Demerara Sugar Substitute: What to Use Instead of Demerara Sugar

If you’re looking for substitutes for demerara sugar, we’ve got you covered. We list down every substitute you can use instead of demerara sugar in our article today.

Demerara Sugar Substitute: What to Use Instead of Demerara Sugar
Demerara Sugar Substitute

Looking for something to use instead of demerara sugar? You’re in the right place. Today, we’re covering some of the best substitutes for demerara sugar – from muscovado to regular brown sugar. Let’s dive in!

What is Demerara Sugar?

Demerara sugar is under brown sugar. It’s made from sugar cane, and is characterized by its coarse grain and crunchy texture. As a large-grain sugar, demerara sugar is best for adding the crunch you need for baked goods! It’s also used as a topping and sweetener for beverages.

It has a rich flavor profile, with a caramel or toffee flavor. It also originates from the British colony of Demerara, which is now known as Guyana. If you need to know more about this sugar, we have some information right here for you.

However, you may be needing a demerara sugar substitute. Luckily, we have a list for you!

Substitutes for Demerara Sugar

01 Raw Sugar or Turbinado Sugar

Turbinado sugar is partially granulated sugar that is coarse in texture. It’s actually quite close to demerara sugar’s crunchy texture, so this sugar is a pretty good subtitute!

It retains some natural molasses, so the flavor profile is also caramel-like with a subtle molasses flavor. If you’re looking for turbinado sugar, you might know it as raw sugar! However, don’t be fooled – true raw sugars isn’t quite healthy for consumption, so turbinado sugar has to undergo some more processing.

This demerara sugar substitute is great for toppings, mixing in with pastries, and as a sweetener for coffee and tea.

02 Light Brown Sugar

This type of brown sugar has a lower amount of molasses content. Light brown sugar has a golden brown color with a milder taste.

Light brown sugar an all-around substitute for many recipes, and it usually results in moist, delicious pastries. Light brown sugar is also great as a crunchy topping! All in all, if you’re looking for a quick substitute for demerara sugar, light brown sugar is the way to go.

03 White Sugar or Granulated Sugar

Made from refined sugar cane or sugar beets, this popular white sugar is the one you usually find in grocery stores. If you’re curious, granulated sugar is also known as table sugar or refined white sugar! Granulated sugar is typically used as a sweetener for baked goods, savory dishes, and different beverages.

White sugar typically comes in four types: granulated sugar, caster sugar, powdered sugar, and sugar cubes. These are all good demerara sugar substitutes!

Granulated sugar doesn’t have the molasses flavor we know and love. In fact, all the molasses has been processed out of granulated sugar. Granulated sugar or white sugar is great for drinks and sprinkling into food.

Caster sugar is a more refined sugar with smaller crystal sizes. Like granulated sugar or white sugar, caster sugar best for sweetening cold drinks and incorporating sweetness into desserts like meringues.

Powdered sugar, or confectioner’s sugar, is a specialty sugar typically used in baking. Unlike regular sugar or white sugar, it’s ground to a powder and mixed with cornstarch to prevent caking!

Sugar cubes, meanwhile, is just white sugar pressed into cubes, used to sweeten hot drinks.

04 Sanding Sugar or Sand Sugar

Sanding sugar is a type of large-grain sugar and is similar to decorating sugar. It’s used as a sweetener and topping for most baked goods! Sanding sugar is also typically made from dried sugar syrup or turbinado sugar. You can combine gel food coloring and turbinado sugar before going through the refining process to make sand sugar.

After, you can put it in an airtight container. Like all demerara sugar substitutes, you should store it properly in a cool, dry place!

05 Muscovado Sugar

Muscovado sugar is a type of unrefined sugar that retains all the molasses possible! It’s minimally processed, has large crystals and typically comes in a golden brown color that is slightly darker than most sugars. Like demerara sugar, the sugar crystals are large-grain and it also has a toffee-like flavor.

While it has the same nutritional content as white sugar, this natural sweetener comes with more minerals, like magnesium, potassium, calcium, and iron. It also comes with antioxidants!

It has more health benefits, but don’t be fooled – it’s still sugar, and sugar intake is best taken in moderation.

06 Raw Cane Sugar

If you’re looking for the most natural, unrefined sugar there is, you can look for raw cane sugar. It comes in a variety colors, which can be dark brown or colorless. It’s sweet, with a subtle molasses flavor. The milder flavor from molasses is great as a sweetener for most beverages!

Demerara sugar is under raw cane sugar, but there are other sugars in this type that can be used as a demerara sugar substitute. Turbinado and evaporated cane sugar are part of it!

07 Dark Brown Sugar

This type of sugar comes in a darker golden brown color! Dark brown sugar has a rich flavor and nearly double the amount of molasses in comparison to other sugars. Dark brown sugar also has the toffee flavor we all know and love about demerara sugar, making it a good substitute.

