Best Vegetarian Fish Sauce Substitutes | Vegan & Gluten-Free Options
The best substitute for fish sauce (vegetarian) is Soy Sauce at a 1:1 ratio. It works best for stir-fries, marinades, dipping sauces. There are 4 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Soy Sauce
1:1
Provides saltiness and umami but lacks fish sauce's funky depth. Mix with a pinch of sugar for better balance.
What are the other substitutes for fish sauce (vegetarian)?
Coconut Aminos
1:1.25 (use slightly more)
Gluten-free, soy-free option with mild umami. Less salty than fish sauce, so adjust seasoning accordingly.
Mushroom Sauce
1:1
Dark mushroom-based sauce provides earthy umami similar to fish sauce. Check labels for gluten content.
Seaweed + Soy Sauce
1 sheet nori steeped in 1/4 cup soy sauce
Adds oceanic flavor to soy sauce for closer approximation. Steep dried seaweed 30 minutes, then strain.
Liquid Aminos
1:1
Gluten-free soy sauce alternative with similar umami and saltiness. Works well in most fish sauce applications.
What should you know before substituting fish sauce (vegetarian)?
For the closest vegetarian fish sauce substitute, combine soy sauce with a small amount of seaweed and a pinch of sugar. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to develop complexity before using. Store in the refrigerator for up to a month.
How do you substitute fish sauce (vegetarian) in a recipe?
Fish sauce is a pungent, salty, umami-rich fermented liquid essential to Southeast Asian cooking. While traditionally made from fish, vegetarian cooks seek plant-based alternatives that deliver similar savory depth to soups, stir-fries, and dipping sauces.
The best substitute for fish sauce (vegetarian) depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Soy Sauce (1:1), which works well for stir-fries, marinades, dipping sauces.
If you need a different option, Coconut Aminos (1:1.25 (use slightly more)) is another reliable choice. Gluten-free, soy-free option with mild umami. Less salty than fish sauce, so adjust seasoning accordingly.
When substituting fish sauce (vegetarian), consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good vegetarian substitute for fish sauce?
Soy sauce is the most common substitute, used in equal amounts. For closer flavor, steep a sheet of dried seaweed in soy sauce for 30 minutes to add oceanic depth. Coconut aminos work for gluten-free needs.
Can I use soy sauce instead of fish sauce?
Yes, use soy sauce in a 1:1 ratio for fish sauce. Add a pinch of sugar to balance the saltiness. For more complex flavor, mix soy sauce with dried seaweed or mushroom powder.
Is there vegan fish sauce?
Yes, several brands make vegan fish sauce from seaweed, mushrooms, and fermented soybeans. You can also make your own by steeping dried seaweed in soy sauce or using mushroom-based sauces.