5 Vegetarian Replacements That Sub for Fish Sauce

Vegetarian substitute for fish sauce has become a hot topic among plant-based food enthusiasts looking to maintain authentic flavors in their cooking.

This savory condiment plays such an essential role in many Asian cuisines that finding alternatives feels necessary for anyone embracing a meat-free lifestyle.

Several innovative options now exist that capture similar umami depth without any animal products.

Most alternatives combine fermented ingredients with salt to mimic the complex flavor profile of traditional fish sauce.

These substitutes can transform ordinary vegetarian dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences with just a few drops.

The market for these plant-based alternatives continues to grow as more people adopt vegetarian diets while still craving familiar tastes.

After reading about these fantastic options, you might never miss the original version in your favorite recipes again.

Vegetarian-Friendly Fish Sauce Alternatives

Vegetarian-friendly fish sauce alternatives offer savory umami depth without seafood. Plant-based options bring boldness to dishes. Plenty of swaps can keep recipes flavorful and ethical.

Soy Sauce

Soy sauce, a beloved Chinese condiment, offers rich umami flavor through its fermented blend of soybeans, toasted grain, brine, and specific Aspergillus molds.

Many cooks appreciate how it provides a perfect vegetarian alternative to fish sauce in various recipes.

The three main varieties- light, dark, and normal- each serve different culinary purposes in the kitchen.

Light soy sauce adds seasoning without overwhelming the dish or darkening its color, while dark soy sauce contributes both deep color and intense flavor.

For those needing a substitute, fish sauce works perfectly at a 1:1 ratio in most recipes requiring this versatile ingredient.

Tamari

Tamari, a fermented soybean sauce from Japan, offers a richer flavor profile and firmer texture than Chinese soy sauce, which makes it perfect for dipping.

Most versions contain only water, salt, and miso paste with soybeans, giving you a naturally gluten-free and vegan alternative to traditional soy sauce.

Simply pour it straight from the bottle to add salt, umami depth, and extra nutrients to your meals without worrying about wheat ingredients.

For best results, always check the label to confirm it's completely gluten-free since some varieties might contain traces of wheat.

Vegan Fish Sauce

Vegan fish sauce serves as an essential condiment in numerous Asian cuisines, adding remarkable depth and umami flavor to dishes like ramen, noodles, and other sauces.

Many people rely on common ingredients such as shiitake mushrooms, liquid aminos, and soy sauce to create this plant-based alternative.

The substitution works perfectly in a one-to-one ratio, making it incredibly easy to adapt traditional recipes without compromising on taste.

This salty, flavorful replacement allows everyone to enjoy authentic Asian flavors while maintaining a completely plant-based diet.

Even skeptics are often surprised by how closely these alternatives mimic the complex taste profile of traditional fish sauce.

Coconut Aminos

Fish sauce substitutes offer exciting alternatives for those avoiding traditional ingredients.

Coconut aminos, derived from fermented coconut sap, provide a robust umami flavor while remaining gluten-free, vegan, and soy-free.

The slightly darker color and tastier profile compared to traditional fish sauce make it stand out in various cuisines.

Many chefs appreciate its lower sodium content when health considerations are important.

For most recipes, a simple 1-to-1 replacement ratio works perfectly, allowing easy adaptation of favorite dishes without complicated measurements or adjustments.

Seaweed

Seaweed stands out as a nutrient-dense food packed with glutamate, the amino acid responsible for that distinctive umami flavor we crave in savory dishes.

Many Japanese and Korean chefs regularly incorporate seaweed into their soups and stews to enhance depth and complexity of taste.

Fresh seaweed works wonderfully as a fish sauce substitute in salads, soups, and homemade sauces, adding a subtle oceanic quality without overpowering other ingredients.

Dried versions can be easily crushed and sprinkled into almost any recipe when you need that extra umami boost without the fishy undertones.

Is Vegetarian Fish Sauce as Salty as the Traditional Version?

Vegetarian fish sauce substitutes aim to replicate the salty, umami-rich profile of traditional fish sauce, but their saltiness can vary depending on the ingredients and preparation. Many vegetarian versions use soy sauce, tamari, seaweed, or fermented beans, which provide a similar level of saltiness but often with a milder or differently balanced flavor.

Some vegetarian fish sauces might be less salty overall but compensate with added umami from mushrooms, seaweed, or fermented ingredients to achieve depth and complexity. Others are formulated to match the salt content closely, making them effective one-to-one replacements in recipes.

If you’re substituting vegetarian fish sauce for traditional fish sauce, it’s a good idea to start with a slightly smaller amount and adjust to taste, especially if you’re sensitive to salt levels.

DIY Vegan Fish Sauce

You can make vegan fish sauce right at your kitchen with these ingredients:

• 2 cups water
• 3-4 dried shiitake mushrooms
• 2-3 pieces dried kombu or 1 tablespoon wakame
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon miso paste
• 1-2 teaspoons brown or palm sugar
• Optional: 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or a squeeze of lime

Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine water, mushrooms, and seaweed.

Step 2: Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes to extract flavor.

Step 3: Remove from heat and stir in soy sauce, miso paste, and sugar until dissolved.

Step 4: Taste and adjust with vinegar or lime juice if you want a tangier profile.

Step 5: Strain out solids and store the liquid in a clean jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Note: To make it gluten-free, you can use tamari instead of soy sauce.

When You Need a Vegetarian Fish Sauce Substitute

Fermented foods are essential in fish sauce substitutes because they provide that deep, savory umami flavor that fish sauce naturally delivers.

The fermentation process breaks down proteins into amino acids like glutamate, which enhances taste and adds complexity.

Without fermentation, it’s challenging to mimic the rich, pungent, and slightly salty profile of traditional fish sauce in vegetarian, vegan, or allergy-friendly alternatives.