08 Maple Sugar

Maple sugar is commonly found in Canada, but you can also make it yourself at home! It’s. form of natural sweetener that is made from maple syrup. You can add maple syrup to a saucepan over medium-high heat until it reaches 260 degrees Fahrenheit. Once it reaches the desired temperature, you can remove the pan from the heat.

Stir until the maple syrup transforms into sugar crystals. It will have a delicate texture. You can use a food processor to get the clumps to form crystals and turn it into a more granulated sugar.

09 Coconut Sugar or Coconut Palm Sugar

Looking for vegan sugar? Coconut sugar may be the one for you! It comes from the sap of a coconut palm tree, not the coconuts themselves. Aside from being plant-based, it’s also minimally processed, and has a lot of health benefits!

Coconut sugar can help prevent low blood sugar, hypoglycemia, and blood sugar spikes. It has a coconut flavor that you’ll love!

Where to Use Demerara Sugar

Demerara sugar can be added to your favorite beverages, like tea and coffee. Like other types of sugar, it’s also a great addition to many pastries and savory dishes.

Health Benefits of Demerara Sugar

Health Benefits of Demerara Sugar
Health Benefits of Demerara Sugar

01 Has Vitamins and Minerals

Demerara sugar has molasses, which doesn’t just contribute to the molasses flavor – it’s also packed with vitamins and minerals, too! Calcium, iron, and vitamins B and B5 are only some examples. As a result, you won’t have to suffer from vitamin B depletion, and you get to benefit from certain nutrients, too!

02 Has Little Processing

Unlike other types of sugar, demerara sugar is a healthier alternative and undergoes minimal processing. Raw sugar, among all types of sugar, retains nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. With the minimally processed demerara sugar, you get to enjoy health benefits!

03 Helps in Nourishing the Skin

Aside from being a good ingredient in most recipes, demerara sugar is also great for your skin! It can remove dead skin, for one thing, without causing tears. It also contains glycolic acid, which can help in skin regeneration.

Yes, you can use it as an exfoliant, but you can also use demerara sugar as a skin moisturizer. It can keep your skin properly moisturized and hydrated.

04 Promotes Better Immunity

Unlike white sugar or granulated sugar, demerara sugar doesn’t affect the metabolization of calcium. Plus, aside from it boosting your immunity, it can keep you healthy and not result in any side effects.

05 Reduces Inflammation in the Body

As an all-natural substance and unlike other types of sugar, demerara sugar doesn’t trigger any bacterial infection in the body. It’s a good substitute for anti-histamines!

How to Store Demerara Sugar

You can store sugar in an airtight container. Keep it in a cool, dry place in your pantry, and make sure moisture doesn’t get in! Any kind of moisture with granulated sugar can make it clumpy.

Demerara Sugar Recipe

Looking for some demerara sugar recipes? We’ve got you. You can substitute other sugars for this recipe – either substitute granulated sugar or use popular sugar alternatives like raw sugar, brown sugar or coconut sugar.

Chocolate Chip Muffins

What You Will Need:

This recipe calls for demerara sugar or brown sugar, among other alternatives, flour, baking powder, butter, eggs, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and semi-sweet chocolate chips.

Step 1:

Start the recipe by preheating the oven. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 2:

Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and chocolate chips together in a mixing bowl.

Step 3:

In another bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract together. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.

Step 4:

Pour the batter into 12-muffin cups and bake for around twenty minutes. Let cool and serve warm.

FAQs:

Is demerara sugar good or bad for health?

Demerara sugar is good for your health as long as it’s taken in moderation. You can find demerara sugar to be beneficial as long as you control your portions!

What is the difference between white sugar and demerara sugar?

White sugar and demerara sugar actually have the same caloric content! However, white sugar is more refined, and demerara sugar has more trace minerals in it, which leads to many health benefits.

Can demerara sugar be used for cooking?

Yes, demerara sugar can be used for cooking! It can also be used for baking and as a general sweetener for beverages and food.

Substitute For Grapeseed Oil: Top 9 Healthy Alternatives

Find out the best substitute for grapeseed oil, their health benefits, what they are used for, and all the important details to help you make the right choice.

Substitute For Grapeseed Oil: Top 9 Healthy Alternatives
substitute for grapeseed oil

There are some recipes in our family that require using grapeseed oil. However, it can be hard to find in stores. But the good news is you can get a substitute for grapeseed oil, depending on what you need it for. If I need it for cooking, any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil will do so that my dish retains the prominent flavor. Sometimes I tend to switch oils for better health so I go for an oil that’s high in polyunsaturated fats, like sunflower or corn oil. 

Check out this list of the best substitutes for grapeseed oil.

What Is Grapeseed Oil?

