Best Dark Soy Sauce Brands (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the best dark soy sauce brands, then you’re in the right place. Dark soy sauce is an essential ingredient in Asian cooking, and it can be used in various dishes to add flavor and color. However, with so many different brands and varieties out there, it can be challenging to choose the right one. In this article, we’ll explore some factors to consider when buying dark soy sauce and provide you with some simple questions that can help you find the best one for your needs.
When considering which brand of dark soy sauce to buy, there are a few vital factors to keep in mind. First, think about the saltiness level. Some brands are saltier than others, which can affect the overall flavor of your dish. Also, consider the thickness of the sauce. Some brands are thicker than others, which can affect how it cooks and how it adheres to your food. Finally, think about the color. Some brands are darker than others, which can affect the aesthetics of your final dish.
Now, here are some questions to ask yourself when choosing the best dark soy sauce brand for you. Do you prefer a sweeter or saltier sauce? Are you looking for a thick or thin consistency? Would you like a sauce with a more robust flavor or a milder one? Do you prefer a dark or light color? Answering these questions can help you narrow down your options and find the perfect dark soy sauce brand for your needs.
10 Best Dark Soy Sauce Brands
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
Ideal for enhancing Asian-inspired dishes with authentic, premium quality soy sauce that is naturally barrel aged without preservatives.
|
|
|
|
2
|
 |
It is ideal for seasoning dishes with a rich umami flavor, commonly used in Japanese cuisine.
|
|
|
|
3
|
 |
The product is an all-purpose seasoning with no added preservatives, ideal for cooking and flavoring various dishes.
|
|
|
|
4
|
 |
Ideal for enhancing flavors in cooking and as a dipping sauce, made with pure natural ingredients and aged for a year.
|
|
|
|
5
|
 |
Ideal for adding rich, umami flavor to stir-fries, marinades, dipping sauces, and various Asian dishes.
|
|
|
|
6
|
 |
Ideal for adding sweetness and depth of flavor to stir-fries, marinades, dipping sauces, and Asian-inspired dishes.
|
|
|
|
7
|
 |
It is ideal for adding rich umami flavor to various dishes, including stir-fries, marinades, and soups.
|
|
|
|
8
|
 |
This product is ideal for enhancing and flavoring food dishes, particularly those of Asian cuisine.
|
|
|
|
9
|
 |
Ideal as a premium dark sweet soy sauce for gourmet cooking, aged for 4 years in traditional barrels.
|
|
|
|
10
|
 |
Ideal for adding rich umami flavor to Asian dishes like stir-fry, sushi, marinades, and dipping sauces.
|
|
1. Artisanal Barrel-Aged Japanese Soy Sauce, Preservative-Free (Kishibori)
The Kishibori Shoyu is a premium Japanese soy sauce that comes in a single bottle of 24 fluid ounces. This soy sauce is imported and fermented in 100-year-old cedar barrels for a year, making it a truly artisanal product.
Unlike any other soy sauce, the Kishibori soy sauce is well-balanced, with a unique flavor profile that is best enjoyed raw with seafood or any dish of your choice. Its rich and clean flavor is attributed to the absence of preservatives and alcohol, making it a healthier option for those who want to enjoy the benefits of soy sauce without compromising on taste.
The Kishibori Shoyu is not only delicious but also has impressive nutritional benefits. Soy sauce is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and potassium. This makes it a great addition to any diet and a perfect seasoning for a wide range of dishes.
Whether you are a foodie, a health-conscious individual, or someone who simply enjoys a good soy sauce, the Kishibori Shoyu is an excellent choice. Its premium quality, unique flavor, and health benefits make it a standout product that is worth trying. With the convenience of a single 24 fluid ounce bottle, you can enjoy this artisanal soy sauce at home or share it with friends and family.
