If you’re searching for a way to spruce up a savory dish such as meat, fish, pasta or vegetables, Tamari may be just the condiment you’re looking for. If you’re unfamiliar with Tamari or have never tasted it before, we’re here to provide you with all the information you need to understand the true significance of its remarkable flavor.

Read this complete guide to learn about the distinctive taste profiles of Tamari, a brief history and some different foods to pair it with. We’ll also cover some fascinating history and properties of umami, a rich and savory taste commonly identified in Tamari. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

What Is Tamari?
What Does Tamari Taste Like?
What Is Umami?
Properties of Umami
What Foods Does Tamari Taste Best On?
Get Tamari From San-J Today

What Is Tamari?

Tamari is a type of Japanese soy sauce. Compared to typical soy sauces, this condiment has a richer and milder taste. The main difference between tamari and typical soy sauce is ingredient ratio. While typical soy sauce is made with about half soybeans and half wheat, tamari is made with soybeans and contains little to no wheat. Despite of a richer taste and a darker color, tamari and typical soy sauces have about the same amount of sodium. Try reduced-sodium options) if you are looking for a way to reduce your sodium intake.

A Brief History of Tamari

The history of Tamari dates back to the seventh century AD when it was initially brought from China to Japan. It was discovered that cooking and fermenting soybeans produces a dark red paste, which the Japanese named “miso.” The ripening process of miso produced a protein-rich liquid later dubbed “Tamari.” This name translates to “that which accumulates.” This product marks the origin of Japanese soy sauce.

What Does Tamari Taste Like?

Despite tasting more mellow than most soy sauces, Tamari’s high soybean concentration gives it a deep, rich umami flavor. Tamari sauce adds a smooth, savory and almost meaty taste to essentially any dish it accompanies. 

Tamari is commonly paired with soups, noodles, dumplings, rice and other Japanese dishes to enhance their flavor, adding just the right amount of salt and texture. To give your meal a deeper, more exciting blend of flavor, consider adding some Tamari Soy Sauce!

What Is Umami?

Umami is the perfect way to describe Tamari — it’s a meaty, savory flavor that comforts the taste buds. It typically describes various meats, fish, broths, gravies, cheeses and vegetables. If you’re a fan of savory foods but don’t enjoy excessive amounts of salt, umami is likely your preferred taste.

A Brief History of Umami

You’re likely familiar with the four basic taste groups — sweet, sour, salty and bitter. However, a fifth identified taste was added to the mix in the mid-1980s. Professor Kikunae Ikeda first discovered this distinctive savory flavor in the early 19th century when tasting boiled tofu in kombu dashi, a kelp-based broth. 

This taste was eventually given the name umami, a Japanese term that translates to “deliciousness” or “pleasant savory taste.” Umami is often present in foods that contain the amino acid, glutamate, such as parmesan cheese, mushrooms, miso and seaweed.

Umami was officially chosen as the name for this fifth taste in Hawaii in 1985 at the Umami International Symposium. For umami to become an independent taste, researchers had to prove it was not a combination of other tastes and used its own taste receptor. Since their success, umami has become a widely popular flavor with food manufacturers, especially those seeking lower-sodium alternatives.

Properties of Umami

Umami taste has various properties that distinguish it from the other four taste groups. Now that we’ve covered a brief history of umami, let’s look at some significant characteristics that highlight the essence of this unique and delicious taste:

• Long-lasting flavor: Many have described umami as having a mild but lasting aftertaste that spreads across the tongue and throat and roof and back of the mouth. Though it may not be ideal as a standalone taste, it complements numerous other foods wonderfully.
• Varied foods: We may not always realize it, but umami flavor is in foods we eat every day. Glutamate is present in multiple foods, including cheese, meat, vegetables and even green tea! 
• Easily achievable: This delicious flavor is surprisingly easy to achieve when cooking. Glutamate is in many condiments that may be sitting in your pantry — salad dressings, ketchup, soy sauce, miso, truffle oil and more. 
• Savory and mouthwatering: Umami provides a savory, mouthwatering sensation — this is probably its most significant identifying factor.
• Effective food enhancer: Umami’s savory quality can round out contrasting flavors, making them taste even better. 
• Less sodium intake: Use umami rich condiment such as tamari in place of salt to reduce sodium.

