Traditional oyster sauce is made from oyster extracts, so it’s not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. However, there are vegetarian and vegan versions available in the market that use mushrooms or other plant-based ingredients to mimic the flavor of oysters. Can I use oyster sauce as a substitute for soy sauce or vice versa? There are many good oyster sauces out there, but which ones are the best? We decided to find out by tasting 12 of them.

If you are allergic to soy, this could be a blessing, as it makes for an excellent replacement. Try Jap Chae with Lee Kum Kee Oyster Sauce instead of soy sauce and see the significant difference in taste for yourself. MSG and Preservatives: Some oyster sauce brands may contain monosodium glutamate (MSG) and other preservatives to enhance flavor and prolong shelf life. Some people may maintain sensitivities to these additives, leading to headaches, dizziness, or stomach upset. If you're concerned about these ingredients, opt for brands free of MSG and preservatives.

Which brands of oyster sauce are the best?

In Thai cuisine, it’s a member of what I call "the trinity of Thai sauces.” Along with soy sauce and fish sauce, it’s a staple in every Thai kitchen, and many people use it daily. The Origin Story Source of Vitamins and Minerals: The oyster sauce is rich in essential minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. It also contains traces of vitamins A and C. These micronutrients contribute to maintaining bone health and supporting general well-being. Once opened, oyster sauce should be kept in the fridge as it will get moldy at room temperature. However, if you go to Thailand, you’ll see most people keep their oyster sauce at room temperature despite it saying “refrigerate after opening” on the label. Oyster sauce is a pantry staple in Asian families for its versatility,” Hung says. “Whether used as a marinade, or as a seasoning along with stir-fried recipes, oyster sauce steps up the flavour of your dishes in one simple action.”

This post will discuss everything you need to know about oyster sauce, including what it is, how to use it, and which brand is the best after tasting them straight up and in a stir fry! To see the oyster sauce taste test in action, complete with my reaction and full analysis, be sure to watch the video! The four brands of oyster sauce for our taste test. What is oyster sauce and what does it taste like? In a small bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Set aside. Yet, what is this magical brown sauce? Is it actually made of, well, oysters? And how can one start deploying it at home? The brand also offers different flavors of oyster sauce such as garlic oyster and mushroom oyster sauces. Between the two, mushroom sauce is more popular.

Is the grocery store stuff made of oysters too?

Price is a good indicator of quality. Given that you are at the same store, the more expensive the brand, the more oyster extract is probably in the sauce, and the higher quality it likely is. Keep in mind that unlike fish sauce, bottle size varies significantly so you might need to do some math. Always opt for brands that offer authentic flavors. The origin of the sauce can often indicate its authenticity; for instance, sauces from Thailand or Hong Kong are often considered more genuine. Ingredients Oyster sauce features primarily in Cantonese cooking, but Chinese chefs in other regions also prize it for its umami-enhancing capabilities. While each brand has its unique characteristics, it’s the exploration and experimentation with these sauces that make cooking such a joy for me.

The oyster sauce works well with various other ingredients, including soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and fish sauce. Feel free to mix and match different seasonings to create a unique and flavorful dish. For instance, you can combine oyster sauce with ginger, garlic, and sesame oil for a delicious Asian-inspired marinade. In a wok or large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Different oyster sauces have unique tastes, ranging from sweet to salty. It's essential to choose a flavor profile that complements the dishes you intend to cook, whether it's a stir-fry or a seafood dish. Sodium ContentWhile all three are popular Asian condiments, oyster sauce is made from oyster extracts and has a sweet, savory, and slightly briny flavor. Soy sauce is made from fermented soybeans and has a salty and umami taste. As for the taste, oyster sauce doesn’t actually taste strongly of oysters but it does have the same undertones of the briny umami taste of oysters. From its name, you may think it tastes of the ocean but in fact, it’s much less funky than say, fish sauce. Instead, it’s salty, sweet, and savory and really an essential pantry item that enhances the flavor and appearance of just about any dish. How Is It Used? Last but not least, Dragonfly Premium oyster sauce offers a luxurious and indulgent culinary experience for those seeking the finest product available. Made with select, premium oysters, this velvety and rich sauce adds an unmistakable depth of flavor to your dishes. A sauce made from oysters may sound a little bit scary, but it is actually quite mild, and adds a blast of flavor and umami to dishes.

Protein content on the nutrition label is also a good general guideline of how much oyster extract is in the bottle. But keep in mind that the serving size on the nutritional information can vary between brands, so again, be prepared for some math. Always store oyster sauce in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat. Make sure to refrigerate it after opening and use it within the recommended time frame to maintain its flavor and quality. Finding the Ideal Ratio in Recipes In case you're allergic to oyster sauce or looking for a new twist on your favorite recipes, these alternatives may come in handy. 1. Soy sauce It’s significantly sweeter than LKK Premium Oyster Sauce, and also thinner (more pourable), which makes it more suitable as a condiment than as a cooking sauce in our opinion. It also happens to be gluten-free, if that’s important for you!As Bill’s father, a chef, used to say, “if you want to make any dish taste better, just add oyster sauce.” What is Oyster Sauce?