5 Best Soy Sauce Substitutes for French Toast

Quick tip: Tamari is slightly less salty and smoother, which blends well without overpowering the French toast batter.

Tamari is a Japanese soy sauce variant that is typically gluten-free and has a richer, less salty profile compared to regular soy sauce. It provides the essential umami and saltiness needed to enhance the custard base of French toast without adding bitterness or excessive salt.

When using tamari, start with a slightly reduced amount and adjust to taste, as it can be more concentrated. Ensure it is well mixed into the egg and milk mixture to maintain a smooth batter.

The final French toast will have a subtle savory depth that complements the sweetness, closely mimicking the flavor balance achieved with soy sauce but with less risk of gluten contamination.

Quick tip: Coconut aminos are sweeter and less salty, which can add a mild caramel note to the French toast.

Coconut aminos are derived from fermented coconut sap and provide a soy-free, gluten-free alternative with a naturally sweet and umami-rich flavor. This makes it suitable for French toast where a gentle sweetness can enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the custard.

Because it is less salty than soy sauce, you may need to slightly increase the amount or add a pinch of salt to balance the batter. Mix thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution.

The resulting French toast will have a softer umami presence with a hint of sweetness, making it a good alternative for those avoiding soy or gluten.

Quick tip: Liquid aminos are similar in saltiness but have a slightly different flavor profile that is less fermented and more neutral.

Liquid aminos are a protein concentrate derived from soybeans but are less processed than traditional soy sauce, offering a milder umami and salty flavor. This makes them suitable for French toast as they add depth without overwhelming the sweet custard.

Use slightly less than the soy sauce called for to avoid excess saltiness. Stir well into the batter to maintain a uniform texture.

French toast made with liquid aminos will have a subtle savory note that complements the dish, though it may lack some of the complexity of traditional soy sauce.

Quick tip: Using reduced-sodium soy sauce lowers salt impact, preserving the balance of sweet and savory in the French toast.

Reduced-sodium soy sauce provides the same umami and flavor profile as regular soy sauce but with less salt, which is beneficial in French toast to avoid overpowering the sweet custard mixture.

It can be used in a 1:1 ratio, but taste testing is recommended to ensure the flavor balance is maintained. Mix thoroughly to prevent uneven salt distribution.

The final product will closely resemble traditional soy sauce French toast but with a milder saltiness, making it more palatable for those sensitive to salt.

Quick tip: Bragg liquid aminos are a popular soy-based seasoning with a lighter, less fermented taste suitable for French toast.

Bragg liquid aminos are made from soy protein and provide a salty, umami flavor similar to soy sauce but with a cleaner, less intense taste. This makes them a reasonable substitute in French toast to add depth without overwhelming sweetness.

Use sparingly and mix well to avoid clumping. Adjust salt levels in the recipe accordingly.

The French toast will have a mild savory note that complements the egg custard, though it may be less complex than traditional soy sauce.