2. Yamaroku Soy Sauce Tsuruhishio-Kikuhishio (500ml) Each One Of The Two Packed Set [Parallel Import]
Introducing Tsuruhishio Restock Soy Sauce, a premium product with a rich history dating back 150 years. Yamaroku Soy Sauce Inc. is the proud maker of this historic soy sauce, which has garnered a loyal following among celebrities and food enthusiasts alike.
What sets Tsuruhishio Restock Soy Sauce apart is its natural production process, ensuring a pure and authentic flavor that is hard to come by in other soy sauces. There are no artificial ingredients or additives used in the making of this product, which makes it a healthier option for those who are conscious of what they consume.
The fifth-generation owner, Yasuo Yamamoto, continues to uphold the tradition of his forefathers by using only the finest soybeans, wheat, and salt to create this exceptional soy sauce. The result is a product that is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from marinades and dressings to stir-fries and soups.
Tsuruhishio Restock Soy Sauce comes in a sleek and convenient bottle, making it easy to use and store. Its parameters are carefully measured to ensure consistent taste and quality with every use. It is also worth noting that this product is gluten-free, making it ideal for those with dietary restrictions.
3. Kikkoman's All-Natural Soy Sauce – 1 Gallon
Kikkoman Traditionally Brewed Soy Sauce is an all-natural condiment that is carefully prepared using a centuries-old fermentation process. It is made from a blend of simple ingredients including water, soybeans, wheat, and salt. The result is a complex flavor, delicate aroma, and a beautiful reddish-brown color that perfectly complements and intensifies the natural flavor, aroma, and color of foods without masking or overpowering them.
This soy sauce is highly versatile and can be used to enhance the flavor of a wide variety of menu items, including Asian cuisines like sashimi, tofu, sushi, and beyond. It can also be used as a marinade or baste for meats, poultry, seafood, and vegetables, providing a rich flavor enhancer that is sure to satisfy.
Kikkoman Traditionally Brewed Soy Sauce is made in the U.S. to exacting quality standards, ensuring that each bottle contains only the highest quality ingredients. It is free of artificial flavors and is non-fat. The sauce is made using a traditional fermentation process and does not contain any chemical seasonings, delivering only genuine flavor in every drop.
This soy sauce is a powerful brand that can help build your quality image as a tabletop condiment. It comes in a simple, minimalist bottle that adds an impressive look to your kitchen. Taste the difference and experience America's #1 soy sauce*, based on U.S. sales data during the 52-week period ending 4/23/22.
The Kikkoman Traditionally Brewed Soy Sauce 1 Gallon Bottle is 5.16 x 6.7 x 11.28 inches in size and weighs 9.89 pounds. It is an easy-to-use condiment that simplifies home cooking by providing a selection of real Asian sauces. The bottle is leak-proof, making it convenient to store and use.
4. Barrel-Aged Japanese Soy Sauce: Pure Artisan Flavor
Introducing Artisan Soy Sauce – Kishibori, a premium Japanese soy sauce that is sure to elevate any dish. This soy sauce is carefully crafted and imported from Japan, ensuring the highest quality and authenticity.
Kishibori Shoyu is fermented in 100-year-old barrels on a small island located in Japan's inland sea, adding to its unique flavor profile. It is a testament to the traditional Japanese soy sauce making process, which has been perfected over centuries.
Experience the difference in taste with Kishibori Soy Sauce. Its full and robust flavor will add depth to any dish, making it a great addition to any food. The soy sauce also boasts a smooth and balanced taste, setting it apart from other soy sauces on the market.
Kishibori Soy Sauce has a milder, fuller flavor than most soy sauce, making it a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. It blends seamlessly with other flavors and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
5. Pearl River Bridge Mushroom Flavored Superior Dark Soy Sauce
This 16.9 fluid ounce bottle of soy sauce by Pearl River Bridge is a top-rated choice for soy sauce enthusiasts. This versatile condiment is a staple in many kitchens and can be used to add flavor to a wide variety of dishes, from stir-fries to marinades.
