The Best Oyster Sauce Substitutes: 12 Easy and Tasty Alternatives

Finding the right oyster sauce substitute can be tricky, especially when a recipe calls for its rich, umami-packed flavor. Whether you’re out of oyster sauce, looking for a vegan or gluten-free alternative, or just want a different taste, there are plenty of substitutes for oyster sauce that work perfectly in stir-fries, marinades, and dipping sauces.

In this guide, we’ll explore 12 of the best substitutes for oyster sauce, from classic swaps like soy sauce and hoisin sauce to unique options like mushroom-based alternatives. Whether you need a quick pantry fix or a long-term replacement, you’ll find the perfect substitute to oyster sauce right here.

Let’s dive in and find the best oyster sauce alternative for your next dish

What Is Oyster Sauce?

Origin and History

Oyster sauce was accidentally created in 19th-century China by Lee Kum Sheung, who left oyster broth simmering too long. The liquid reduced into a thick, flavorful sauce, giving birth to the oyster sauce we know today. It has since become a staple in Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisine.

How Is Oyster Sauce Made?

Traditional oyster sauce is made by simmering oysters until a concentrated extract forms, then mixing it with sugar, salt, and starch for thickness. Modern versions often include flavor enhancers and soy sauce for consistency.

Common Ingredients

• Oyster extract (rich umami flavor)
• Sugar (for mild sweetness)
• Salt
• Cornstarch (for thickening)
• Soy sauce (in some commercial versions)

Vegan alternatives replace oyster extract with shiitake mushrooms or fermented beans.

Does Oyster Sauce Taste Like Worcestershire Sauce?

Not quite! While both have umami depth, they taste different:

• Oyster sauce is thick, mildly sweet, and savory—ideal for stir-fries.
• Worcestershire sauce is tangy, spicy, and more complex, made with vinegar, anchovies, and spices.

If using Worcestershire sauce as a substitute for oyster sauce, mix it with soy sauce and a bit of sugar for a closer match.

Why Would You Need a Substitute for Oyster Sauce?

Dietary Restrictions (Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free Options)

Oyster sauce is made from oyster extract, which means it’s not suitable for vegans or vegetarians. Many commercial brands also contain wheat, making them off-limits for those on a gluten-free diet. Luckily, there are plant-based and gluten-free substitutes like mushroom sauce or tamari that offer a similar umami-rich taste.

Allergies and Ingredient Preferences

Some people are allergic to shellfish, making oyster sauce substitutes essential. Others prefer to avoid artificial additives and preservatives found in many store-bought versions. Homemade alternatives like mushroom broth with soy sauce can be a healthier option.

Availability and Easy Alternatives

Oyster sauce isn’t always available in every grocery store. If you’re in a pinch, common pantry items like soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or Worcestershire sauce can work as quick substitutes. Each option has a slightly different taste, but they all bring savory depth to your dishes.

What Sauce Is Similar to Oyster Sauce?

The closest sauces to oyster sauce in texture and flavor include:

• Hoisin sauce – Thick, slightly sweet, and packed with umami.
• Soy sauce – A saltier, thinner alternative.
• Mushroom sauce – A great vegan substitute with a deep, earthy flavor.
• Fish sauce – Strong and salty, best used in small amounts.

Choosing the right substitute for oyster sauce depends on the recipe and your dietary needs!

Jump to Recipe

12 Best Oyster Sauce Substitutes for Cooking

1. Soy Sauce – The Classic Alternative

Soy sauce is one of the easiest oyster sauce substitutes because of its rich umami flavor. While it’s saltier and less sweet, it blends well in stir-fries, marinades, and dipping sauces.

Soy Sauce vs. Oyster Sauce – Key Differences:

• Soy sauce is thinner and saltier, while oyster sauce is thicker and slightly sweet.
• Both add umami, but soy sauce lacks the caramelized richness of oyster sauce.

Best Ways to Use Soy Sauce as a Substitute:

• Mix it with a bit of sugar or honey to mimic the sweetness of oyster sauce.
• Combine it with cornstarch for a thicker texture.

2. Hoisin Sauce – A Sweet and Savory Swap

Hoisin sauce has a similar thick consistency to oyster sauce, but it’s sweeter and spicier.

How Does Hoisin Sauce Compare to Oyster Sauce?

• Both are thick and packed with umami, but hoisin sauce has garlic and spices.
• For a closer match, dilute hoisin sauce with a little soy sauce or water.

Is Hoisin Sauce the Same as Oyster Sauce?
No, but it’s one of the best substitutes for oyster sauce, especially in stir-fries and glazes.

3. Fish Sauce – A Strong, Umami-Rich Alternative

Fish sauce has a deep umami taste, but it’s much saltier and more pungent than oyster sauce.

Is Oyster Sauce Just Fish Sauce?
No. While both have a savory, seafood-based flavor, oyster sauce is sweeter and thicker, while fish sauce is saltier and more liquid.

How to Balance Fish Sauce When Using It as a Substitute:

• Mix it with a bit of sugar to balance the saltiness.
• Use small amounts to avoid overpowering the dish.

4. Mushroom Sauce – A Vegan-Friendly Substitute

Mushroom-based sauces are the best vegan alternative to oyster sauce, offering a deep umami flavor.

How to Make a Homemade Oyster Sauce Substitute with Mushrooms:

• Simmer shiitake mushrooms, soy sauce, and a touch of sugar until thickened.

