Out of Oyster Sauce? Try These 5 Easy Swaps
Run out of oyster sauce mid-recipe? No worries. We've got 5 tried-and-tested substitutes that actually work. Whether you're making a quick weeknight dinner or baking something special, these alternatives will save your dish. The most popular swap is hoisin sauce, which works great in cooking and savory dishes. Each substitute below includes exact measurements and tips so you know exactly what to do.
⚡ Quick Answer (30 sec read)
Use Hoisin sauce instead. Use 1:1 ratio. Sweeter, less salty.
✅ 5 Tested Oyster Sauce Substitutes (With Exact Ratios)
1. Hoisin sauce
CookingUse 1:1 ratio. Sweeter, less salty.
2. Soy sauce + sugar + cornstarch
CookingMix 2 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tsp sugar + ½ tsp cornstarch. Simmer until thick.
3. Worcestershire sauce
CookingUse ¾ amount. Different flavor but similar umami.
4. Fish sauce + sugar
CookingMix 1 tbsp fish sauce + ½ tsp sugar for 1 tbsp oyster sauce.
5. Mushroom soy sauce
CookingUse 1:1 ratio. Vegetarian option, similar umami.
Tips for Substituting Oyster Sauce
When cooking without oyster sauce, taste as you go and adjust seasoning. Most substitutes work best when added at the same point in the recipe as the original ingredient. Don't be afraid to combine two substitutes for a closer match to the original flavor.
What NOT to Do When Substituting Oyster Sauce
- xDon't use the same amount without checking the ratio - some substitutes are stronger or weaker than oyster sauce.
- xDon't substitute in recipes where oyster sauce is the star ingredient - the difference will be too noticeable.
- xDon't combine multiple substitutes at once - pick one and adjust from there.
Quick Substitution Ratios
| Substitute | Amount for 1 cup Oyster Sauce | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Hoisin sauce | Use 1:1 ratio | cooking |
| Soy sauce + sugar + cornstarch | Mix 2 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tsp sugar + ½ tsp cornstarch | cooking |
| Worcestershire sauce | Use ¾ amount | cooking |
| Fish sauce + sugar | Mix 1 tbsp fish sauce + ½ tsp sugar for 1 tbsp oyster sauce | cooking |
Safety Tips
- 1.Always check for allergies - if someone is allergic to oyster sauce, they may also react to certain substitutes like nut-based alternatives.
- 2.When baking, substitutes can affect rising and texture. Test with a small batch first if making for an important occasion.
- 3.Check expiration dates on substitutes - using fresh ingredients ensures the best flavor and food safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for oyster sauce?
The best substitute for oyster sauce is Hoisin sauce. Use 1:1 ratio. Sweeter, less salty. This works well in most recipes that call for oyster sauce.
Can I use hoisin instead of oyster sauce?
Yes, hoisin sauce is an excellent substitute for oyster sauce. Use 1:1 ratio. Sweeter, less salty.
What can I use instead of oyster sauce in cooking?
For cooking, try: Hoisin sauce, Soy sauce + sugar + cornstarch, Worcestershire sauce. These substitutes work well in savory dishes, sauces, and everyday cooking.
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