Best Natto Substitutes
What Can I Use Instead of Natto in a Recipe?
Use the same amount as the original. Mix 1 tbsp miso with 1 tsp soy sauce for fermented, umami-rich paste. Less sticky than natto; best for flavoring rice bowls.
Need to replace Natto in a recipe? These 5 alternatives have you covered. From pantry staples to specialty swaps, this guide walks through every practical Natto replacement you can use in cooking and baking — with the ratios you need to get it right. Ideal if you need to save money at the store or keep things plant-based. The top pick is Miso + Soy Sauce — it's the closest match for most recipes. Mix 1 tbsp miso with 1 tsp soy sauce for fermented, umami-rich paste. Less sticky than natto; best for flavoring rice bowls.
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Get ratios for Natto →All Natto Substitutes (5 options)
Mix 1 tbsp miso with 1 tsp soy sauce for fermented, umami-rich paste. Less sticky than natto; best for flavoring rice bowls.
Rehydrate briefly or use dry; concentrated flavor; restores string texture when mixed with liquid.
Smoother, less stringy texture; same funky umami flavor with more uniform consistency.
Very concentrated fermented soy flavor; sparse strings; add water or dashi to restore some texture.
Mix 1 umeboshi (pickled plum) with 1 tsp soy sauce. Approximates natto's savory-umami punch, but texture differs completely.
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Tips for Substituting Natto
For most recipes, Miso + Soy Sauce is the best starting point. Mix 1 tbsp miso with 1 tsp soy sauce for fermented, umami-rich paste. Less sticky than natto; best for flavoring rice bowls. Going plant-based? Natto Paste, Freeze-Dried Natto are both vegan-friendly options that work well in most recipes. Watching your grocery budget? Natto Powder is the most wallet-friendly swap and does a solid job in most uses. If you need a gluten-free alternative, Natto Paste fits the bill without the gluten.
Common Questions About Natto Substitutes
The best substitute for Natto is Miso + Soy Sauce. Use the same amount. Mix 1 tbsp miso with 1 tsp soy sauce for fermented, umami-rich paste. Less sticky than natto; best for flavoring rice bowls.
This guide lists 5 Natto alternatives. The best one depends on your recipe, dietary needs, and what you have on hand — check the substitution cards above for details on each.
Natto Paste is a great plant-based alternative to Natto. Smoother, less stringy texture; same funky umami flavor with more uniform consistency.
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