What Foods Does Tamari Taste Best On?

Tamari complements many savory dishes to create a delicious, balanced blend of flavor. If you’re looking for different foods to try with Tamari, here are 11 meals you might consider pairing this sauce with:

1. Turkey

To create the perfect comfort meal, try brining your turkey with Tamari. This is a great way to prevent the bird from toughening or drying out, as the salt and water mixture allows the turkey to absorb moisture. Refrigerate your Tamari-brined turkey to use for sandwiches and future meals, or wow your family and friends on Thanksgiving!

Try out this mouthwatering honey soy glazed turkey for another great turkey recipe. This recipe will surely satisfy. It has a diverse blend of flavors that includes sweet honey and molasses, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, tender turkey and plenty of Tamari Soy Sauce.

2. Noodles

If you’re a diehard pasta fan, Tamari adds an extra delectable taste to various noodles. Consider tossing ramen, udon or soba noodles with Tamari to create a rich and irresistible flavor!

Try out this Thai noodles with spring vegetables recipe if you’re looking for a tasty way to add Tamari to your noodles. This dish is perfect for a delicious meal. It creates a flavorful blend of gluten-free Pad Thai noodles and Tamari Soy Sauce, along with other veggies and seasonings. Top it with some sesame seeds for extra garnish.

3. Rice

You can also add extra flavor to an ordinary bowl of rice by mixing it with some Tamari Soy Sauce! Whether steamed or fried, rice is a great dish to pair with this tasty condiment. For a delicious meal that blends steamed Japanese rice with Tamari, try out this Oyako Donburi recipe — chicken and egg with rice. Pick up some boneless chicken breasts, onion, mushrooms, vegetable oil, rice and Tamari Soy Sauce, and cook up this dish for your next meal.

4. Dumplings

Tamari is an excellent dipping sauce for dumplings. Mix Tamari, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil. Add some chili oil if you like it spicy. It also pairs wonderfully with potstickers, a type of Chinese dumpling that’s steamed on one side and pan-fried on the other. If you’re having homemade Chinese food, consider adding lamb potstickers to your spread. This dish calls for a pound of lean ground lamb, fresh ginger and onion, a large egg and some Tamari Soy Sauce. With this delicious recipe, you’ll likely find it impossible to eat just one.

5. Soup

A steaming, savory bowl of soup is the perfect meal for a chilly day. However, it can taste even better when you add some Tamari to your broth. Consider trying this easy Asian noodle soup recipe. This dish is simple and fun to make, and it only takes minutes. All you’ll need is some chicken broth, mushrooms, onions, seaweed, thin rice noodles and 3 tablespoons of Tamari. Give this soup recipe a go for your next meal!

For a more veggie-based soup, you can try out this creamy miso broccoli soup. This hot, delicious dish creates a savory blend of fresh chopped broccoli, peas, onion, white beans, garlic, Tamari Soy Sauce and other umami ingredients. You’ll likely find yourself making this soup over and over again after just one taste!

6. Chicken

Chicken is a versatile meal. You can cook and prepare it in multiple ways — fried, grilled, baked, roasted and more. You can also use a range of seasonings and flavorings — one of them being Tamari Soy Sauce.

There are endless options for chicken dishes you can pair Tamari with. If you need some inspiration, try this delicious honey and Tamari chicken recipe! This dish creates a delightful blend of savory, tender chicken with the sweet taste of clover honey while adding some fresh veggies, spices and rice.

If you’re looking for another chicken and Tamari-based dish, this slow cooker Asian sesame chicken will make your mouth water. With just the right combination of chicken, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil and Tamari Soy Sauce, dinnertime will surely be a delight.