Best Recipes Using Mushroom Sauce:

• Vegetable stir-fries
• Tofu marinades
• Asian-inspired soups

5. Worcestershire Sauce – A Unique Twist

This sauce has complex flavors with tangy and savory notes, making it a creative substitute for oyster sauce.

Taste and Texture Comparison:

• Worcestershire sauce is more acidic and less sweet than oyster sauce.
• It works best when mixed with soy sauce and a bit of sugar.

Can Worcestershire Sauce Replace Oyster Sauce?
Yes, but it’s best for marinades and dressings rather than stir-fries.

6. Teriyaki Sauce – A Slightly Sweet Alternative

Teriyaki sauce is another good substitute, offering a balanced mix of sweet and savory flavors.

How to Adjust Teriyaki Sauce for Recipes:

• Reduce the sugar content if the dish is already sweet.
• Use less teriyaki sauce than oyster sauce to avoid overpowering flavors.

7. Tamari – A Gluten-Free Option

Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce with a slightly richer, smoother taste.

Why Is Tamari a Good Substitute for Oyster Sauce?

• It has a deep umami flavor similar to oyster sauce.
• Mix it with a bit of sugar and cornstarch for the best results.

8. Sweet Soy Sauce (Kecap Manis)

This Indonesian sauce is thicker, sweeter, and darker than regular soy sauce, making it a great oyster sauce alternative.

9. Black Bean Paste – A Bold and Savory Choice

Black bean paste has a fermented, umami-rich flavor, perfect for stir-fries.

How to Use Black Bean Paste in Stir-Fries:

• Mix it with a little sugar to balance the saltiness.
• Use small amounts, as it has a stronger taste than oyster sauce.

10. Miso Paste – A Rich, Fermented Option

Miso paste adds depth and umami but has a stronger, more fermented taste.

How Miso Enhances Flavor in Dishes:

• Mix it with a bit of soy sauce and sugar for a closer match to oyster sauce.
• Works well in soups, glazes, and marinades.

11. Coconut Aminos – A Soy-Free Alternative

Coconut aminos is a gluten-free, soy-free alternative with a slightly sweeter, milder taste.

How Does Coconut Aminos Mimic the Umami of Oyster Sauce?

• It provides a similar depth of flavor but is less salty.
• Works well in stir-fries, dipping sauces, and marinades.

12. DIY Oyster Sauce Substitute

• For a homemade oyster sauce substitute, try this easy DIY recipe:
• Shiitake mushrooms (or mushroom broth)
• Soy sauce or tamari
• A touch of sugar and cornstarch for texture

Simmer everything until thickened, and enjoy a perfect alternative to oyster sauce!

How to Choose the Best Substitute for Your Recipe

When selecting an oyster sauce substitute, consider flavor, texture, and dietary needs. Some alternatives offer a similar umami depth, while others work better in specific dishes like stir-fries, marinades, or dipping sauces.

Key Factors to Consider

🔹 Flavor Profile – Do you need something salty, sweet, or umami-rich?
🔹 Texture – Oyster sauce is thick and glossy; some substitutes may need thickening agents.
🔹 Dietary Restrictions – Are you looking for a vegan, gluten-free, or soy-free option?

Best Oyster Sauce Substitutes for Different Dishes

For Stir-Fries – Hoisin sauce, mushroom sauce, or soy sauce (with a touch of sugar).
For Marinades – Worcestershire sauce, fish sauce, or coconut aminos.
For Dipping Sauces – Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) or black bean paste.

What Is the Best Substitute for Oyster Sauce?

The best substitute for oyster sauce depends on your recipe and preference:

• Closest match? → Hoisin sauce or vegetarian mushroom sauce
• Gluten-free? → Tamari or coconut aminos
• Soy-free? → Coconut aminos or homemade mushroom sauce
• Vegan? → Mushroom sauce, miso paste, or black bean paste

Final Tip: If a substitute is too thin, mix in cornstarch for a thicker consistency!

FAQs

What Can I Substitute for Oyster Sauce?

There are several great substitutes for oyster sauce, depending on your needs:

• Best all-around option: Hoisin sauce or mushroom sauce
• For a salty umami flavor: Soy sauce or fish sauce
• Vegan choice: Mushroom sauce or black bean paste
• Gluten-free alternative: Tamari or coconut aminos

What Ingredients Are in Oyster Sauce?

Traditional oyster sauce is made from oyster extracts, sugar, salt, and soy sauce, thickened with cornstarch. Some commercial versions also contain MSG or preservatives for added flavor.

Can I Use Soy Sauce Instead of Oyster Sauce?

Yes, but since soy sauce is thinner and saltier, you may need to:

• Add a bit of sugar to mimic oyster sauce’s mild sweetness.
• Mix it with cornstarch to thicken it for stir-fries and glazes.

What Is the Difference Between Oyster Sauce and Fish Sauce?

• Oyster sauce is thicker, slightly sweet, and less salty, with a caramelized umami taste.
• Fish sauce is thin, salty, and intensely savory, made from fermented fish.

If using fish sauce as a substitute for oyster sauce, balance it out with a bit of sugar to soften the saltiness.

Want to expand your kitchen skills? Try these easy, flavorful sauces:

Sichuan Peppercorn Sauce

Lemon Pepper Sauce

Why settle for store-bought when you can make a rich, umami-packed oyster sauce right at home? With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a flavorful, homemade alternative perfect for stir-fries, marinades, and dipping sauces. Give it a try and elevate your cooking!

Ready to get started? Gather your ingredients and make your own oyster sauce today!