People often reach for soy sauce when they order sushi, but there are plenty of other sauces that can elevate a rolls experience. Lyudmila Rumyantseva, a chief technologist from the sushi and roll distribution network Mnogo Salmon, shared a few flavorful alternatives that pair beautifully with Japanese dishes.
First up is a hazelnut sauce designed to accompany starters. This nutty option lightens the palate and pairs well with both rice and seafood, making it a natural fit for rolls. The base relies on walnuts and is brightened with parsley and garlic, creating a vivid, herbaceous finish that adds depth to the dish.
Another recommended companion for sushi is Unagi sauce. This dark, chewy condiment carries a sweet and salty profile that complements eel rolls in particular. It also helps mellow any fishy notes, so for those who aren’t fond of strong seafood flavors, Unagi sauce can be a perfect way to enjoy sushi without overpowering the other components.
An alternative to the traditional soy-based option is Tamari. Similar in taste to soy sauce but less salty and thicker, Tamari contains no added wheat, making it a suitable choice for people with gluten intolerance. Its smoother texture and richer finish can enhance the overall flavor of a roll without the dryness that some sauces can introduce.
Rumyantseva also highlights two additional sauces worth trying. Miso paste presents as a thick, fermented soybean paste. When diluted with a touch of water, it becomes a dip or dressing that introduces a salty, pleasantly tangy note to a bite, providing a unique counterpoint to the sweetness of some fillings. Kimchi sauce represents a Korean influence, combining red pepper, ginger, chili, and gochujang paste. Its spicy kick makes it a compelling alternative for those who enjoy heat and complexity with their sushi. This option can wake up milder rolls and add a memorable zing to the overall flavor profile.
In summary, these sauces offer a broader range of flavor experiences beyond traditional soy sauce. Each option brings its own character to the table, allowing diners to tailor the experience to personal taste preferences while enhancing the harmony between rice, fish, and vegetables. For those exploring sushi accompaniments, trying these varieties can open new avenues for enjoying a familiar dish in fresh, exciting ways. The choices—from nutty and smooth to bold and spicy—create opportunities to build a custom dipping or finishing experience that suits different palates and dietary considerations. Source: Mnogo Salmon briefing on sauce pairings for sushi and rolls.