oyster sauce

Oyster Sauce

Oyster sauce is a thick, dark brown condiment made from oyster extracts, sugar, salt, and often thickened with cornstarch. It delivers a savory, umami-rich flavor with a hint of sweetness and a subtle oceanic essence. Its smooth, slightly viscous texture makes it ideal for glazing, stir-fries, and marinades. Looking for a delicious way to add depth and complexity to your Asian-inspired dishes? Oyster sauce is your answer!

Common Uses

  • Elevate stir-fries with a savory depth: Looking for a way to make your stir-fries burst with flavor? Add a tablespoon or two of oyster sauce towards the end of cooking to coat the vegetables and protein in a rich, savory glaze. It enhances the umami and adds a subtle sweetness that complements most stir-fry ingredients.
  • Create flavorful marinades for meats and vegetables: Want to create mouthwatering marinated dishes? Combine oyster sauce with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sesame oil for a simple yet incredibly flavorful marinade for beef, chicken, pork, or even grilled vegetables. Let the ingredients soak for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer, to infuse them with savory goodness.
  • Enhance the taste of noodle dishes: Want to make your noodle dishes even more tasty? Oyster sauce is a secret weapon for enhancing the flavor of noodle dishes like lo mein, chow mein, and pad see ew. Just a small amount stirred in during the final stages of cooking brings out a rich umami profile that elevates the dish.
  • Add umami to vegetable dishes: Want a quick way to add savory depth to your steamed or sauteed vegetables? Drizzle a bit of oyster sauce over broccoli, bok choy, or green beans to transform them into a delightful side dish. Its umami richness adds a satisfying layer of flavor that will make even the simplest vegetables irresistible.
  • Use as a base for delicious sauces: Looking for a shortcut to creating delicious sauces? Oyster sauce can serve as a versatile base for numerous Asian-inspired sauces. Experiment by combining it with ingredients like hoisin sauce, chili garlic sauce, rice vinegar, and honey to create customized sauces for dumplings, spring rolls, or even barbecue.
  • Boost flavor in soups and stews: Trying to add depth to a broth-based soup or stew? A teaspoon of oyster sauce can enhance the umami profile of clear soups and hearty stews, adding a subtle layer of complexity. Be careful not to add too much, as its flavor can be quite intense.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

74.0kcal (3.7%)

Protein

5.7g (11.4%)

Carbs

12.6g (4.58%)

Sugars

8.8g (17.6%)

Healthy Fat

0.0g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • May contain trace amounts of minerals like zinc, essential for immune function.
  • Potential source of B vitamins, important for energy metabolism.
  • Can contribute to a savory flavor profile, potentially reducing the need for added salt.
  • Contains some protein, which is important for muscle building and repair.
  • Can add umami flavor, enhancing the taste of dishes.

Storage Tips

Unopened oyster sauce can be stored in a cool, dark pantry at room temperature for an extended period. Once opened, it must be refrigerated to maintain its quality and prevent spoilage. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed after each use, and check for any changes in smell, color, or consistency before using. Properly refrigerated opened oyster sauce typically lasts for several months.

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