Soy sauce - a staple in Asian cooking - is a made by fermenting boiled soybeans and roasted barley or wheat.

While there is essentially one main type of soy sauce produced in the United States, China and Japan produce a number of varieties with a diverse range in color and flavor. Light soy sauce is thinner and saltier than dark soy sauce. Japanese tamari is thick, rich and extremely dark.

Soy sauce is used to flavor soups, sauces, marinades, meat, fish and vegetables, as well as for a table condiment.

Because of the dangers associated with consuming genetically-modified soybeans, opt for organic soy or tamari sauce (wheat and gluten-free) made with non-GMO soybeans.

Store soy sauce in a cool, dark place.