A byproduct of manufacturing wine is grapeseed oil. Grape seeds are left over after pressing grapes to make wine. These discarded grape seeds are used to make grapeseed oil. Grapeseed oil is used as a natural skincare. Additionally, it is promoted as a healthy substitute for vegetable oil. With a hint of nuttiness, grapeseed oil has an overall neutral flavor with a clean taste and can be used for all sorts of cooking.

Is Grapeseed Oil Good For You?

Nutritional Info About Grapeseed Oil
Nutritional Info About Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed cooking oil has a high content of polyunsaturated fats which is mostly omega-6 fatty acids. While too much of this can cause health problems according to some studies, there’s yet to be any conclusive evidence. Grapeseed oil also contains Vitamin E which is an antioxidant that protects us from harmful radicals. 

There is some debate over the health benefits of grapeseed oil, particularly because of the way the oil is prepared. Chemical solvents like hexane are used to produce grapeseed oil that is sold commercially. Hexane is categorized as a neurotoxin and an air contaminant. It is yet to be found what impact ingesting these solvents in trace doses has on people. During processing, grapeseed oil may also be heated to extremely high temperatures, which could cause the oil to oxidize and spoil.

Cold-pressed or expeller-pressed grapeseed oil is produced without heat or chemical solvents. Instead of solvent-produced oil, this is a better option. 

Although the high smoke point of 420°F (216°C) of grapeseed oil makes it a good choice for baking, cooking, and adding to salads, the high content of polyunsaturated fats reacts with oxygen in high heat and can spoil the oil and release free radicals that can damage your cells. That’s why it’s not recommended to use grapeseed oil for frying. 

Note: The smoke point of an oil is the temperature at which the oil starts to break down. Heating it above its smoke point will destroy the flavor, and the nutrients, and release harmful free radicals. 

Substitute For Grapeseed Oil: Top 9 Healthy Alternatives

ProsConsBest For
Vegetable OilNeutral flavor
Heart-healthy
Hydrogenated form is not good for the heartAll types of cooking and baking
Avocado OilSlightly nutty flavor
Multiple health benefits
Flavor is not neutralBaking, salad dressings
Almond OilMild nutty flavor
Multiple health benefits
Flavor is not neutral
Needs pairing with complementary flavors
Baking
Canola OilLight flavorGrilling, baking, salad dressing
Peanut OilHealth benefitsHigh in saturated fatsStir-frying
Sunflower OilHighly versatile
Full of nutrients
Can spoil fastFrying, stir-frying, deep-frying,
roasting, sautéing, and baking
Corn OilAffordable
Heart-healthy
Deep frying
Safflower OilNo flavorMay be allergic for someFrying, salad dressings
Olive OilFull of health benefitsAll types are not suitable for all dishesLight olive oil for cooking and baking
Extra virgin olive oil for dips, soups,
salads

01 Vegetable Oil

Typically, canola, coconut, corn, cottonseed, olive, palm, palm kernel, peanut, safflower, soybean, and sunflower oils are blended to make vegetable oil so you can use any of these as substitutes for vegetable oil. Vegetable oil is an excellent substitute for grape seed oil and a great ingredient for baking because it has a neutral taste and a smoke point of about 400°F (204°C). Vegetable oil contains significant amounts of polyunsaturated fats, one of the good fats that are necessary for a balanced diet and can help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. However, beware of hydrogenated vegetable oil in packaged foods as these contain trans fats that can cause heart diseases.

02 Avocado Oil

With a high 520°F (271°C) smoking point, avocado oil is ideal for high-temperature cooking and has a subtle nutty flavor that won’t overpower other flavors, making avocado oil the right replacement for grapeseed oil. As a base for salad dressings, it tastes exceptionally well and is also excellent for baking recipes. The health advantages of avocado oil are similar to those of grape seed oil. It’s loaded with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats like oleic acid and omega-9, which helps lower cholesterol and enhance heart health. It’s also a wonderful source of vitamin E which is great for your skin. 

03 Almond Oil

Almond oil is an excellent grapeseed oil alternative when it comes to baking. It has a mild nutty flavor that goes well with many baked goods. It has the same smoke point as grape seed oil, which is around 420°F (215°C). Although it has a moderate flavor, almond oil is not quite as neutral as grape seed oil, so you should combine it with other flavors that go well. Almond oil is loaded with healthy ingredients, much like grape seed oil. It has a lot of beneficial polyunsaturated fats, is low in saturated fat, and is a wonderful source of vitamin C.

04 Canola Oil

Canola oil substitute grapeseed oil is a great choice for cooking. Due to their close similarities, canola oil is the ideal alternative to grapeseed oil. Rapeseed is the source of canola oil, which is light in color and flavor. It is a good source of  omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats that are healthy for your heart according to the American Heart Association. With a smoke point of 400°F (204°C), it can be used for a variety of cooking methods, including grilling, baking, and dressing salads. So, if you are wondering can I substitute grapeseed oil for canola oil, you absolutely can!

