Worcestershire sauce is a commonly used ingredient used to add a savory umami or background flavor to a variety of dishes. This sauce is commonly added to stews, sauces, tomato-based sauces, and many other recipes.
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What is Worcestershire sauce?
Invented by pharmacists John Wheeley Lea and William Henry Perrins, this fermented condiment originated in Worcestershire, England. They eventually formed the company Lea & Perrins, which is still around today. Worcestershire sauce is usually made with anchovies, sugar, tamarind, vinegar, onion, garlic, and spices.
What does Worcestershire sauce taste like?
Worcestershire sauce is a salty blend of tangy, savory, umami, and sweet flavors. It is similar to soy sauce, but not exactly the same. It is a thin brown sauce. The flavor pairs well with mushrooms, eggplant, tomato, and cheese.
How to use Worcestershire sauce in your cooking
Use your vegan Worcestershire substitute as a marinade for tofu or vegetables with fresh herbs and spices. As part of salad dressings for a delightful main course salad with a punchy umami flavor. Or you can add a dash to your favorite tomato-based soup.
Best vegan substitutes for Worcestershire sauce
Worcestershire sauce is hard to replicate, but these vegan Worcestershire substitutes do their best job of it!
1. Soy Sauce (or Tamari sauce)
Soy sauce or Tamari sauce is also a fermented thin brown sauce, which also gives it a strong umami flavor. It is a really good flavor match to Worcestershire sauce. When using this vegan Worcestershire sauce substitute, replace in a one-to-one ratio. For example, for every tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, substitute with one tablespoon of soy or tamari sauce.
2. Balsamic Vinegar
Balsamic vinegar is a good substitute with a complex flavor profile. It is thicker with a deep brown coloring. Balsamic vinegar is a bit on the sweet side. If your recipe calls for a lot of Worcestershire sauce, consider another substitute or reduce the overall sweetness of the dish through other ingredients in the recipe. This is also substituted on a 1:1 ratio.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar + Brown Sugar
You can use a combination of apple cider vinegar and brown sugar as another vegan Worcestershire substitute. You can also use other types of vinegar like malt vinegar, white vinegar, or rice vinegar.
First, in a small bowl, combine equal amounts of apple cider vinegar and brown sugar. Stir well to combine completely. Proceed to substitute by a 1:1 ratio.
4. Miso Paste
Miso paste is a thicker fermented soybean alternative that brings the umami flavor to the table with a salty-sweet balance. Use a red or yellow miso, as the white miso is too sweet.
Mix equal parts water and miso paste to create a thinner liquid version of the miso paste. Use this vegan Worcestershire sauce substitute in equal parts as a 1:1 ratio to substitute with Worcestershire sauce.
5. Store-bought Vegan Worcestershire Substitute
If you are planning ahead and have time on your hands, then pick up or order a bottle of premade Vegan Worcestershire Sauce from the store or your online retailer of choice. These substitutes are made with some of the ingredients mentioned here. This is also used in a 1:1 ratio.
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