Oyster sauce is a thick, dark brown condiment made from oyster extracts, sugar, salt, and water. It originated in China and is commonly used in Asian cuisine to enhance the flavor of dishes. The sauce has a rich, savory taste, often described as umami, which adds depth to stir-fries, marinades, and dipping sauces. While it is called oyster sauce, it typically contains little to no actual oysters in many commercial varieties. Instead, it relies on the flavoring from the oyster extracts. Vegetarian and vegan alternatives are also available, made from mushrooms or other plant-based ingredients to mimic the original flavor.