The Delicious Secret of Salt Reduction with Kikkoman Soy Sauce
For those who want to reduce salt intake without sacrificing deliciousness, soy sauce helps create satisfying, well-seasoned dishes
In recent years, growing awareness of healthier food lifestyles has led more people to pay attention to excessive salt (sodium) consumption. However, many are concerned that reducing the amount of salt used in cooking may leave their dishes tasting less satisfying.
In moments like these, soy sauce can make all the difference. By simply replacing part of the salt used in seasoning with soy sauce, you can easily reduce salt while still creating dishes that feel fully satisfying. Here, we introduce the lesser known “salt reducing effect” of soy sauce for those who want to balance healthfulness and deliciousness. Also included is a selection of Sodium Conscious Recipes using soy sauce for easy incorporation into your daily meals.
How Much Salt Reduction Is Actually Possible by Using Traditionally Brewed Kikkoman Soy Sauce?
Kikkoman Soy Sauce is produced using the traditional method of Japanese brewing called “Honjozo”, which relies on the natural powers of fermentation. The effects of umami and aroma generated during microbial fermentation help compensate for saltiness. By substituting salt with soy sauce during seasoning, the perceived flavor intensity and satisfaction can be maintained while reducing total salt content in salad dressing by 50%.
A Salad Dressing Example from the Netherlands
Ref.: Kremer S., Mojet J. & Shimojo R. Journal of Food Science, 74, S255-S262 (2009)
Seven Recommended Sodium Conscious Recipes
Even dishes that may appear high in salt at first glance can be enjoyed deliciously with less sodium when soy sauce is used effectively. Kikkoman’s suggested Sodium Conscious Recipes offer satisfying flavor while keeping sodium content per serving under 590 mg for main dishes and 393 mg for side dishes.* This makes it easier to begin reducing sodium in your daily meals—where consistency is key.
Spinach and Bell Pepper with Ground Sesame Seeds
A refreshing, colorful salad of spinach and bell peppers, lightly finished with aromatic sesame and a hint of soy sauce. Quick to make and easy to enjoy, it’s ideal as a side dish or for packing in a lunchbox.
(Sodium per serving: 236 mg)
Kabocha Squash Salad
Soft, sweet kabocha squash is combined with fragrant almonds to create a satisfying salad. Flavored with the richness of soy sauce, this simple dish complements any meal.
(Sodium per serving: 79 mg)
Japanese Rolled Omelette with Green Beans and Bell Peppers
A colorful rolled omelet packed with plenty of green beans and red bell pepper. Mixing Kikkoman Soy Sauce and sugar into the beaten eggs creates a delicate sweet-and-savory flavor.
(Sodium per serving: 197 mg)
Tomato Simmered Beef Rolls
Tender rolls of thinly sliced beef wrapped around asparagus and simmered slowly in a rich tomato sauce. Kikkoman Soy Sauce enhances the natural umami of the tomatoes, making this aesthetically appealing dish the perfect main course for special occasions.
(Sodium per serving: 394 mg)
Garlic Chicken Wings
Crisp, golden browned chicken wings with a savory aroma to amp up your appetite. Soy sauce in the marinade deepens the flavor, making each bite irresistibly crave worthy.
(Sodium per serving: 394 mg)
Almond Cod Meuniere
Tender cod with a lightly crisp exterior, delectably paired with a soy‑sauce‑infused almond sauce. The mellow richness enhances the natural umami of the dish and brings a touch of elegance to the table.
(Sodium per serving: 394 mg)
Classic Indian Keema Curry & Chapatis
A keema curry made with ground chicken and onions, highlighting the spiciness of curry powder and the umami of tomatoes. Adding Kikkoman Soy Sauce deepens the savoriness and brings the flavors into balance.
(Sodium per serving: 394 mg)
* Calculated based on the Dietary Reference Intakes for male and female Japanese adults aged 30–49 (2020 Edition), issued by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.
Sodium Conscious Recipes Main Dish and Side Dish recipes introduced on this site are classified according to their role in Japanese meals and do not indicate portion size.
More Sodium Conscious Recipes
Reducing salt intake is an important habit for improving and maintaining health, but it doesn’t mean you have to compromise on flavor. We hope this feature helps you discover the salt reducing effect of Traditionally Brewed Kikkoman Soy Sauce and inspires you to add new options to your everyday meals. Many more Sodium Conscious Recipes can be found on our Global Cookbook, so please take a look and enjoy cooking deliciously.
More Information about the Salt Reducing Effect of Kikkoman Soy Sauce
Further details about research findings demonstrating the salt reducing effect of Traditionally Brewed Kikkoman Soy Sauce can be found at the online Kikkoman Soy Sauce Museum. Click the link to learn more.
