1 Oz Soy Sauce (Made From Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein) contains 11 calories. Soy sauce is a popular condiment made from fermented soybeans. It adds a savory umami flavor to many dishes and is often used in Asian cuisine. Despite its widespread use, soy sauce has some potential health concerns that you should be aware of.

Nutritionally, soy sauce contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, including iron, potassium, and sodium. However, it is important to note that soy sauce is high in sodium, which can lead to high blood pressure and other health issues if consumed in excess.

In this article, we'll explore the calories, ingredients, benefits, and potential health concerns associated with consuming soy sauce. We'll also provide tips on using soy sauce in recipes and as a marinade, and suggest substitutes for those who have gluten allergies.

Calories in 1 Oz Soy Sauce

If you're trying to keep your calorie intake low, soy sauce can be a good condiment choice. However, as we'll discuss later, it's important to be mindful of how much sodium you're consuming. If you're using soy sauce in a recipe, be sure to measure it accurately so that you don't accidentally add too much and increase the calorie content of the dish.

Ingredients of Soy Sauce

Not all soy sauces are made the same way, however. Some varieties may use different proportions of soybeans, wheat, or other ingredients, leading to slightly different flavors or nutritional profiles. It's also worth noting that some soy sauces may contain additional additives or preservatives, so it's important to read the label carefully if you have any specific dietary concerns.

Benefits of Soy Sauce

It's important to note, however, that many of these benefits may be associated with whole soy foods, such as tofu or soybeans, rather than soy sauce specifically. Additionally, the high sodium content of soy sauce means that it may not be the healthiest condiment choice for everyone, particularly those with high blood pressure or other health concerns.

Soy Sauce and Sodium

If you're trying to reduce your sodium intake, consider using a low-sodium soy sauce or using less soy sauce overall in your cooking and meal preparation. You can also try flavoring your food with other herbs and spices instead of relying solely on soy sauce for flavor.

Soy Sauce and Gluten

However, there are gluten-free soy sauce alternatives available that are made with alternative grains, such as rice or corn. These can be a good option if you need to avoid gluten in your diet. It's important to note that some manufacturers may use wheat-derived ingredients in their soy sauce even if they advertise it as gluten-free, so it's always a good idea to read the label carefully and check with the manufacturer if you have any doubts.

Soy Sauce and Allergies

If you're unsure whether a product contains allergens, you can also contact the manufacturer or consult a qualified healthcare professional for advice.

Soy Sauce and Umami Flavor

Umami is created by the presence of certain amino acids, such as glutamic acid, that stimulate the taste buds and enhance the flavor of foods. Soy sauce is one of the richest sources of umami flavor, which is why it's such a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine. If you're looking to add more umami flavor to your dishes, soy sauce can be a great addition. Try adding a splash of soy sauce to stir-fries, marinades, salad dressings, or soups to enhance their flavor.

Soy Sauce Recipes

- Stir-fry: Heat some oil in a pan, then add diced vegetables and a protein of your choice. Cook until tender, then add a splash of soy sauce and stir to combine. Serve over rice or noodles. - Marinade: Combine soy sauce, garlic, ginger, honey, and sesame oil in a bowl. Add your protein of choice (such as chicken, beef, or tofu) and marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling or baking. - Salad dressing: Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and a pinch of red pepper flakes in a bowl. Drizzle over a mixed green salad and enjoy!

Soy Sauce and Marinades

To reduce the overall sodium content of your marinade, consider using a low-sodium soy sauce or adding other ingredients, such as citrus juice or vinegar, to balance out the flavor. It's also important to note that marinades should always be used safely to prevent foodborne illness. Be sure to marinate meat in the refrigerator, not on the countertop, and discard any leftover marinade that has come into contact with raw meat or poultry.

Soy Sauce Substitutes

- Coconut aminos: This is a soy sauce substitute made from the sap of coconut trees. It has a similar flavor to soy sauce but is lower in sodium and contains no soy or gluten. - Tamari: Like soy sauce, tamari is made from soybeans and has a similar flavor profile. However, it's typically lower in sodium and may be gluten-free depending on the brand. - Fish sauce: While this may not be appropriate for all dishes or dietary needs, fish sauce can be a good substitute for soy sauce in some recipes. It has a salty, savory flavor and is commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine.