That feeling when you're out of MSG and your favorite dish just isn't hitting the same? We've been there.
MSG brings out the umami goodness that makes our meals irresistible, but sometimes, we run out or prefer an alternative. (MSG, short for monosodium glutamate, is the sodium salt of glutamic acid responsible for umami.)
We've got your back with the 8 best substitutes for that magic sprinkle. From pantry staples to a few unexpected picks, these alternatives will save your dinner plans in a pinch.
Let's get rolling and find out what can step in when MSG isn't around.
8 Easy Substitutes for MSG
While MSG is derived from an amino acid found in natural foods, it's the chemical process that gives it its flavor-improving properties. So don't worry about trying to find a natural form of MSG - you're better off sticking with these substitutes.
| Substitute | Taste | Texture | Ratio | Suitable Dish |
| Yeast Extract | Savory, umami | Thick, syrupy | 1:1 | Soups, stews, and sauces |
| Soy Sauce | Salty, savory | Thin, watery | 1:1 | Stir-fries, marinades, and sauces |
| Tamari | Rich, savory | Thick, syrupy | 1:1 | Stir-fries, marinades, and sauces |
| Nama Shoyu | Rich, savory | Thick, syrupy | 1:1 | Stir-fries, marinades, and sauces |
| Bragg's Liquid Aminos | Savory, slightly sweet | Thin, watery | 1:1 | Stir-fries, marinades, and sauces |
| Coconut Aminos | Savory, slightly sweet | Thin, watery | 1:1 | Stir-fries, marinades, and sauces |
| Miso Paste | Savory, slightly sweet | Thick, paste-like | 1:2 | Soups, stews, and sauces |
| Homemade Seasoning Blend | Customizable | Varies | Varies | Any dish |
1 - Yeast Extract
This golden wonder has a savory, umami-rich flavor. It's got that deep, meaty taste without the actual meat.
We're talking about yeast extract (derived from Saccharomyces cerevisiae).
What makes it special? It's packed with glutamates, which give it that MSG-like kick.
Perfect for soups, stews, or even a cheeky addition to our mac and cheese.
Our tip: use half a teaspoon for every teaspoon of MSG needed; see nutritional yeast substitutes for umami.
We've tried it on scrambled eggs too, and wow, it's a useful.
2 - Soy Sauce
When we're looking for a quick fix, soy sauce saves the day. This salty, umami-laden liquid can replace MSG with ease.
Key features? It's all about that deep, rich flavor.
It gives dishes a savory boost and a beautiful color (from caramelization and soy fermentation). Share an anecdote like, "We've tossed it in stir-fries and marinades.
Didn't miss the MSG at all!"
Ratio is simple: use one tablespoon of soy sauce for every teaspoon of MSG.
Want other options? See soy flour alternatives for baking.
Perfect for varied tastes.
3 - Tamari
For those soy sauce fans, Tamari is your new best sidekick. It's like soy sauce's cooler cousin, with a richer, less salty taste (often wheat-free and aged longer).
We've added it to stir-fries and found it hits the umami spot just right.
In a rush? Tamari steps in for MSG effortlessly.
The flavor is bold but not overpowering. Use one tablespoon of this sauce for each teaspoon of MSG.
Curious about other options? You might want to check out our Tamari substitutes guide for more ideas.
4 - Nama Shoyu
Nama Shoyu has a mellow, slightly sweet taste (an unpasteurized soy sauce with a fresher profile). It's unpasteurized, giving it a fresher flavor than regular soy sauce.
Perfect for sushi and salad dressings; see shoyu substitutes for savory dishes.
We use it as an MSG alternative in stir-fries and dips. It blends well and keeps the dish light.
Pro tip: One tablespoon of Nama Shoyu can stand in for each teaspoon of MSG needed.
We've even tossed it with veggies for a balanced, umami hit. This liquid gem does wonders in small amounts.
5 - Bragg's Liquid Aminos
The secret sauce we're all about: Bragg's Liquid Aminos. It's got that umami kick we crave, kind of like soy sauce but milder and a bit sweeter (made from soy protein hydrolysates).
Key features? It's naturally derived and keeps our dishes savory without overpowering them.
Works wonders in stir-fries, soups, or even salads.
Personal tip: Swap one tablespoon of Bragg's Liquid Aminos for each teaspoon of MSG.
If you're into trying other alternatives, see liquid smoke substitutes for grilling.
6 - Fish Sauce
The subtle flavor here is what makes fish sauce unique. It's pungent, briny, and totally packed with umami-ideal for that savory depth (traditionally fermented from anchovies and salt).
We threw it in our stir-fry and the results were spot on.
Key feature? A teaspoon of this liquid gold stands in for a teaspoon of MSG; see cod alternatives for flaky fish.
We loved how it amped up the flavor without overpowering it.
7 - Miso Paste
The taste of miso paste is like a warm hug for your palate. It's savory, a little sweet, and full of umami goodness (a fermented soybean paste produced with koji cultures).
We often use it in broths and dressings.
Key features? The depth of flavor it brings is unmatched.
It's thick and adds a creamy texture.
We mix one tablespoon of miso paste for every teaspoon of MSG.
Need more ideas on how to use miso? Check out our guide on miso substitutes.
You'll find some great tips.
8 - Homemade Seasoning Blend
We've crafted our own seasoning blend! Super simple and packed with flavor.
Why it rocks? It's the ultimate umami boost without additives.
Our mix combines onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt (try a 2:1:1:pinch ratio of onion:garlic:paprika:salt).
How to use it: Sprinkle one tablespoon for each teaspoon of MSG. This blend worked wonders in our soups and grilled veggies.
Personal tip: We even tried it on popcorn - a mind-blowing snack upgrade.
Favorite use? Stirred into a sauce, it brought richness and depth we love.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yeast extract is an excellent MSG substitute, as it offers a rich umami flavor. It's commonly used in vegan and vegetarian dishes to improve the savory taste.
Soy sauce can mimic the umami flavor of MSG, bringing saltiness and depth to dishes. It's a good alternative but be cautious about its high sodium content.
Tamari, a gluten-free soy sauce, is a great MSG alternative, offering a similar savory, umami flavor while keeping your dish gluten-free.
Miso paste works wonderfully in soups and broths as a substitute for MSG. It adds a rich, salty, and umami flavor with a fermented twist.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.