Pearl River Bridge is a well-known and highly respected brand in the soy sauce industry, and this product lives up to their reputation for quality. Made in China, this soy sauce has a rich, savory flavor that can enhance the taste of any dish it is added to.
The bottle is conveniently sized for easy storage in your pantry or refrigerator. It features a screw-top lid that ensures freshness and prevents spillage. The packaging is also designed with a sleek and simple look that will complement any kitchen decor.
This soy sauce is made with only the finest ingredients and contains no added preservatives. It is gluten-free and suitable for vegans and vegetarians. With its deep, complex flavor, this soy sauce is a must-have for any home cook or professional chef.
6. Healthy Boy Thai Sweet Soy Sauce (White Label) 33oz
This high-quality cooking ingredient is made using only select soybeans, salt, and sugar through a modern process, ensuring consistency and exceptional taste. With its thick and sweet consistency, it boasts a rich, molasses-like flavor that is sure to elevate any dish.
A must-have for any Thai cuisine enthusiast, this versatile ingredient is perfect for cooking Pad See Ew, a popular Thai stir-fried noodle dish. It adds a unique depth of flavor to any recipe and is sure to impress even the most discerning palate.
This product is proudly made in Thailand, where it is crafted using only the finest ingredients and traditional methods. With its exceptional taste and quality, it is sure to become a staple in any kitchen.
7. Pearl River Bridge Superior Dark Soy Sauce, Mushroom, 60 Ounce
This resealable food service pack is perfect for chefs and restaurants looking to elevate their eggroll game. Weighing in at 60.58 oz, this container is generously sized to accommodate large-scale cooking needs.
Crafted with the professional chef in mind, this food service pack is easy to use and features a resealable container to ensure freshness and prolong shelf-life.
Whether you're a seasoned chef or a budding home cook, this food service pack is perfect for creating delicious and authentic eggrolls. With its ample size and convenient packaging, you'll have enough eggroll filling to feed a crowd or stock up your freezer.
So why not take your eggroll game to the next level and try this food service pack today? Your taste buds – and your patrons – will thank you.
8. Yamasan's 500-Day Aged Soy Sauce
This artisanal soy sauce is a must-try for all foodies out there! Made with the utmost care and attention to detail, this authentic Koikuchi soy sauce boasts a rich and smoky flavor that is sure to elevate any dish. What sets it apart from other soy sauces is its unique smoking process, which takes a remarkable 8-9 hours to complete. By smoking the soy sauce slowly and naturally with different tree varieties like oak, beech, and Sakura, the sauce achieves an appetizing aroma that is both finely balanced and highly savory.
Unlike other soy sauces that contain additives, this artisanal soy sauce is made using only the simplest ingredients. The brewery naturally and slowly brews the sauce for over 500 days, allowing the umami flavors of the ingredients to fully develop. The aging process takes place over six seasons, which is equivalent to one-and-a-half years in Japan. The result is a soy sauce with a deep and rich flavor that is truly authentic.
Crafted entirely by hand, this exclusive soy sauce is a testament to the skills of the Japanese craftsmen who have perfected the traditional methods over the past century. The brewery employs a natural and eco-friendly method to produce this soy sauce, much like cultivating organic vegetables by hand. The quality and flavor of the sauce are directly affected by the climate and geography of the region, making each batch unique.
The brewery selects only the finest ingredients for this soy sauce, carefully selecting the best cultivating places in Japan for soybeans and wheat. The soybeans and wheat are Non-GMO and blended with delicate precision, depending on the year's conditions. The brewery uses 100% natural sun-dried sea salt for the sauce, and the water used in the process is sourced from the pure Ibo River, which is known for its super-soft water.
The TATSUNO brand has a rich history dating back over 400 years. The small brewery is located in the Tatsuno region, which is renowned for its ideal climate for soy sauce brewing throughout the year. The region is blessed with distinctive water from the pure river and fine soybeans and wheat, making it one of the three most prosperous places for soy sauce brewing in Japan.
