⭐ Soy Sauce (Best Fat-Free Option)
1 teaspoon per 1 tablespoon Fish SauceSoy sauce contains glutamates that provide umami similar to fish sauce, enhancing the savory notes without introducing fishiness. Its liquid form integrates smoothly into the custard mixture.
Use a slightly reduced amount to avoid overpowering the sweet elements; start with 1 teaspoon per tablespoon of fish sauce and adjust to taste. Watch for color changes as soy sauce is darker.
The final bread pudding will have a subtle savory depth that complements the sweetness, maintaining a balanced flavor profile close to the original intent.