Is Soy Sauce Keto?

Asian Sauces
Soy Sauce sticker illustration
KETO VERDICTYES

Keto-friendly in small amounts. Per tablespoon (~15 mL) typically ~1g net carbs, while per 100g it’s ~5–6g. Intense umami means a little goes a long way—great for keto stir-fries, marinades, and dressings.

Keto-friendly in small amounts. Per tablespoon (~15 mL) typically ~1g net carbs, while per 100g it’s ~5–6g. Intense umami means a little goes a long way—great for keto stir-fries, marinades, and dressings.

  • Net carbs (100g)5.5g
  • Protein (100g)8g
  • Fat (100g)0g
  • Keto verdictKeto-friendly

NUTRITION FACTS

Per 100g (raw)

Net Carbs
5.5g
Total Carbs
5.5g
Fiber
0g
Protein
8g
Fat
0g
Calories
53

Source: USDA FoodData Central

WHY IT'S KETO-FRIENDLY

  • Potent flavor = very small serving sizes (~1 tsp–1 tbsp), keeping carbs low
  • Per 100g ~5–6g net carbs, but typical use is a fraction of that
  • Choose sugar-free, traditionally brewed options; avoid sweetened blends
  • Tamari is a good gluten-free alternative; coconut aminos are sweeter and higher carb—use sparingly
  • Track macros if sauces/marinades add up

HEALTH BENEFITS

  • Rich umami peptides can boost meal satisfaction
  • Traditional fermentation yields bioactive compounds (not a probiotic after pasteurization)
  • Adds depth to protein- and fat-forward keto meals, improving dietary adherence
  • Trace minerals present, but sodium dominates—use mindfully

PREPARATION SUGGESTIONS

BASIC USAGE

Splash into stir-fries, scrambled eggs, or sautéed greens for instant umami.

FLAVOR ENHANCEMENT

Whisk with sesame-oil, grated ginger, and garlic for a quick finishing sauce.

MARINADE BASE

Combine with olive-oil, vinegar-apple-cider, and chili for steak or salmon marinades.

DIPPING SAUCE

Mix with wasabi or a little mayo-avocado for a creamy, low-carb dip.

SEASONING AGENT

Add a teaspoon to broths and pan sauces to round out saltiness with umami.

FINISHING TOUCH

Drizzle lightly over shirataki-noodles or zucchini-noodles just before serving.