9. Tsuru Bisiho Dark Sweet Soy Sauce
Experience the authentic taste of soy sauce with Tsurubishio, the flagship series of soy sauce by Yamaroku. This soy sauce is brewed and aged for 4 years using ancient methods in 100-year-old Kioke wooden barrels. The result is a pure, sweet and salty soy sauce without any added preservatives, artificial coloring, or fillers.
Tsurubishio is known for its rich, mellow flavor that is perfect for sushi, sashimi, tofu, grilled fish, and as a secret ingredient for original dishes. It is aged the longest among Yamaroku's soy sauce series, with an aging period of 3-5 years. You can easily dispense the soy sauce from the glass container bottle that comes with an easy-to-open dispenser.
The flavor of Tsurubishio is unique and can be best described as having a deep, full-rounded flavor that contains a balanced taste of umami. It is versatile and can be used as an ingredient to make Ponzu and Teriyaki sauce or in ramen bowls. You can even use it in unusual ways, such as adding it to vanilla ice cream to give it a caramel flavor.
Tsurubishio is made with simple ingredients of soybeans, wheat, salt, and water, making it the purest soy sauce on the market. It has no added preservatives or artificial coloring, making it a healthier option for those who are conscious about their diet.
10. Yamaroku 4 Years Aged Kiku Bisiho Soy Sauce, 18 Ounce
This premium soy sauce is carefully made in Japan using the ancient method of brewing and aging for four years in Kioke wooden barrels. The resulting flavor is rich, mellow, and unique.
This soy sauce is a versatile ingredient that can be used as a dip for sushi, sashimi, and grilled fish. It can also be used as a secret ingredient in various dishes to enhance their flavors. It adds depth and complexity to soups, marinades, and stir-fry dishes.
One of the unique uses of this soy sauce is with vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of this soy sauce on top of the ice cream gives it a caramel flavor that is sure to impress your taste buds.
This soy sauce is made with high-quality ingredients and is free from artificial additives and preservatives. It is a gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegan-friendly product.
The bottle comes in a convenient size that is easy to store and use. It is a perfect addition to any kitchen, and its rich flavor will elevate any dish it is used in.
Best Dark Soy Sauce Brands FAQs
Are there any gluten-free dark soy sauce brands available?
Yes, there are several gluten-free dark soy sauce brands available in the market. Gluten-free soy sauce is made with alternative ingredients and processes to ensure that it doesn't contain any gluten. Some popular gluten-free dark soy sauce brands include San-J Tamari Gluten-Free Soy Sauce, Kikkoman Gluten-Free Soy Sauce, Coconut Secret Coconut Aminos Soy-Free Seasoning Sauce, and Ohsawa Organic Gluten-Free Tamari Soy Sauce.
It's important to note that not all soy sauce is gluten-free, as it's traditionally made with wheat. Therefore, it's essential to read the label carefully before purchasing any soy sauce to ensure that it's gluten-free. Gluten-free dark soy sauce can be used as a substitute for traditional dark soy sauce in recipes, and it offers a similar flavor profile.
Overall, if you're following a gluten-free diet, you can still enjoy the rich umami flavor of dark soy sauce with the many gluten-free options available in the market.
Are there any organic dark soy sauce brands available?
Yes, there are several organic dark soy sauce brands available in the market. One of the popular organic dark soy sauce brands is Kishibori Shoyu, which is made from organic soybeans and wheat, and is aged in cedar barrels. This soy sauce has a rich, complex flavor and is perfect for dipping, marinades, and stir-fry dishes.
Another organic dark soy sauce brand is Ohsawa Organic Nama Shoyu, which is made from organic whole soybeans and mountain spring water, and is naturally aged for four years. This soy sauce has a deep, full-bodied flavor and is perfect for sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes.