05 Peanut Oil

The smoke point of this high-heat oil is roughly 450°F(232°C), making it a popular oil for stir-frying Asian cuisine. Plus, its slightly nutty flavor and sweet taste add to the earthiness of the dish and makes it flavorful without being overpowering. If you’ve run out of peanut oil, use one of the 10 best oils you can use as peanut oil subs

Peanut oil is also rich in monounsaturated fats that can help regulate your cholesterol level and vitamin E that’s essential for maintaining skin health. So, both in terms of cooking oil replacement and health benefits, it can stand in place of grapeseed oil in your cooking. However, peanut oil has a high content of saturated fats, so use it in moderation. 

06 Sunflower Oil

When it comes to frying, this is the standard oil, and for good reason. Sunflower oil is perfect for frying, stir-frying, deep-frying, roasting, sautéing, and baking due to its extremely high smoke point of 450°F(232°C) and mild nutty taste. There are various types of sunflower oil, some of which are healthier than others. High oleic sunflower oils, or mono- and polyunsaturated fat-rich sunflower oils, can raise good cholesterol and lower bad cholesterol. Just remember that sunflower oil can spoil quickly and it’s best to refrigerate it. If you’re thinking does oil go bad, you might be surprised!

07 Corn Oil

The oil that is produced from the germ of the maize plant is called corn oil, and it is relatively inexpensive. The healthiest substitute is organic, cold-pressed corn oil since it contains mono- and polyunsaturated fats that support healthy cholesterol levels. Corn oil would be a perfect grapeseed oil alternative for deep frying due to its health advantages and smoke point of 410°F(210°C). 

08 Safflower Oil

Safflower oil is flavorless and rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, much like sunflower oil. It has a high burn point of about 510°F(265°C), which makes it suitable for frying, and it doesn’t harden when chilled, which makes it perfect for salad dressing. However, if you’re allergic to safflower, it’s better to avoid using safflower oil

09 Olive Oil

Can you substitute grapeseed oil for olive oil is a common question. You can but you need to know the types of olive oils. Extra virgin olive oil is made from the first press of olives, has a higher content of antioxidants, is more acidic in taste, and has a green tinge. Virgin or light olive oil is produced from the second press and has a lighter flavor. It is yellow or champagne in color.

Extra-virgin olive oil has a smoke point of around 325°F (163°C) and works well as a finishing oil for dips, salads, soups, bread, and salad dressings or emulsifying component when making homemade mayonnaise. Light olive oil, on the other hand, has a light, smooth, and subtle taste, with a higher smoke point of about 465°F (163°C), making it good for baking and cooking.

Olive oil is high in monounsaturated or healthy fats, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids, which lowers the risk of heart disease and stroke

Note: Coconut oil is not part of this list as it’s high in saturated fats that are not heart-healthy.

Canola Oil Vs Grapeseed Oil

In the grapeseed oil vs canola oil debate, both cooking oils are good for your heart. Their high unsaturated fat content encourages healthy cholesterol levels. High quantities of important omega fatty acids are also present in both oils. However, the canola vs grapeseed oil discussion cannot ignore that canola oil offers more health advantages than grape seed oil since it contains more omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E while having lower levels of saturated fat.

FAQs

What Is The Best Substitute For Grapeseed Oil In Baking

As a grapeseed oil substitute for baking, use light olive oil, vegetable oil, avocado oil, or sunflower oil. 

Can I Use Grapeseed Oil Instead Of Olive Oil?

Can you use grapeseed oil instead of olive oil can be an option for baking. Grapeseed oil in place of olive oil won’t have the same flavor.

Can You Substitute Olive Oil For Grapeseed Oil?

In most recipes, light olive oil works well as a grapeseed oil substitute. On the other hand, because extra virgin olive oil has a lower smoke point and a stronger flavor, it is not a great replacement.

The Best Substitute For Dill In Pickles And Other Dishes

Learn what to use as a substitute for dill with other herbs and spices in your dishes and pickles and make your food taste even better.

The Best Substitute For Dill In Pickles And Other Dishes
The Best Substitute For Dill In Pickles And Other Dishes

Dill is a key ingredient in pickles and other dishes but if you can’t find it or don’t have any fresh herbs on hand, there are many substitute herbs and spices you can use. 

Each substitute for dill has its own unique flavor.

Some of these dill substitutes are interchangeable, while others should be used in specific dishes. While some of the replacements have a stronger flavor than dill, they are worth trying in a pinch.

This post will look at the top substitutes for dill and how to use them in the right proportions to get a flavorful dish that doesn’t overpower the olfactory senses or your taste buds. 

What Is Dill?