7. Fish

If you enjoy seafood, consider enhancing the flavor of your fish with some Tamari. Many fish pair nicely with Tamari, including cod, barramundi, salmon and more. This halibut with white wine, Tamari and lemon recipe is the perfect concoction of flavors — tangy citrus, tender halibut fillets, dry white wine and fresh, thinly-sliced vegetables.

For another delicious fish recipe, try out these coconut fish sticks! If you love the taste of sweet coconut and seafood, this recipe captures both of these flavors perfectly. All you’ll need is some tilapia fillets, coconut flakes, mayonnaise, a teaspoon of Tamari Soy Sauce and one large egg to whip up these fish sticks. These are ideal appetizers to accompany your next meal and are delightful to eat on their own — give them a try!

8. Vegetables

Cooked vegetables are a delicious, healthy meal with an array of possibilities for garnishes, seasonings and flavorings. Tamari Soy Sauce is an excellent condiment to add to your veggies for a boost of flavor.

For a fun, easy vegetable recipe, try out these grilled vegetable skewers. These are perfect for warmer seasons, as you can cook them outside on the grill. Consider serving these as a dinner appetizer for your next summer cookout. Pick up some fresh vegetables, wooden skewers, spices and Tamari and try these out!

This spicy beef and vegetable stir fry is another great way to combine cooked vegetables and Tamari for a mouthwatering flavor. This recipe will likely become a favorite with its unique blend of sweet brown sugar, spicy ginger, chili garlic paste and plenty of fresh vegetables.

9. Salad

Though salad is a simple side dish to serve alongside your entrée, it’s delicious when paired with the right blend of condiments, toppings, garnishes or dressings. Try making this crisp chicken curry salad for a great way to pair Tamari Soy Sauce with your salad. This recipe integrates a balanced blend of tender chicken breast, curry powder and cayenne pepper, red lettuce leaves, fresh veggies and more.

You also might consider tossing up some roasted spring vegetable cobb salad. With the perfect combination of garbanzo beans, sweet honey, apple cider vinegar, Tamari and fresh arugula and veggies, this salad is ideal for enjoying on a warm summer afternoon.

10. Pork

Pork is another delicious meat to pair with Tamari for an extra savory and mouthwatering flavor. Try cooking up some hoisin pork stir fry in a large frying pan or wok for a tasty pork and Tamari recipe. All you’ll need is a pound of pork tenderloin, some grapeseed oil, snow peas, sliced bamboo shoots and Tamari hoisin sauce. Your next dinner entrée will surely be a hit with this irresistible dish.

Additionally, try this delicious Japanese ginger pork, or Shoga-Yaki! With this recipe, season pork with potato starch, vegetable oil and sake, then top with a rich ginger sauce containing Tamari for an ideal blend of sweet and savory flavors.

11. Tofu

If you’re looking for a healthier meat substitute to lower your cholesterol and provide an excellent source of iron, you might consider pairing some Tamari with tofu for your next meal. Try this Tamari tofu recipe if you need a simple, tasty dish to cook. Pick up a package of tofu, some grapeseed oil and a generous amount of Tamari Soy Sauce. You can also add any desired seasonings such as onion, garlic powder, cumin or red pepper flakes.

Get Tamari From San-J Today

After you’ve read about the origins and flavor properties of Tamari and umami, we hope you’re inspired to try pairing some Tamari with your next meal. These delicious dishes all incorporate the irresistible savory taste of Tamari to create meals that will last in your memories.

At San-J, we offer a wide selection of quality, fresh and delicious Tamari Soy Sauce products. Our Tamari is carefully brewed and fermented for up to six months for a rich, authentic flavor. Our sauces contain no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. They are also Non-GMO verified by the Non-GMO Project and certified gluten-free by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization. We also provide lower-sodium Tamari options for those looking to reduce their salt intake. No matter your dietary needs or preferences, we have products for everyone to enjoy.

To purchase your San-J Tamari, you can order it online or locate a store near you. Get yours today!