Other organic dark soy sauce brands include San-J Organic Tamari Soy Sauce, which is made from organic soybeans and has a rich, savory flavor, and Coconut Secret Coconut Aminos, which is made from organic coconut sap and has a slightly sweet and salty taste.
Overall, organic dark soy sauce brands offer a healthier and more natural alternative to conventional soy sauce, while still providing the same great taste and versatility in cooking.
What are the differences between dark soy sauce brands?
Dark soy sauce is an essential ingredient in many Asian cuisines, especially Chinese cooking. It’s a thick, syrupy sauce that adds a distinct color, flavor, and aroma to dishes. However, there are several dark soy sauce brands available in the market, and each one has its own unique characteristics.
One of the main differences between dark soy sauce brands is the brewing process. Some brands are made using a traditional brewing method that involves fermenting soybeans and wheat with water and salt for several months, while others use a chemical process that speeds up the fermentation.
Another difference is the ingredients used. Some brands may add molasses, caramel, or other sweeteners to enhance the flavor and color, while others may use different types of soybeans or wheat.
The aging process also affects the taste and color of the sauce. Some brands are aged for a longer time, which results in a darker color and a more intense flavor.
It’s important to note that the differences between dark soy sauce brands are subtle and may not be noticeable to the average consumer. Ultimately, the choice of brand comes down to personal preference and the specific recipe being used.
What are the most popular dark soy sauce brands in Asia?
Dark soy sauce is a staple ingredient in Asian cuisine and is widely used in marinades, stir-fries, and dipping sauces. There are several popular dark soy sauce brands in Asia, each with their own unique flavor profiles and characteristics.
One of the most popular brands is Lee Kum Kee, which is based in Hong Kong and has been producing soy sauce for over 130 years. Their dark soy sauce is known for its rich and complex flavor and is often used in braised dishes.
Another popular brand is Kikkoman, which is a Japanese company that has been producing soy sauce for over 300 years. Their dark soy sauce is made with a special brewing process that gives it a sweeter and milder flavor compared to other brands.
In China, a popular brand of dark soy sauce is Pearl River Bridge. Their soy sauce is made using traditional methods and is aged for up to six months to develop its deep color and complex flavor.
Other notable brands include Kimlan from Taiwan, ABC from Indonesia, and Healthy Boy from Thailand. Each brand has its own unique flavor profiles and characteristics, and the choice of brand often comes down to personal preference and regional availability.
What are the top-rated dark soy sauce brands?
Dark soy sauce is a staple ingredient in many Asian dishes, providing both flavor and color to a wide variety of foods. Some of the top-rated dark soy sauce brands include Lee Kum Kee, Kikkoman, and Pearl River Bridge.
Lee Kum Kee is a popular brand known for its high-quality soy sauce and other Asian condiments. Their dark soy sauce has a rich, complex flavor and is perfect for marinades, stir-fries, and dipping sauces.
Kikkoman is another well-known brand that has been producing soy sauce for over 300 years. Their dark soy sauce has a deep, savory flavor and is great for adding depth to soups and stews.
Pearl River Bridge is a Chinese brand that is widely regarded as one of the best soy sauce makers in the world. Their dark soy sauce has a slightly sweet flavor and is perfect for adding color and depth to meat and vegetable dishes.
Ultimately, the best dark soy sauce brand will depend on personal taste and the specific dish being prepared. It's always a good idea to experiment with different brands and find the one that best suits your needs.
What is the best dark soy sauce brand for cooking stir-fries?
When it comes to cooking stir-fries, the choice of soy sauce can make a significant difference in the taste and appearance of the dish. There are many brands of dark soy sauce available in the market, but choosing the right one can be a daunting task. In my opinion, the best dark soy sauce brand for cooking stir-fries is Lee Kum Kee.