The Best Substitute For Dill In Pickles And Other Dishes 1
Nutritional Facts Of Dill

Belonging to the celery and parsley family Apiaceae, dill is an annual herb native to the Eurasian region. 

Both its leaves and seeds are used as a seasoning or herb in various cuisines in Central Asia and Europe. 

A milder cousin to caraway seeds, dill has a grassy and fresh taste with undertones of citrus and licorice flavors. 

Keep in mind that during the hot weather, the dill plant flowers or bolts. 

The flavor of the leaves becomes less aromatic and bitter. 

Dillweed or dill weed refers to dill leaves and is used as a spice or seasoning in pickles. 

Both fresh and dried dill leaves are used in cooking to add flavor to food. 

The aromatic feathery fronds of the dill plant are used to add flavor to sauces made from yogurt, soups, seafood, and fish dishes, and make dill pickle. 

How To Use Dill In Cooking

The Best Substitute For Dill In Pickles And Other Dishes 2
Ways To Use Dill In Cooking

Dill is excellent to use as a garnish because of its distinct flavor, which makes a little go a long way. 

Dill leaves have a lovely feathery texture, and even a tiny sprig may give food a particular scent. 

Along with buttermilk, dill is a key element in giving homemade ranch dressing its unique taste.

It is also tasty in salads.

Dill weed should only be added just before serving because the longer it is cooked, the more flavor it loses. 

When cooked, dill seed, or the fruit of the dill plant, increases in flavor and fragrance. 

Dill seed should be roasted in a hot frying pan to release its aroma before being used in recipes as dried herbs.

Substitutes For Dill

Substitute For DillHow To Use
Dried dill as substitute for
fresh dill
1 teaspoon of dried dill for 1 tablespoon of
fresh dill
ParsleyEqual parts
CilantroOne part of dill to half part of cilantro
FennelEqual parts
Fresh TarragonEqual parts
Dried TarragonA teaspoon of dried tarragon for
one tablespoon of fresh dill weed
ThymeOne part of dill to half part of thyme
Fresh BasilEqual parts
Dried BasilHalf part dried basil to one part of fresh dill
ChervilEqual parts
SageHalf part of sage to one part of dill
RosemaryHalf part of rosemary to one part of dill
MintHalf or one-third part of mint for one part
of dill
OreganoA pinch of oregano to one part of dill
Bay LeafOne to two bay leaves to one part of dill
GarlicUse powdered garlic
Substitute For Vegetable Oil In BrowniesSubstitution Ratio
Olive oil1:1
Butter1:1
Margarine1:1
Canola oil1:1
Sunflower oil1:1
Avocado oil1:1
Coconut oil1:1
Shortening1:1
Mashed bananas3/4th part of mashed banana to
one part of vegetable oil
Yogurt1:1

Choose any suitable substitutes for dill to make up for a similar taste and flavor when you’ve run out of this herb. 

There are several options so that you won’t be left wondering what to use instead of dill in the middle of cooking. 

As dill has a distinct flavor of licorice and anise, you can use alternatives from the same family to come as close as possible to the taste and flavor. 

However, if you’re not a fan of dill and want some other flavor of herbs and seasonings to perk things up, you can always choose something else.

Here’s a list of what you can use as a dill alternative.

  1. Dried Dill

Dried dill is the most suitable dill substitute for fresh dill. 

And vice versa. 

Thus, you can use fresh and dried dill interchangeably in all types of recipes that call for dill to be used. 

Dried dill has more flavor packed in them and you should use it in smaller amounts when using this as a fresh dill alternative.

Conversely, when using fresh dill to substitute dried dill, you need to use more than the recipe calls for to make up for the flavor potency required in the dish. 

To make things easier for you, here’s a handy conversion formula. 

A teaspoon of dried dill substitute for fresh dill should be enough if your recipe calls for one tablespoon of fresh dill. 

  1. Parsley

As parsley comes from the same family, use it easily as the best dill substitute. 

As well as the green color that will give your soups, meat, fish, and vegetable dishes an appetizing look, the subtle flavor and taste of fresh parsley as a dill substitute won’t disappoint you and your guests. 

You can use parsley as a garnish too although it doesn’t resemble dill. 

Parsley has a mild flavor so you might want to start by using it in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute for dill. 

Then increase the amount of parsley if you want a bolder flavor. 

  1. Cilantro

With a stronger flavor than parsley and a lot stronger than dill, you should use cilantro as a substitute for dill with caution.

People either hate or love cilantro. 

So, if you’re cooking for guests, you may want to use some other dill alternative with a delicate flavor. 

However, cilantro does fit in many dishes with its peppery taste, especially in dips, dressings, and as salad garnishes. 

Its freshness and the crunchiness of its stalk can add a bite to an otherwise mundane salad and work perfectly as a fresh dill substitute.

You can start by replacing one portion of dill with half portion of cilantro and adjust according to taste. 

