What Is Natural Oyster Sauce?
Natural oyster sauce is a condiment made from oyster extract, sugar, salt, and water. It is not to be confused with oyster sauce made with additives, preservatives, and artificial flavors. The natural version is a rich, dark brown sauce with a distinctly sweet, salty, and umami flavor. It is a popular ingredient in Chinese, Indonesian, and Thai dishes, where it is used to season stir-fries, soups, and sauces. Natural oyster sauce is naturally gluten-free and vegan, and it is a great alternative to store-bought oyster sauces.
Where Does Natural Oyster Sauce Come From?
Natural oyster sauce is thought to have originated in China in the 19th century. It is believed that the sauce was created by accident when a chef left a pot of oysters on the stove for too long. The resulting sauce was so flavorful that it quickly became popular in the region. Today, natural oyster sauce is a staple of Chinese cuisine, as well as Indonesian and Thai cuisine. It is sold in jars, cans, and bottles in grocery stores and Asian specialty markets.
What Are the Benefits of Natural Oyster Sauce?
The primary benefit of natural oyster sauce is that it contains no additives, preservatives, or artificial flavors. This makes it a healthier option than store-bought oyster sauce, which often contains MSG and other additives. Natural oyster sauce is also gluten-free and vegan, making it a great option for people with dietary restrictions. Additionally, natural oyster sauce is a great source of umami flavor, which adds depth and richness to dishes.
What Is the Best Natural Oyster Sauce in 2023?
The best natural oyster sauce in 2023 is a tie between Lee Kum Kee Premium Oyster Sauce and Golden Swan Brand Natural Oyster Sauce. Lee Kum Kee is a global brand that has been producing sauces and condiments since 1888. Their Premium Oyster Sauce is made with only natural ingredients and no added MSG. Golden Swan is a lesser-known brand, but their Natural Oyster Sauce is also made with all-natural ingredients and no added MSG. Both of these sauces are gluten-free and vegan, and they are the perfect addition to stir-fries, soups, sauces, and more.
How to Use Natural Oyster Sauce
Natural oyster sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It is most commonly used in Chinese, Indonesian, and Thai dishes such as stir-fries, soups, and sauces. It can also be used as a marinade for meat or vegetables, or as a dipping sauce for spring rolls and dumplings. Additionally, natural oyster sauce can be used as a glaze for roasted vegetables or as a base for salad dressings.
How to Store Natural Oyster Sauce
Natural oyster sauce should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It should be kept in an airtight container to prevent it from becoming rancid. Once opened, natural oyster sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 months. It can also be frozen for up to 6 months. It is important to note that natural oyster sauce can darken over time, so it should be used within the recommended time frame.
Conclusion
Natural oyster sauce is a delicious condiment that is a popular ingredient in Chinese, Indonesian, and Thai dishes. It is made with only natural ingredients and no added MSG, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought oyster sauces. The best natural oyster sauces in 2023 are Lee Kum Kee Premium Oyster Sauce and Golden Swan Brand Natural Oyster Sauce. Natural oyster sauce can be used in a variety of dishes, and it should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
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