Are you on the Whole30 diet and wondering if tamari soy sauce is compliant? Or maybe you’re just looking for a gluten-free alternative to traditional soy sauce.
Whatever your reason, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’ll explore what tamari is, how it differs from other soy sauce substitutes like coconut aminos, and whether or not it’s Whole30-friendly.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of tamari soy sauce.
Is Tamari Soy Sauce Whole30?
The short answer is no, tamari soy sauce is not Whole30-compliant. This is because most tamari sauces contain either sugar or alcohol, which are not allowed on the Whole30 diet.
For those who may not be familiar with the Whole30 diet, it’s a 30-day program that focuses on whole, unprocessed foods while eliminating potentially inflammatory foods such as grains, dairy, legumes, and added sugars.
While tamari is a great gluten-free alternative to traditional soy sauce, it’s important to note that not all tamari sauces are created equal. Some brands may contain wheat or other additives that are not Whole30-compliant.
If you’re following the Whole30 diet and looking for a soy sauce substitute, there are other options available such as coconut aminos or homemade soy sauce substitutes made with ingredients like apple cider vinegar and coconut aminos.
What Is Tamari Soy Sauce?
Tamari soy sauce is a Japanese sauce made from fermented soybeans. It originated as a by-product of miso paste, which is also made from soybeans. Tamari is typically made in Japan’s Mie, Aichi and Gifu prefectures and in the Kyushu area. The biggest difference between tamari and other soy sauces is that most soy sauces are brewed with wheat or other grains, which adds some gluten content to the final product, but tamari is either entirely gluten-free or contains trace amounts under 10%. Both tamari and standard soy sauce are made from soybeans, but tamari is mostly derived just from the beans. The higher concentration of soybeans in tamari gives it a slightly smoother taste and darker color, and it’s more salty, since it’s missing the subtle sweetness offered by wheat. Tamari is a little thicker and less salty than traditional soy sauce, which has a thinner consistency and leaves a burst of salt on the tongue. It’s important to note that not all tamari sauces are Whole30-compliant, as some brands may contain sugar or alcohol.
Tamari Vs. Traditional Soy Sauce
When it comes to choosing between tamari and traditional soy sauce, there are a few key differences to consider. While both sauces are made from fermented soybeans, tamari is typically made with little to no wheat, making it a great option for those who are gluten-free. Traditional soy sauce, on the other hand, is usually made with a combination of soy and wheat.
In terms of flavor, tamari tends to have a richer, deeper taste compared to traditional soy sauce. This is because tamari undergoes a longer fermentation process than most varieties of soy sauce, allowing the soy and salt to become well incorporated and resulting in a smoother taste and deeper umami flavor. Soy sauce, on the other hand, tends to have a sharper flavor and more pronounced bite.
Another difference between tamari and traditional soy sauce is their viscosity. Tamari is generally thicker than soy sauce, which can be attributed to its longer fermentation time. This thickness can be beneficial when using tamari as a marinade or dipping sauce.
While both tamari and traditional soy sauce can be used in a variety of dishes, it’s important to note that not all tamari sauces are Whole30-compliant due to added sugars or alcohol. If you’re following the Whole30 diet and looking for a soy sauce substitute, it may be best to opt for coconut aminos or homemade soy sauce substitutes made with Whole30-approved ingredients.
Tamari Vs. Coconut Aminos
When it comes to choosing between tamari and coconut aminos as a soy sauce substitute, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and dietary restrictions.
Tamari is a byproduct of miso paste and is made without added roasted wheat, making it a great gluten-free alternative to soy sauce. It has a bolder flavor profile than coconut aminos and is thicker in texture. Tamari is ideal for dishes that require a stronger umami flavor, such as gyoza or fried rice.
On the other hand, coconut aminos are made from coconut tree sap and do not contain soy or gluten, making them a popular ingredient on the paleo, keto, and Whole30 diets. Coconut aminos have a milder flavor profile than tamari and are more versatile in their use. They can be used in soups, sauces, marinades, and other dishes where a lighter flavor is desired.
It’s worth noting that coconut aminos are not completely salt-free and should still be consumed in moderation. However, they are lower in sodium than both soy sauce and tamari.
Ultimately, the choice between tamari and coconut aminos comes down to personal taste preferences and dietary restrictions. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative that still has the umami flavor of soy sauce, tamari may be your best bet. However, if you’re looking for an allergy-friendly option that is also lower in sodium, coconut aminos may be the way to go.
Is Tamari Soy Sauce Whole30 Compliant?
Tamari soy sauce is not Whole30-compliant due to the presence of sugar or alcohol in most tamari sauces. The Whole30 diet eliminates foods with added sugars, alcohol, soy, grains, dairy, and legumes. It’s important to check the labels of tamari sauces to ensure that they do not contain any non-compliant ingredients. While tamari is a great gluten-free alternative to traditional soy sauce, those on the Whole30 diet may need to find other options such as coconut aminos or homemade soy sauce substitutes. It’s essential to be mindful of ingredients when following any specific dietary program to ensure compliance and achieve desired results.
Health Benefits Of Tamari Soy Sauce
Tamari soy sauce offers several health benefits that make it a great addition to any diet. Firstly, tamari contains less sodium per serving compared to traditional soy sauce, making it a healthier option for those watching their salt intake. It is also high in vitamin B3, manganese, and tryptophan, all of which provide numerous benefits to the body.
Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, is essential for maintaining healthy skin, nerves, and digestion. It also plays a role in converting food into energy and can help lower cholesterol levels.
Manganese is important for bone health and helps the body metabolize carbohydrates and protein. It also acts as an antioxidant, protecting the body from harmful free radicals.
Tryptophan is an amino acid that is necessary for the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and sleep. It also helps the body produce niacin and supports the immune system.
Additionally, tamari soy sauce is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. It also aids in the digestion of fruits and vegetables, making it a great addition to plant-based diets.
Cooking With Tamari Soy Sauce
If you’re not following the Whole30 diet and looking to incorporate tamari soy sauce into your cooking, it’s important to understand its flavor profile and how it differs from traditional soy sauce.
Tamari is a Japanese soy sauce that is made with little to no wheat, giving it a richer, smoother and less salty flavor than traditional soy sauce. It’s also gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
When cooking with tamari, it’s important to keep in mind that it can still be quite salty, so use it sparingly until you’ve found the right balance for your taste buds. Tamari is great for adding depth of flavor to stir-fries, marinades, and sauces. It can also be used as a dipping sauce for sushi or other Asian-inspired dishes.
If you’re avoiding soy altogether, tamari may not be the best option for you. Instead, try using coconut aminos as a soy sauce substitute. Coconut aminos have a lighter taste than tamari and are made from coconut sap instead of soybeans. They are also gluten-free and contain 17 different types of amino acids that are beneficial for the body.