During the summer months, gardens everywhere spring to life. Whether you have tomatoes blooming on the vine in your backyard or frequently head to the nearest farmer’s market, you likely take advantage of the abundance of produce from May through September.

Of course, it can be tough to figure out new ways to make the most of the fruits and veggies that grow during summertime. Below are five of our top ways to sneak more produce into your diet in delicious, innovative ways.

1. Grill Your Garden Treats

Sure, you grill burgers and ribs, but when was the last time you tossed corn on the grill? Have you ever steamed newly cut carrots, onions, green beans and a dash of orange sauce wrapped in a foil pouch on the grill grates?

Experiment grilling all sorts of produce from skewered sweet potato pieces to halved, lightly buttered peaches. You might be amazed at how the grill brings out different flavors.

2. Rev up Your Smoothies

Switch up your smoothie by adding fruits and vegetables you don’t ordinarily include in your morning or noontime treat.

Chunks of melons, pieces of kale, blackberries, zucchini, beets and even cucumbers can make it into your blended beverages. Play around with ratios of veggies to fruits to discover exciting combinations your taste buds will appreciate. You may find some new favorites, or at the very least, avoid falling into a rut.

3. Create Ridiculously Varied Salads

While there’s nothing wrong with a plain green side salad, summer is the ideal time to toss anything and everything into your salads. Slice up some crunchy radishes, juicy pears, sweet onions and colorful peppers to top basic types of lettuce.

Want to add some protein for a nutritionally complete meal? Bathe chicken or tofu in a soy sauce marinade in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to an hour before grilling or baking. You’ll appreciate the rich taste.

4. Make Desserts Fruit-Based

You may end up with tons of fruit in your refrigerator. Use it up by tossing it into layered yogurt parfaits. Just put a scoop of honey-sweetened plain yogurt into a bowl, top it with a layer of fruit slices or pieces, top with more yogurt, and garnish with some nuts or seeds. Your sweet tooth will be satisfied without overloading your body with sugary desserts.

If the day is very hot, freeze fruits like grapes, cherries and bananas. They’re amazing when frozen. You can even take some extra from your morning smoothie, freeze it in a popsicle mold and eat it later for an indulgent dessert.

5. Incorporate Produce Into Every Meal

Rather than letting any meals go by without fruits, vegetables or herbs, make sure you have at least one kind of produce spotlighted in every meal. For instance, if you’re skewering shrimp and scallops, make some zucchini veggie kebabs slathered in Asian grilling sauce to go along with the shellfish.

Sneaking produce into breakfasts, lunches and dinners will help you stay fuller longer and improve your daily nutritional intake.

Ready to go green — and all the other colors of the rainbow available in your produce aisle? Grab some San-J Asian Cooking Sauces, bookmark your favorite produce recipes and start making culinary magic.

Are you short on time or can’t decide on healthy, delicious meals you can cook that the whole family will love? Everyone knows these struggles. When you want to prepare meals at home with less trouble during a busy week, a little planning can save lots of time. We’ve gathered recipes for three different dishes that use similar ingredients, so you can make a different meal for each day.

Gathering Your Make-Ahead Ingredients

Select a protein source, complex carbohydrates, such as dietary fiber and starches, and a small portion of healthy fats for a balanced meal plan. Mixing and matching is often the key as picking at least two or three in each category below adds flavor variety and broadens your nutritional intake. Some ideas include:

Protein: Chicken, beef, shrimp, pork, tofu and salmon
Vegetables: Broccoli, kale, spinach, cabbage, bell peppers, mushrooms, cauliflower, carrots, asparagus and snap peas
Seasonings: Cooking sauces, vinaigrettes, dressings and spices

After a grocery store trip, you need to do some planning and prep. Wash and cut your greens while keeping some airtight containers and bags handy. This is also a good time to season any proteins that your family would enjoy marinated for another day. Refrigerate or freeze these prepared portions as necessary.

Now that you have some components chopped or divided as well as sealed and stored, you can cook the meals that will feed your family for three days. Let’s cover some easy everyday meals that put all the ingredients together for this three-day meal plan.