  1. Fennel

Another herb to work as a fresh dill substitute is fennel. 

Fennel fronds and dill look very similar and only an expert would be able to tell the difference by looking at them. 

The anise-licorice flavor profile of fennel matches that of dill and works as a good substitute for dill. 

Besides garnishing, you can use fennel fronds to replace dill in vegetable, meat, and fish dishes. 

Don’t throw away the stems of fennel as cooking with them will add a nice flavor and a sweet taste. 

Use fennel as a dill spice substitute in equal parts. 

  1. Tarragon

Tarragon is another dill seasoning substitute that shares a similar anise flavor. 

Use fresh tarragon in equal parts to substitute for fresh dill in your recipes. 

However, if you’re going to substitute fresh dill with dried tarragon, for every tablespoon of fresh dill weed, use a teaspoon of dried tarragon. 

Tarragon as a substitute for dill works especially well in stews, as a garnish in soups, seafood dishes, in salad dressings, or as a condiment. 

There’s just one difference you should keep in mind. 

Fresh tarragon can sustain the heat from cooking better so if you want to tone down the flavor slightly, add it in the early cooking stage. 

Due to its ability to withstand high cooking temperatures, tarragon retains its flavor in baking and roasting. 

  1. Thyme

Thyme is a popular seasoning herb and chances are you have dried thyme somewhere in the kitchen cupboard to replace dried dill weed. 

As thyme comes from the mint family, you will get a slightly sweet taste and a stronger earthy flavor and use it as a dill substitute in soup. 

It can also be used in fish and meat marinades and roasting and baking recipes. 

Thyme can withstand cooking temperatures, unlike fresh dill weed. 

To tone down its flavor, it’s better to add thyme at the beginning of the cooking process. 

For the same reason – a stronger flavor – you should use half the amount of thyme for every part of the dill. 

This same attribute of thyme makes it a good seasoning herb for roasting, stewing, grilling, and baking as it can retain its distinct flavor. 

  1. Basil

A popular culinary herb in Italian and Asian cuisines, basil leaves have a sweet taste and a fresh aroma that complements dishes made with meat, tomatoes, or red sauces.

You’ll often see it as a topping on pizzas.

It also works great in soups, stews, salads, and marinades as one of the best substitutes for fresh dill weed. 

Use in equal parts if you want to replace fresh dill with fresh basil. 

However, as the flavor profile is not the same, you may start with half part of the dried basil for every part of the fresh dill and tweak the amount to adjust to your taste. 

  1. Chervil

Another substitute for dill is the chervil. 

Akin to parsley with a mild sweet licorice flavor, you can use chervil in sauces, soups, egg dishes, and poultry recipes. 

In French cuisines, chervil is used to lend a subtle taste and aroma to soups and stews. 

You can use chervil as a fresh dill weed substitute in equal parts and make any changes according to individual taste. 

  1. Sage

Sage makes a good dill substitute for salmon with its own distinct flavor of pine and woody notes

Rub sage on salmon to give it a nice earthy and warm flavor or use this to make herb butter. 

When cooking with sage, add it toward the beginning of the cooking process to tone down its strong flavor and prevent it from giving a bitter taste. 

Use fried sage crumbles as a topping to any dish to give it a milder flavor. 

As dill and sage have different flavor profiles, try using half the amount of sage to replace one part of dill. 

  1. Rosemary

Rosemary is a popular seasoning herb for cooking meat, especially in French, Italian, and Spanish cuisines. 

Besides being used in lamb, chicken, and pork dishes, rosemary is one of the best substitutes for dill for potatoes that are baked or roasted. 

For every part of the dill, use half the amount of rosemary as it has a stronger flavor. 

In sauces and salad dressings, rosemary adds a floral hint.

  1. Mint

Popular in Mediterranean cuisines, mint makes a nice fresh dill substitute, especially in yogurt sauces and dips like tzatziki. 

Use mint in salad dressings and other cold dishes to get the most of its sweet taste and a refreshing, lingering aftertaste that cleanses the palate. 

If you’re using lemon in a marinade or a salad dressing, add just a pinch of mint to balance the sourness of the lemon with the minty flavor. 

As mint has a strong flavor, use half or one-third of it to replace one part of dill so as not to drown out other flavors in your salad. 

  1. Oregano

Oregano is a well-known herb and is used a lot in Italian cooking to season pasta, pizza, soups, and stews. 

It has a strong flavor and using too much of it can overpower the main flavors in the dish. 

As a substitute for fresh or dried dill, use oregano sparingly at first and adjust according to taste. 

It’s better to use oregano in marinades and dressings instead of dill if you don’t have it at hand. 

  1. Bay Leaf

In Indian cuisines, bay leaf is a major ingredient to add flavor to any tampering.

Used in meat and vegetable dishes, bay leaves add variety in the taste when sauteed along with other whole spices. 

