose soy sauces that have no additives or artificial flavors.

Packaging

When soy sauces in glass bottles are not handled correctly, they might shatter. Plastic containers provide less of a danger.

They’re great for squeezing and can be transported in huge amounts. Packaging may not seem to be vital for flavor and quality, but it is crucial for easy handling and storage.

Versatility

Not all soy sauces are created equal. Some are ideal for marinating and dipping, while others complement foods like stir fried and Pad Thai. Thus, first determine your demand, and then choose which variety of soy sauce would best meet that need.

What Are the Different Types of Soy Sauce?

Soy sauce comes in three varieties:

1. Soy Sauce (Light) Light soy sauce is salty and thinner in consistency, which makes it popular as a dipping sauce. It is ideal for preparing Asian foods or when just a little amount of soy sauce is required.
2. Soy Sauce (Dark) Dark soy sauce is less salty and has sugar added to it. It has a thick consistency. Since it is brewed for a longer period of time, the resultant soy sauce is ideal for marinating vegetables and meats.
3. Sauce de Soja (Normal, standard, or all-purpose soy sauce) These bottles of soy sauce are simply labeled soy sauce, with no added descriptors such as mild, dark, sweet, or mushroom. It is a light sauce, but it has a somewhat stronger soy taste. But, applying it will not discolor your noodles.

Does Soy Sauce Go Bad?

Because of the salt, it takes a long time for the soy sauce to deteriorate. But, if the bottle is left open for an extended period of time or is not kept in a cold, dark area, it may deteriorate. It does not deteriorate like any other perishable food, although it might lose taste if not kept correctly.

What Are the Health Benefits of Soy Sauce?

Numerous health advantages of soy sauce are being researched, including its ability to improve gastrointestinal health while being high in antioxidants.

Does Soy Sauce Contain a Lot of Salt?

Because of the salt concentration, many individuals are hesitant to try soy sauce. If this is preventing you from using soy sauce, go for mild soy sauce.

Nonetheless, as compared to salt, the sodium concentration of soy sauce is much lower. See your doctor beforehand, particularly if you have high blood pressure or any heart-related condition.

Conclusion

Soy sauce will work its magic by providing a distinctive taste while bringing your dish to the next level, whether you use it as a dip, baste, marinate, or straight in your recipes like soups and stir-fry.

Best of Thailand is our top recommendation for a healthy soy sauce since it is low in salt. If you like a more traditional flavor, try Yamaroku Soy Sauce. It’s one of the most genuine soy sauces on the market.