Coconut aminos have a tangy umami flavor and are a great gluten-free alternative to traditional soy sauce. In addition, coconut aminos have less sodium than regular soy sauce and are a good choice for seasoning, salad dressings, and marinades.
I discovered coconut aminos during my first round of Whole30, a dietary program that removes dairy, soy, gluten and processed foods and promotes whole, low glycemic foods. Coconut aminos was my to-to condiment for my favorite dishes and I’ve kept it stocked in my cupboard ever since.
Below I share my favorite ways to use coconut aminos, frequently asked questions, and my favorite brands used in my kitchen.
What are coconut aminos?
Coconut aminos is a seasoning sauce that is made from the sap of coconut palm trees. The sap comes from coconut blossoms and is fermented. This savory sauce has a wide range of minerals and is an excellent alternative to soy sauce.
What’s the difference between coconut aminos and soy sauce?
Soy sauce and coconut aminos are similar in taste but are produced differently. It’s made from fermented soy and wheat, while coconut aminos come from the pure sap of coconut blossoms. Soy sauce is saltier than aminos and contains more sodium. Soy sauce also contains gluten, which may be problematic for some.
What do coconut aminos taste like?
Coconut aminos have a sweet and savory flavor with a bit of saltiness. I like to compare them to a mix between soy sauce and mild fish sauce. Though this liquid condiment is made from coconuts, it doesn’t have a coconutty flavor.
How To Use Coconut Aminos
You can use coconut amens in place of soy sauce in a 1:1 ratio in your favorite recipes, marinades, and dipping sauce. Below are some of my favorite recipes using organic coconut aminos:
- Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
- Paleo Honey Chicken
- Keto Orange Chicken
- Paleo Chicken Pad Thai
- Whole30 Beef Stir Fry
What are the best coconut aminos substitutes?
If you don’t have coconut aminos on hand, you can use soy sauce, shoyu, light soy sauce, or tamari instead. You can also make this coconut aminos substitute with broth and seasonings.
Coconut Aminos Nutritional Data
Nutrition per teaspoon:
- Calories: 5
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Net Carbs: 1g
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
Coconut aminos storage
Coconut aminos are fortunately VERY shelf-stable, so they can stay in your pantry for a long time without spoiling. However, the taste may fade off after time, so I’d recommend refrigerating coconut aminos after you open the bottle to prolong good taste.
My Favorite Brands of Coconut Aminos
So now that you know how to use coconut aminos, below you’ll find my favorite brands you can buy from the grocery store, natural foods store, or online!
#1 Coconut Secret
Coconut Secret coconut aminos was the first brand I used, and I still use it today. This sweet and delicious product is my go-to when I’mI’m enjoying sushi or making teriyaki sauce!
Made from organic coconut blossom nectar, this brand is Coconut Mama’s #1 pick!
#2 Trader Joe’s
I shop at Trader Joe’sJoe’s often (they’ve made my best of lists on my coconut milk, coconut cream, and coconut water articles). This product is great if you shop at Trader Joe’sJoe’s, and it is usually comparable, if not cheaper, than other brands.
Affordable product made from organic coconut sap. This product is available at Trader Joe’sJoe’s and is Coconut Mama’s #2 pick!
#3 Braggs Coconut Liquid Aminos
Braggs is another wonderful brand that makes several other products I use regularly. For example, I love their Apple Cider Vinegar and Nutritional Yeast! They created this original soy-free alternative with organic coconut tree sap, organic apple cider vinegar, and mineral-rich sea salt.
Perfect for stir fry or your favorite Asian dishes, this dark-colored sauce is a wonderful soy-free option. Coconut Mama’s #4 pick!
#4 Big Tree Farms
I recently tried this brand, and I really like the flavor of this coco amino sauce. It reminds me of dark soy sauce with a bit of a sweet flavor. This brand is a great affordable option.
Made from the sap of the wondrous coconut tree, this organic sauce is delicious and is Coconut Mama’s #4 pick!
FAQs
Yes! The coconut blossoms of the coconut tree regenerate every 14 days, and a coconut tree can produce nectar for 40 years, so they are never cut down after each harvest.
They are low in sodium and full of amino acids, potassium, and vitamin C. They are also low calorie and low on the glycemic index, making them a healthier alternative to leading brands of soy sauce, which are high in sodium.
Once you’ve opened the bottle, you should store it in the refrigerator. If the bottle is tightly sealed, it will store for up to six months.
Coconut aminos are a popular condiment that adds complexity and new flavors to your favorite dishes. Its unique salty-sweet taste makes it a wonderful substitute for soy sauce, creating dishes with a delightful burst of flavor that can’t be topped. Though there are many brands on the market, my recommendation is to go with one of the top four brands in terms of quality, price, and customer reviews. Give them all a try and see which one suits you best!
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