As a substitute for fresh or dried dill, use one to two leaves. 

Pro Tip: To impart more flavor, tear the bay leaves in half before adding. 

  1. Garlic

I know, garlic is not exactly a substitute for either fresh or dried dill but it’s one of my favorite bulbs to add more depth and flavor to soups, vegetable and meat stews, or any comfort food. 

If you don’t have any dill but want some oomph in a one-pot meal, garlic can be the game changer. 

It’s better to use garlic powder instead of dill as an alternative but if you have none, use the best garlic press to get some fresh garlic.

Dill Seed Substitute

The Best Substitute For Dill In Pickles And Other Dishes 3
Substitutes For Dill Seeds

Dill seed is the fruit of the dill plant and it’s more of a spice than a herb, unlike the dill weed. 

The dill weed is used to refer to the leaves and stems of the dill plant.

If your recipe asks you to use dill seeds, don’t make the mistake of using fresh dill weed instead. 

Dill seeds are more potent and have a more powerful flavor, making them the perfect partner for bread, soups, and vegetable dishes.  

Here’s a list of what you can use as a dill replacement.

  • Celery seeds

Use as a dry rub for meats and in potato salads and coleslaw instead of dill seeds.

The warm, grassy, and earthy flavor of celery seeds will not disappoint you.

Use in equal parts to get the best results.  

  • Caraway seeds

Caraway seeds have a pungent flavor and should be used in equal parts to dill for cooking cabbage dishes and soups that use cream. 

  • Coriander seeds

Used as whole or half-broken seeds in Asian fritters, coriander seeds can replace dill seeds to lend an intense aroma and crunch. 

Try using half part of the coriander seeds to replace the dill seeds and adjust as per taste. 

  • Fennel seeds

The licorice flavor of fennel seeds makes a good dill seed alternative. 

Use in equal parts to get the full burst of flavor. 

FAQs

What Is The Best Substitute For Fresh Dill In Pickles?

Use fresh tarragon as the best dill substitute for pickles.

What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Dill?

If you don’t have dill, you can use any other herbs like parsley, celery, tarragon, rosemary, thyme, chervil, basil, and fennel.

How Much Dried Dill Do I Substitute For Fresh Drill?

For every tablespoon of fresh dill, substitute with one teaspoon of dried dill.

How Much Is A Bunch Of Dill Equivalent To Dried Dill?

Dried dill is one-third the equivalent of a bunch of fresh dill.

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The Best Substitute For Dill In Pickles And Other Dishes
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What Substitute for Eggs in Baking? 18 Egg Alternatives and How to Use Them 

Eggs are not as ubiquitous as they used to be in every household. As the number of vegans is increasing – the USA alone has 6% vegans in 2022 – so is the tendency to replace eggs in baking and daily diet.  

Once thought of as an essential ingredient for baking, the case is not so anymore. 

In this post, we’re going to talk about what substitute for eggs in baking banana cakes, cookies, brownies, etc. without dampening the taste, texture, or flavor much. 

You may also like: Substitute for Coconut Milk For Your Favorite Recipes (2022)

Why Do We Use Eggs In Baking?

What Substitute for Eggs in Baking? 18 Egg Alternatives and How to Use Them  4
Why Do We Use Eggs In Baking

Eggs in baking are mainly used for four purposes. 

They act as binding agents that keep all the ingredients together and give it shape. 

In baking, eggs function as a leavening agent by trapping air pockets in between the food particles and helping them to rise when heated. As a result, the texture becomes light.

Eggs do have a flavor of their own that adds to the baking ingredients and enhances the final flavor

The liquid parts of eggs maintain the moisture of the ingredients and prevent the baked foods from getting dried. 

Last but not least, eggs help give a golden-brown appearance to savories, puffs, cakes, and pies. 

Why Don’t We Want To Use Eggs In Baking?

What Substitute for Eggs in Baking? 18 Egg Alternatives and How to Use Them  5
Why We Do and Dont Use Eggs in Baking

There are a few reasons why we may not want to use eggs in baking. 

We may have switched to a vegan lifestyle where we avoid using any foods derived from animals. 

Or, we could be allergic to eggs

There can also be simpler reasons like having run out of eggs or eggs have gone bad. 

Whatever it is, it’s good to know what is the best substitute for eggs in baking. 

What Substitute for Eggs in Baking? 18 Egg Alternatives and How to Use Them  6
Do or dont use eggs in baking

What Substitute for Eggs in Baking?

01. Buttermilk or Yogurt

If you’re planning to bake eggless muffins, cakes, and cupcakes, you can use ¼ cup of yogurt or buttermilk to replace eggs. 

Remember to use plain yogurt as flavored or sweet versions will change the flavor of the final product. 

Use the same proportion of buttermilk as you would yogurt. 

