Gluten-Free Soy Sauce and Liquid Aminos are both cooking condiments used to add umami flavor to dishes without gluten, with the former being a wheat-free variant of soy sauce and the latter a lower-sodium alternative rich in amino acids.
Gluten-Free Soy Sauce is a variant of traditional soy sauce, designed for those avoiding gluten. It's made from a combination of soybeans, water, and salt, and sometimes other grains like rice instead of wheat, offering the same rich, savory flavor typical of regular soy sauce.
Liquid Aminos is a seasoning sauce made from non-GMO soybeans and purified water. It is similar to soy sauce but with a distinct profile, containing a range of amino acids. It's gluten-free and often used as a healthier alternative to traditional soy sauce.
The main differences lie in their production process, taste, and sodium content. Gluten-Free Soy Sauce often has a flavor closer to traditional soy sauce but without wheat, while Liquid Aminos have a milder taste with a slightly sweeter undertone. Liquid Aminos typically contain less sodium and offer a broader spectrum of amino acids.
Best used in traditional stir-fries like beef and broccoli or vegetable stir-fry. It provides the expected soy sauce flavor without gluten, enhancing the dish's savory notes. Use it as you would regular soy sauce. Ideal for a lighter, healthier stir-fry such as a tofu and quinoa stir-fry. Adds umami without overpowering the dish and keeps it gluten-free. Start with small amounts and adjust to taste.
Use in marinades for meats like chicken or pork to impart a deep, rich flavor reminiscent of traditional soy sauce-based marinades, suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Great for a lighter marinade for fish or vegetables, offering a subtle umami kick without the heaviness. Its lower sodium content is also an advantage for more health-conscious recipes.
Excellent for robust, Asian-inspired dressings, pairing well with sesame oil and ginger, giving salads a bold flavor without the gluten. Perfect for a light, nutritious salad dressing, especially when mixed with olive oil and lemon. Its milder taste and health benefits make it a go-to for health-conscious individuals.
You can substitute one for the other in most recipes, but expect a slight change in flavor and saltiness. Liquid Aminos are sweeter and less salty, so you may need to adjust other seasoning components to achieve the desired taste.
Both Gluten-Free Soy Sauce and Liquid Aminos are lower in wheat allergens and suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
| Nutrient | Liquid Aminos ( per Tablespoon ) | Gluten-Free Soy Sauce ( per Tablespoon ) |
|---|---|---|
| Fat | 0g | 0g |
| Sodium | 320mg | 900mg |
| Protein | 2g | 1g |
| Calories | 15 | 10 |
| Carbohydrates | 3g | 1g |
Yes, they can be used interchangeably in most recipes, but due to taste and sodium content differences, you may need to adjust amounts and other seasonings.
Liquid Aminos are often considered healthier due to their lower sodium content and presence of a wider range of amino acids.
Yes, Gluten-Free Soy Sauce is made without wheat and should be safe for those with gluten intolerances or celiac disease.
No, Liquid Aminos are made from soy and are not suitable for a soy-free diet.
Gluten-Free Soy Sauce allows individuals with gluten sensitivities to enjoy the rich flavor of soy sauce without the gluten, making it easier to cook traditional recipes safely.
