Substitutes for Fish Sauce

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Pungent, salty fermented fish liquid essential in Thai, Vietnamese, and other Southeast Asian cuisines.

Can't find Fish Sauce in your kitchen? No problem! Below are 5 tested substitutes with exact ratios, perfect for baking, cooking, and everything in between.

Substitute Ratio Best For Dietary
Soy Sauce 1:1 replacement stir-fries, dipping sauces, soups
Vegan
Coconut Aminos 1:1 replacement + pinch of salt stir-fries, marinades, dressings
Vegan Gluten-Free Soy-Free
Soy Sauce + Lime Juice 1 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tsp lime juice per 1 tbsp fish sauce Thai dishes, dipping sauces, soups
Vegan
Worcestershire Sauce 1:1 replacement marinades, soups, stews
Miso Paste 1 tbsp miso + 1 tbsp water per 1 tbsp fish sauce soups, marinades, sauces
Vegan

How to Use

Less pungent, no fishy flavor but same saltiness and umami.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for Fish Sauce?
The best substitute depends on your recipe, but Soy Sauce is a reliable choice for most applications. Use 1:1 replacement.
What's a vegan substitute for Fish Sauce?
Soy Sauce is an excellent vegan option. Use 1:1 replacement.
Can I use any of these substitutes interchangeably?
Most substitutes work well in their recommended use cases, but they may produce slightly different results. The notes above explain the differences and best practices.
Will the taste be affected?
Some substitutes may subtly change the flavor profile of your dish, but they'll work great in the recommended use cases. Start with the suggested ratio and adjust to your taste.