If you or a loved one follow a gluten-free diet, you know that it can be a challenge to find versions of your favorite sauces that don’t compromise on flavor.
One such sauce is Worcestershire, a tangy, umami-rich condiment that unfortunately often contains gluten.
But don’t worry ā I’ve got you covered.
Today, I am going to be sharing with you a homemade gluten-free Worcestershire sauce recipe that’s just as flavorful as the traditional version.
What Do You Need To Make Gluten Free Worcestershire Sauce?
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a type of vinegar made from fermented apple juice. It’s known for its tangy, slightly sweet flavor and numerous health benefits.
In this Worcestershire sauce recipe, apple cider vinegar provides the necessary acidic element, balancing out the sweetness and savory flavors.
Tamari or Coconut Aminos
Tamari is a type of soy sauce that is often gluten-free, offering a deep, umami flavor that is less salty than traditional soy sauce.
Coconut aminos, another gluten-free option, is a soy-free sauce made from the sap of coconut palms.
It has a savory, slightly sweet and salty flavor, making it a versatile ingredient in many dishes.
Light Brown Sugar
Light brown sugar is white sugar with a small amount of molasses added, giving it a moist texture and a caramel-like flavor. In this recipe, light brown sugar contributes to the overall sweetness and aids in creating a thicker, more syrup-like consistency.
Ground Ginger
Ground ginger brings a warm, slightly peppery and sweet flavor to the sauce.
It’s a common spice in a variety of dishes and is known for its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.
Ground Mustard
Ground mustard, made from mustard seeds, adds a spicy and aromatic touch to the sauce.
It’s a key ingredient in many recipes due to its ability to enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
Onion Powder
Onion powder offers the flavor of fresh onions but in a dehydrated, ground form.
It’s a convenient and long-lasting way to give dishes a boost of savory onion flavor without the need for chopping and sautĆ©ing.
Garlic
Garlic, used here in its minced form, is a staple in cooking worldwide.
It imparts a distinctive, pungent flavor that becomes more mellow and slightly sweet when cooked.
It’s an essential flavor base in this sauce.
Ground Cinnamon
Ground cinnamon provides a warm, sweet-spicy flavor that enhances the complexity of the Worcestershire sauce.
While usually associated with sweet dishes, cinnamon can bring an intriguing twist to savory recipes.
Black Pepper
Black pepper, freshly ground, adds a pungent and mildly spicy flavor.
A common seasoning in various cuisines, its sharpness enhances the other flavors in this sauce.
Ground Cloves
Ground cloves have a strong, sweet, and slightly bitter flavor with a warm, distinctive aroma.
A little goes a long way to add depth to the sauce’s flavor profile.
Chili Powder
Chili powder gives the sauce a hint of heat without making it overly spicy.
It’s a blend of spices that usually includes ground chili peppers and other seasonings, like oregano, cumin, and garlic powder.
Molasses
Molasses is a thick, sweet syrup that’s a byproduct of sugar production.
Its rich, slightly smoky flavor contributes to the characteristic dark color and sweetness of Worcestershire sauce.
Lemon
The juice of a fresh lemon provides a natural tanginess that helps balance the richness and sweetness of the sauce.
It also adds a bit of freshness to the complex flavor profile.
How To Make Gluten Free Worcestershire Sauce
Step One: Take a medium-sized pot and add all the ingredients, leaving out the lemon juice for now. Warm this mixture on a medium heat setting until it reaches a gentle simmer, making sure to stir it until the sugar integrates fully.
Step Two: Next, reduce the heat to its lowest setting and let the sauce continue to simmer. After about 20 to 30 minutes, the sauce should have reduced in volume by around one-third.
Step Three: At this point, take the pot off the heat and mix in the lemon juice, ensuring it’s well incorporated. Allow the sauce to cool down.
Step Four: After the sauce has cooled, pour it through a strainer into an appropriate storage container, like a glass jar or bottle.
Step Five: Your homemade gluten-free Worcestershire sauce can now be stored in the refrigerator. When kept chilled, it should remain good for up to one month.
Other Things To Consider When Making Gluten Free Worcestershire Sauce
Choosing the Right Ingredients
When making gluten-free Worcestershire sauce, it’s essential to verify that each ingredient is indeed gluten-free.
