Liquid and coconut aminos are only known among people who are interested in turning towards a healthier lifestyle. If you are one of those who love soy sauce but want a good and healthier version of it, then you have come to the right place.
What is the difference between liquid amino and coconut aminos?
Although certain characteristics are similar in both the products, some big differences can either make or break the dish.
The differences include ingredients, flavor, health level, process, salt content.
So, let’s learn more about the differences between liquid and coconut aminos. Let’s get started!
Liquid Aminos Vs Coconut Aminos: What’s The Difference?
Liquid and coconut aminos have some key differences, so let’s take a closer look at each!
Ingredients
As the name suggests, coconut aminos are specific to coconuts. Since the dominant flavor is coconut, you can use it only in those dishes that require this strong coconut flavor.
Coconut aminos contain coconut sap, nectar, coconut sugar, and salt.
On the other hand, liquid aminos are suitable for vegans because they are soy products. Additionally, it contains at least 16 amino acids that our body requires. Amino acids come from soy and that’s why it’s a great protein product.
Our body requires 20 amino acids out of which 16 are already available in liquid aminos. This makes it a great product for both vegans and vegetarians. Plus, you can use it on tofu to enhance its flavor.
Basically, this is a great substitute for soy sauce in terms of flavor, health factor, and even salt content.
Flavor
Coconut aminos have a similar flavor profile as a light soy sauce. It is mildly salty, sweet, and savory.
Since the salt content in liquid aminos is high, this makes it a better substitute for soy sauce. It has almost the same flavor as soy sauce. It’s sweet, salty, and has a really good umami flavor to it.
Moreover, liquid aminos have more sugar in them to balance out the extreme saltiness. Still, coconut aminos are sweeter in taste because it creates a harmony between the salty and sweet flavor.
However, if you want to substitute soy sauce, then liquid aminos are the perfect alternative. On the other hand, if you want to substitute soy sauce for health purposes, then coconut aminos are better.
Process
The process of making coconut aminos and liquid aminos is completely different.
One goes through a fermentation process, whereas the other steers away from it. Therefore, we have discussed the process of both coconut and liquid aminos that major manufacturers use.
Below is the process to make coconut aminos:
- First, the sap is collected from the coconut tree’s flower.
- Then, the fermentation process begins by fermenting the coconut sap with vinegar.
- After this, the sweetness is added to it by putting in the coconut nectar and sugar
- Finally, add some salt and you’re done.
Of course, this process takes plenty of time but this is what makes them different. Moreover, you can get different flavors in it too such as garlic and teriyaki.
This is soy and gluten-free, so it is organic, vegan and a great product to use while dieting.
On the other hand, while making liquid aminos, there is no fermentation process followed. Below, we have given the process followed by manufacturers to make liquid aminos:
- First, the soybeans are treated with an acidic chemical solution that breaks down the soy protein.
- The product that remains after this is the free amino acids which are neutralized with sodium bicarbonate.
- The process takes some time but the end result is a savory, sweet, and salty sauce that is similar to soy sauce.
Salt content
Coconut aminos have a sodium content of 90 mg per teaspoon. On average, a soy sauce has a sodium content of 280 mg per teaspoon which is a lot. Automatically, coconut aminos become healthier than soy sauce.
However, liquid aminos have a salt content of 320 mg per 5 ml which is more than both coconut aminos and soy sauce. That’s why a very little quantity of liquid aminos is used in any dish because it makes the dish salty quickly.
Liquid Aminos Vs Coconut Aminos: Comparison Table
There are numerous differences between coconut and liquid aminos, but we have compiled that in a table for your ease.
Category |
Liquid Aminos |
Coconut Aminos |
Ingredients |
Soy protein and water |
Coconut sap, nectar, sugar, and salt |
Flavor |
Sweet, salty, and umami |
Salty, sweet, and mild |
Health level |
Less healthy due to salt |
Healthy in comparison to soy sauce and liquid aminos |
Process |
Soy protein is broken into free amino acids |
Fermentation with vinegar |
Salt content |
320 mg per 5 ml |
90 mg per 5 ml |
Is Liquid Aminos Better Or Coconut Aminos?
The answer completely depends upon the factor you are taking into consideration.
Health factor
If the health factor is the reason why you’re looking for a soy sauce substitute, then we would recommend that you go for coconut aminos. Consumption of more salt is one of the major reasons why people are facing heart-related issues.
For diet purposes as well, dieticians always recommend coconut aminos. This sauce actually rose to fame due to the paleo diet. Its flavors are unique and it’s overall health so it deserves a place on your shield.
As a substitute
If you are looking for an alternative to soy sauce, then you should go for liquid aminos. Its taste, flavor, salt content, and health factor are almost the same. Moreover, it matches the flavor of the dark soy sauce, so you can easily go for this one.
Why Are Coconut Aminos Better?
There is no doubt that coconut aminos are better in all forms. We have already explained the health factor but if you want to use it as a substitute also, then it’s a good alternative.
It matches the flavor profile of light soy sauce and if you think that the salt content is too less, then you can always add more salt to the dish. Moreover, it is both soy and gluten-free, so it makes for a good option in the long run.
Related Questions
Can I substitute Bragg’s liquid aminos for coconut aminos?
Unfortunately, you cannot substitute Bragg’s liquid aminos for coconut aminos because it is a soy product. For people who have soy allergies, this item is not recommended. Moreover, it is saltier as it contains 320 mg of sodium.
Can I substitute soy sauce for coconut aminos?
Soy sauce is saltier and has slightly more developed flavors than coconut aminos. Plus, it has more yumminess to it too. Although coconut aminos do not contain soy in them, it makes for a perfect substitute due to their almost similar flavor profile.
If you don’t have any issues with soy then you can substitute one for the other but you’ll have to watch out for the salt content.
Is there any substitute for liquid aminos?
You can substitute liquid aminos with soy sauce, tamari sauce, coconut aminos, and fish sauce. These sauces have a mildly sweet and salty flavor with an umami texture to complement them.
How do I use coconut aminos Instead of soy sauce?
You can easily replace it with a 1:1 ratio. Since soy sauce has more salt content, you can add in a little quantity of salt. Otherwise, it’s always good to cut on a little salt.