Soy sauce is a dark, savory, and slightly salty liquid condiment made from fermented soybeans, wheat, salt, and water. It has a rich, umami flavor that adds depth to a variety of dishes, commonly used in Asian cuisine but popular worldwide for its versatility. With a smooth, sometimes slightly sweet or tangy profile depending on the type, soy sauce enhances marinades, stir-fries, sauces, soups, and dipping sauces. The fermentation process gives it complex flavors and a dark brown to almost black color, with different varieties ranging from light to dark, each with distinct flavors and salt levels.