Some products may be processed in facilities that also handle wheat, which could lead to cross-contamination.
Reading labels and checking for a gluten-free certification can ensure your sauce remains safe to consume.
Tamari vs. Coconut Aminos
The choice between tamari and coconut aminos can affect the final flavor of your sauce.
Tamari has a deeper, more robust flavor, while coconut aminos are a bit sweeter. If you’re avoiding soy, opt for the coconut aminos.
Adjusting the Flavor
Remember, you can always tweak the ingredients to suit your preference.
If you like your sauce a bit sweeter, add more brown sugar or molasses. If you prefer it tangier, consider adding more vinegar or lemon juice.
Storage Options
Storing your Worcestershire sauce in a glass jar or bottle can help preserve its flavors.
Make sure your container is well-cleaned and has a tight-fitting lid to maintain the sauce’s quality.
Use in Recipes
This homemade gluten-free Worcestershire sauce can be used in a variety of recipes, just like the store-bought version.
It can enhance the flavor of meats, soups, stews, marinades, and more.
Consider doubling the recipe if you find yourself using it frequently.
Time Factor
While this sauce takes a bit of time to prepare, it’s a relatively simple process and the outcome is worth it.
The sauce’s flavor develops over time, so consider making it a day ahead of when you plan to use it.
What Can I Eat With This Sauce?
Meat Dishes
This gluten-free Worcestershire sauce can be used as a marinade for various meats, including steaks, chicken, and pork.
It adds a deep, savory flavor that pairs excellently with grilled or roasted meats.
You can also use it to baste meats while they’re cooking to enhance their flavor.
Seafood
Worcestershire sauce is a classic addition to seafood dishes.
Drizzle it over grilled fish or use it in a marinade for shrimp. It can also add depth to seafood stews or soups.
Vegetarian and Vegan Dishes
This sauce can be used to add umami flavor to tofu, tempeh, or vegetable stir-fries.
It can also be used in vegetarian and vegan gravy recipes to add a deeper, richer flavor.
Soups and Stews
A few dashes of Worcestershire sauce can add complexity and depth to soups and stews.
It’s particularly good in beef stew, tomato soup, and chili.
Cocktails
Worcestershire sauce is a key ingredient in certain cocktails, like the Bloody Mary or the Caesar.
Its savory, tangy flavor complements the other ingredients and adds complexity to the drink.
Condiments and Dips
You can add Worcestershire sauce to homemade barbecue sauce, ketchup, or other condiments for an extra kick.
It’s also great in dips, like a French onion dip or a blue cheese dip for wings.
Gluten Free Worcestershire Sauce Recipe
This homemade, gluten-free Worcestershire sauce is a robust, tangy condiment that brings a complex depth of flavor to your dishes. Made with apple cider vinegar, tamari, and an array of spices, it's delightfully savory with a hint of sweetness from molasses. Its rich, umami-laden taste is perfect for enhancing steaks, marinades, or cocktails.
Ingredients
- 2 cups apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup tamari or coconut aminos (gluten-free soy sauce alternative)
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 cup molasses
- Juice of 1 small lemon
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine all ingredients except for the lemon juice.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer for about 20-30 minutes, until it has reduced by about a third.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the lemon juice. Stir thoroughly.
- Allow the sauce to cool. Once cooled, strain it into a suitable container, like a jar or a bottle.
- Store your homemade gluten-free Worcestershire sauce in the refrigerator. It should keep for up to a month.
Notes
Before you start, please note that some of these ingredients, like tamari or coconut aminos, are used as alternatives to traditional ingredients that contain gluten. Always check the labels to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
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Related guides and recipes you may want to see:
- Does Worcestershire Sauce Have Gluten?
- Easy BBQ Sauce Recipe Without Worcestershire
- White Wine Worcestershire Sauce Recipe
Hello, I’m Jeremy, a sauce enthusiast and taste trailblazer! My endless pursuit of new flavors has led me on a journey to master sauce making at home, along with try out a range of exciting brands and sauce offerings. Now I share my recipes, tips and recommendations on WeWantTheSauce to help fellow foodies find the perfect sauces.