Choose your substitute based on the dish: hoisin for thick stir-fries, soy sauce + sugar for marinades, mushroom soy for vegan dishes, fish sauce for pungent umami, black bean for bold flavors, vegetarian mushroom or soy-hoisin mix for balanced alternatives.

For mixes, stir ingredients (like soy sauce and sugar or soy and hoisin) in a small bowl until evenly combined and sugar is dissolved.

Apply the substitute according to the specified ratios: for example, use equal parts hoisin, mushroom soy, black bean, or vegetarian mushroom sauces, half the fish sauce amount, or mixes as noted.

Adjust seasoning by tasting during cooking; add soy sauce to balance sweetness or sugar to balance saltiness where needed.

Incorporate the substitute into your dish during cooking, stirring to coat ingredients evenly and allow flavors to meld.

Taste the finished dish and adjust if needed, remembering to add slowly to avoid over-salting or over-sweetening.