1. Salad With Homemade Dressing

Arranging a fresh salad with the vegetables you gathered should only take a little work the following day. Try one of these five gluten-free Asian dressing ideas to drizzle over your tossed ingredients — perhaps a tangy lemon sauce or creamy sesame, or simply use a cooking sauce to leave out any measuring and whisking.

If you’d like to add some protein to bulk up the hearty greens, try a few lean cuts of chicken, a serving of quinoa or pre-cooked legumes such as beans, lentils or chickpeas.

2. Asian Stir-Fry

A stir-fry usually comes together in just three steps with a choice of protein, a mix of vegetables and a bit of Asian cooking sauce. For example, you could try beef and broccoli or teriyaki chicken with zucchini, red pepper and broccoli. If you favor plant-based proteins, tofu also makes a versatile main ingredient.

Do you have any leftover meat from your Asian stir-fry recipe? You could try bits of steak in an omelet the next morning or slice up chicken, pork or salmon to use for a lunchtime sandwich or salad.

3. Grilled Asian Kebabs

Grilled kebabs capture that memorable feeling of a family summer cookout. It’s also a smart way to heat up some main ingredients you haven’t used yet. Load up a skewer with smaller cuts of meat, vegetables and even some fruit such as pineapple, orange and cherry tomatoes. You can check out these Asian kebab recipes for ideas. Baste each side of the skewer with sauce to bring out the flavor in every mouth-watering bite.

We hope you now have some ideas you’re eager to try throughout the week. For more food prep tips, visit our blog or explore our recipes section for simple meals to try later.

If you’re looking for the best party snacks, look no further. These cracker appetizers are so versatile. Top them with any of these variations and take a stab at creating your own combinations!

These loaded crackers are best eaten right away to avoid getting soggy. Better yet, save yourself the prep work, and simply set up a station where guests can layer on toppings of their choice.

All About the Crackers

San-J Brown Rice Crackers are so good on their own, they don’t even need any toppings. They’re baked with San-J Tamari or San-J Teriyaki Sauce. They’re certified Gluten-free, certified Vegan, and verified Non-GMO. They’re perfect for dips and spreads, or straight out of the package.

Learn more about our crackers here, where you can read ingredient and nutrition information, find a store near you or buy from our online store.

Bring on All the Toppings

These are some of our favorite toppings, but the possibilities are endless!

Smoked salmon, cream cheese, green onions, sesame seeds, on a Tamari Black Sesame Rice Cracker.

Sliced radish, salted ricotta, fresh cilantro or parsley. Topped on a Tamari Brown Sesame Rice Cracker.

Avacado Crackers with sliced avocado, Tamari Soy Sauce, sesame seeds, all on a Teriyaki Sesame Rice Cracker. This combination is dairy-free!

Spicy Ahi poke tuna, Tamari Soy Sauce, green onions, sesame seeds, on a Tamari Black Sesame Rice Cracker. This combination is dairy-free! Follow safety precautions when serving raw fish. Many grocers carry ahi tuna packaged with instructions. If it’s not packaged as ahi tuna, make sure it’s sushi-grade tuna.

Fruit spread and goat cheese. We went with fig fruit spread for some and ginger spread for other. Topped on a Tamari Brown Sesame Rice Cracker.

Sliced cucumber, cream cheese, Italian dressing, fresh parsley. Topped on a Teriyaki Sesame Rice Cracker. You can combine the sliced cucumbers with the dressing ahead of time and they’ll soak up the flavor.

Cherry tomato, cream cheese and sesame seeds on a Tamari Black Sesame Rice Cracker with rosemary infused olive oil drizzled over top.

Snacks for any occassion

Make them to share, or make them to enjoy on your own. These cracker appetizers are perfect for holiday parties, after school snacks, game day, cookouts and pool-side snacking. Just be sure to let us know what your favorite combinations are! Tag us on Instagram @sanjtamari for your chance to be featured.