This Vegan Oyster sauce flawlessly mimics the aroma and flavour of real Oyster sauce. But, what is Oyster Sauce and how can one make a vegan version? Vegan Oyster Sauce, sometimes referred to as Stir Fry Sauce, is perfect not only for noodles or vegetable stir-fries but also as a marinade for tofu, seitan, or tempeh. To make the marinade, take a bowl and mix together olive oil, soy sauce or tamari, lemon juice, oregano, cumin, paprika powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
While some brands of vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce contain MSG, which is considered unhealthy, the WAN JA SHAN brand (ad) does not. This homemade oyster sauce, made from shiitake mushrooms, is not only gluten-free and vegan-friendly but also free from additives. The process involves adding minced garlic, vegetarian oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil in a pan. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple peanut sauce, you can create a delightful oyster mushroom stir fry in just 20 minutes!
For those who are curious, oyster sauce can be used as a fish sauce substitute. This brings to light the age-old question, ‘Does oyster sauce really contain oysters?’ Well, the answer might surprise you. Vegan alternatives often use mushrooms to mimic the flavor. Teriyaki sauce, although sweeter and thinner, can sometimes be used in place of oyster sauce, but quantities should be adjusted accordingly.
Whether you’re a vegetarian, allergic to shellfish, or simply exploring new flavors, vegan oyster sauce is an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire. It’s a perfect go-to seasoning for everything from stir-fried meat and vegetables to seafood and dumplings. So, the next time you’re looking to elevate your Asian-inspired dishes, consider the vegan oyster sauce as a flavorful alternative.