Lee Kum Kee is a well-known brand that has been producing soy sauce for over a century. Their dark soy sauce has a rich, savory flavor and a dark color, which is perfect for adding depth and complexity to stir-fries. It also has a thicker consistency than regular soy sauce, which helps to coat the ingredients evenly.
Moreover, Lee Kum Kee's dark soy sauce is made from high-quality ingredients and contains no artificial colors or preservatives. It is also widely available in most grocery stores and online retailers at an affordable price. Overall, if you want to enhance the flavor and appearance of your stir-fries, I highly recommend using Lee Kum Kee dark soy sauce.
What is the best dark soy sauce brand for marinades?
When it comes to dark soy sauce brands for marinades, there are several good options available in the market. However, one of the best dark soy sauce brands for marinades is Lee Kum Kee Premium Dark Soy Sauce. This brand has a rich, deep flavor and a thicker consistency than regular soy sauce, making it perfect for marinades. It is also less salty than other brands, so it won't overpower the other flavors in your marinade.
Another great option is Kikkoman's Dark Soy Sauce. It has a milder taste than Lee Kum Kee's, but it still has a rich, savory flavor that is perfect for marinades. It is also less expensive than some other brands, making it a great choice if you are on a budget.
Ultimately, the best dark soy sauce brand for marinades will depend on your personal taste preferences and the specific recipe you are using. It's always a good idea to experiment with different brands and find the one that works best for you.
Which dark soy sauce brand do professional chefs prefer?
When it comes to dark soy sauce, professional chefs have their own preferences based on their culinary needs and personal tastes. However, there are a few leading brands that are highly regarded in the industry.
One of the most popular brands favored by professional chefs is Pearl River Bridge (PRB) dark soy sauce. PRB is a Chinese brand that has been around for more than 60 years and is known for its high quality and consistency. PRB dark soy sauce has a rich, complex flavor that is perfect for marinades, braises, and stir-fries.
Another brand that is highly recommended by professional chefs is Kikkoman. Kikkoman is a Japanese brand that has been producing soy sauce for more than 300 years. Their dark soy sauce has a deep, savory flavor that adds depth and complexity to dishes. It is ideal for use in dishes that require a strong umami flavor, such as stews, soups, and gravies.
Other notable brands that are popular among chefs include Lee Kum Kee, Higashimaru, and Yamasa. Ultimately, the choice of which brand to use depends on personal preference and the specific dish being prepared.
Which dark soy sauce brand has the most intense flavor?
There are various brands of dark soy sauce in the market, and each brand has a unique flavor profile. However, in terms of intense flavor, the Lee Kum Kee brand of dark soy sauce is considered one of the best. It has a rich, deep, and robust flavor that adds a unique depth to any dish. The Lee Kum Kee brand is made using a traditional brewing method that involves fermenting the soybeans for an extended period, resulting in a more concentrated and intense flavor. Another brand that is known for its intense flavor is the Koon Chun brand, which is also popular among chefs and home cooks. It's essential to note that the intensity of the soy sauce flavor may vary depending on the recipe and the amount used. So, it's best to taste-test and adjust accordingly to achieve the desired flavor intensity.
Which dark soy sauce brand is the best value for money?
There are several brands of dark soy sauce available in the market, and the best value for money depends on personal preference and budget. However, one brand that stands out in terms of quality and affordability is Kikkoman.
Kikkoman is a well-known brand that has been producing soy sauce for over 300 years. Their dark soy sauce has a rich and robust flavor that adds depth to any dish. It is made from high-quality soybeans and wheat, which are brewed and aged for several months to develop its signature taste.
What sets Kikkoman apart is its affordability. Despite its premium quality, it is reasonably priced, making it an excellent value for money. Additionally, it is widely available in most grocery stores and online retailers, making it convenient for consumers to purchase.
Overall, Kikkoman dark soy sauce is a reliable and cost-effective option for those looking for a high-quality soy sauce that won't break the bank.
