1 Tbsp Soy Sauce, Tamari (Shoyu) is a popular condiment used in various cuisines around the world. This versatile seasoning is renowned for its strong umami flavor and adds depth to dishes. At just 10 calories per tablespoon, it's also a healthy choice.

Soy Sauce Tamari is a type of soy sauce traditionally made in Japan. Unlike regular soy sauce, Tamari is made with little to no wheat, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. It's also lower in sodium than most other types of soy sauce.

In this article, we'll explore the different uses and benefits of Soy Sauce Tamari, along with its nutritional information and how it compares to other soy sauces.

What is Soy Sauce?

Soy sauce is a condiment made from fermented soybeans, wheat, water, salt, and koji (a type of mold). The mixture is left to ferment for several months, producing a savory brown liquid with a rich, salty flavor. Soy sauce has been used in Chinese cuisine for over 2,500 years and has since gone on to become a staple of many other Asian cuisines. It's used to enhance the flavor of stir-fries, dipping sauces, marinades, and more. There are many different types of soy sauces, each with their own unique flavor profile and uses. Tamari is one such type of soy sauce.

How is Tamari different from other Soy Sauces?

Tamari is a type of soy sauce that originated in Japan. Unlike most other soy sauces, which are made with a combination of soybeans and wheat, Tamari is made with little to no wheat. This means that Tamari has a stronger, more concentrated flavor and is a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Tamari is also lower in sodium than most other types of soy sauce. Tamari is particularly well-suited for use in marinades, dipping sauces, and dressings. It's also a great choice for seasoning vegetables and meats, particularly for dishes with a Japanese or Korean flavor profile.

Nutritional Information of Soy Sauce Tamari

Soy Sauce Tamari contains a variety of essential nutrients, including iron, magnesium, and potassium. It's also low in calories, with just 10 calories per tablespoon. However, Tamari is relatively high in sodium, with around 700 milligrams per tablespoon. This means that it should be used in moderation, particularly for those following a low-sodium diet.

Soy Sauce health benefits

Soy Sauce Tamari contains a number of health benefits due to its high concentration of essential amino acids, antioxidants, and other nutrients. Research has shown that soy sauce may help to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease. Its high antioxidant content may also boost the immune system and protect against certain types of cancer.

Soy Sauce for cooking

Soy Sauce Tamari is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of cuisines and dishes. It's particularly well-suited for use in Japanese, Korean, and Chinese cooking, but can also add depth to dishes in other cuisines. Soy Sauce Tamari can be used as a seasoning for stir-fries, veggies, and meats, or as a marinade for fish, chicken, and beef. It's also a key ingredient in many dipping sauces and dressings.

Soy Sauce for seasoning

Soy Sauce Tamari is a fantastic seasoning for a wide variety of dishes, from stir-fries to roasted vegetables. Its rich, savory flavor adds depth and complexity to dishes without overpowering other flavors. When seasoning with Soy Sauce Tamari, start with a small amount and add more as needed. It's a concentrated ingredient, and a little goes a long way.

Soy Sauce as a marinade

Soy Sauce Tamari is a popular choice for marinades, particularly for fish, chicken, and beef. Its strong umami flavor complements the natural flavors of the meat, while its saltiness helps to tenderize and flavor the meat. To make a simple Soy Sauce Tamari marinade, combine Soy Sauce Tamari with garlic, ginger, honey, and sesame oil. Marinate the meat for at least an hour (or overnight, for best results) before cooking as desired.

Soy Sauce for dipping sauce

Soy Sauce Tamari is a key ingredient in many dipping sauces, particularly those used in Japanese and Korean cuisine. Its strong umami flavor adds depth to the sauce, while its saltiness complements the flavors of the other ingredients. To make a simple Soy Sauce Tamari dipping sauce, combine Soy Sauce Tamari with rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil. Serve with sushi, spring rolls, or other Asian-inspired dishes.

Soy Sauce umami flavor

Soy Sauce Tamari is renowned for its strong umami flavor. Umami is one of the five basic tastes (the others being sweet, sour, salty, and bitter) and is often described as 'savory' or 'meaty'. Umami is particularly well-suited to Japanese and Korean cuisine, where it's used to add depth and complexity to dishes. Soy Sauce Tamari is a key ingredient in many umami-rich dishes, including ramen, sushi, and stir-fries.

Soy Sauce as a preservative

Soy Sauce Tamari has been used as a traditional preservative for centuries, particularly in Japan and China. Its high salt content helps to preserve meat, fish, and other foods, making it an important pantry staple in many households. While modern refrigeration has largely eliminated the need for preserving foods with Soy Sauce Tamari, it remains a popular ingredient in many traditional dishes.