Soy Sauce

It comes in three grades: light, medium and dark. Lighter kinds of soy sauce are commonly used for dipping, while dark soy sauce, also known as black soy sauce, tends to be used in cooking. Dark soy sauce is aged longer, making it slightly sweeter and thicker. Molasses or caramel may be added to deepen its color and thicken its consistency. Heating dark soy sauce releases its full, rich flavor in sauces and gravies; it is also used in stir-fries and noodle dishes.