If you’re looking for vegetarian condiments that are free of onions, garlic, and eggs—whether for dietary restrictions, allergies, religious or personal preference — there are still many delicious options to explore. Here are some common condiments that typically don’t contain onions, garlic, or eggs, and can easily be found or made at home in versions without them. Click on the links below to go to the products that I regularly use when preparing Shojin cuisine.
Ketchup
- Basic ketchup is made from tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, and spices, and many commercial brands do not include onions, garlic, or eggs. Always check the label to ensure it’s free of these ingredients.
Mustard
- Mustard is typically made from mustard seeds, vinegar, and spices, without onions, garlic, or eggs. Varieties like yellow mustard, Dijon mustard, and whole-grain mustard are generally safe, though it’s good to double-check the label for any additives.
Soy Sauce
- Traditional soy sauce is made from soybeans, wheat, salt, and water, making it a safe condiment without onions, garlic, or eggs. Tamari is a gluten-free alternative, often made without wheat, and can also be a good choice.
Vinegar-Based Hot Sauce
- Many hot sauces, especially those that are vinegar-based like Tabasco, do not include onions, garlic, or eggs. Check ingredient lists, as many hot sauces like one of my favorites Frank’s RedHot may contain these for flavor.
Tahini
- Tahini, a paste made from ground sesame seeds, is naturally free of onions, garlic, and eggs. It is often used in Middle Eastern cuisine as a base for sauces and dressings.
Sweet Chili Sauce
- Sweet chili sauce, commonly used in Thai cuisine, is typically made with sugar, vinegar, and red chilies. Many versions are free from onions, garlic, and eggs, though it’s good to verify the ingredient list.
Barbecue Sauce (Without Onions/Garlic)
- While some barbecue sauces may contain onions and garlic, there are brands that offer versions without them. Additionally, homemade BBQ sauce can be made using tomato paste, vinegar, sugar, and spices without using onions, garlic, or eggs.
Pesto (Without Garlic)
- Traditional pesto often contains garlic and cheese, but you can find or make garlic-free and egg-free versions by substituting garlic with lemon juice and using nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a vegan version.
Fruit-Based Chutneys
- Chutneys made from fruits like mango, apricot, or tamarind often don’t include onions, garlic, or eggs. They offer a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs well with many dishes.
Pickles and Pickle Relish
- Most pickles and pickle relishes are made with cucumbers, vinegar, and spices, typically without onions, garlic, or eggs. Just be cautious of flavored varieties, which may add garlic or onion for seasoning.
Salsa (Without Onions or Garlic)
- While many salsas contain onions and garlic, you can easily find or make versions without them. Fresh salsas can be made using tomatoes, peppers, cilantro, lime juice, and salt for a flavorful, egg-free option.
Miso Paste
- Miso is a fermented soybean paste commonly used in Japanese cuisine. It’s naturally free from onions, garlic, and eggs, and adds a rich umami flavor to soups, dressings, and sauces.
Chili Oil (Without Garlic)
- Chili oil is typically made by infusing oil with chili peppers. Some varieties contain garlic, but you can easily find or make versions without garlic or onions. Chili oil adds heat and flavor to dishes without the need for eggs.