โญ Soy Sauce (light, diluted) (Best Gluten-Free Option)
1 teaspoon soy sauce + 1 teaspoon water per 1 teaspoon fish sauceSoy sauce contains glutamates that provide umami similar to fish sauce, which helps maintain the savory-sweet balance in cupcakes. Light soy sauce is less intense and less salty than dark soy sauce, making it a better match when diluted.
To ensure the flavor does not dominate, dilute the soy sauce with water as specified. Mix thoroughly into the batter to avoid localized salty spots.
The final cupcakes will retain a subtle umami note that enhances depth without imparting a fishy taste, preserving the intended sweetness and texture of the cupcake.