In case you’re wondering how to make buttermilk, here’s the simplest way.

  1. Take a cup of milk (8 ounces or 237 ml).
  2. Add a tablespoon (15 ml) of lemon juice or vinegar.
  3. Stir and set aside for 10 minutes.
  4. Use it as an egg substitute in baking.
What Substitute for Eggs in Baking? 18 Egg Alternatives and How to Use Them  7
How to Make Buttermilk

02. Baking soda and Vinegar 

You may be confused about what can you use as a substitute for an egg in baking. Don’t be! 

Just mix one tablespoon of vinegar with one teaspoon of baking soda to make your quick bread and cakes light and fluffy

The carbon dioxide that’s released when the baking soda reacts with the vinegar helps to keep your baked goods airy. To make room for the released gas, you may want to take a large bowl.

03. Ground flaxseeds

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Besides having plenty of health benefits, flaxseeds also serve as substitutes for eggs in baking bread. 

For every egg, use a tablespoon of finely ground flaxseeds soaked in three tablespoons of warm water for 10 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. 

The dense mixture will cause your pancakes, cookies, or waffles to be compact and tight with a nutty flavor

04. Ground chia seeds

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Similar to ground flaxseeds, ground chia seeds are your answer to how to substitute for eggs in baking. 

Soak one tablespoon of ground chia seeds in ⅓ cup of water for 15 minutes or until the water gets absorbed. 

If you like your muffins, pancakes, and waffles to have a nutty flavor, then ground chia seeds in water is just the answer to eggless goodies. 

05. Pureed, silken tofu

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Did you know that tofu is the main ingredient for vegan scrambled eggs?

Well, looks like you can also use tofu when you’re thinking about substitutes for eggs in baking brownies!

Tofu is made from soy milk that has been processed and pressed. So, if you’re allergic to soy, then this isn’t the right egg substitute for you. 

But if you’re good with soy and soy products, just ¼ cup of pureed silken tofu is enough to replace an egg. 

As tofu with minimum water content is dense, it’s best to use it for baking brownies, cookies, quick bread, as well as cakes.

06. Mashed avocado or banana or pumpkin

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Umm, if you’re thinking what can you substitute for eggs in baking banana bread, well, the answer is – you guessed it – mashed banana!

But did you know that mashed pumpkin or mashed avocado work equally well as egg replacements in baking? Obviously, you won’t get the banana flavor from these. But you’ll still get the same moist and dense result. 

So, just use ¼ cup pureed avocado or banana, or pumpkin for each egg in your recipe. 

Although your brownies, muffins, or cakes with mashed fruit may not brown much when baked, the texture will more than make up for it. 

07. Applesauce

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You can use cooked apples or applesauce if you want to know how to substitute for eggs in baking. 

It’s better to use unsweetened applesauce. Otherwise, you should reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe. 

Sometimes, cinnamon and nutmeg are added to applesauce. So, when you use it as an egg alternative, you’ll have a nutty, warm flavor added to your baked goodies. 

It’s good to remember that your baked products will be dense when you use applesauce instead of eggs. 

08. Egg replacers

Applesauce is the perfect answer to what is vegan substitute for eggs in baking. It’s also great for weight-watchers who want a low-fat binder in their cake batter. 

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There are commercial egg replacers available in both physical and online stores. As the name suggests, they replace eggs in baking and cooking.  

These products are made from starch and leavening agents and are found in powder format. If you’re using one, read the package instructions for the right mix. 

Generally, you need to combine 1½ teaspoons of egg replacer powder with 2 to 3 tablespoons of warm water and set aside until it becomes thick. 

As these egg replacers don’t have any flavor, they’re suitable for all baking recipes. 

09. Soy lecithin powder

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Soy lecithin powder is found in both offline and online health stores. 

As it’s a byproduct of soybean oil, it has strong binding properties that make it a popular substitute for eggs in cake mix and other products. 

To replace an egg or one egg yolk, take a tablespoon of soy lecithin powder and add it to the dry ingredients. 

However, if you’re allergic to soy, don’t use it as an egg alternative.

10. Aquafaba

We always find canned chickpeas and beans immersed in a liquid. This liquid is called aquafaba and resembles the properties of egg whites

That’s why, aquafaba is the preferred egg substitute in recipes that need a lot of egg whites like meringue, marshmallows, nougat, and macaroons. 

Aquafaba results in light, airy, and fluffy baked goodies. 

Use three tablespoons of aquafaba to replace one egg. 

11. Nut butter

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Butter from almonds, peanuts, cashews, and other nuts are good substitutes for eggs in baking. 

As nut butter has a nutty flavor, your baked goodies will have it too. So, it’s best to use the nut butter in cookies, brownies, banana muffins, choc chip cookies, and pancakes for a warm and subtle flavor. 

Three tablespoons of any nut butter can replace an egg in your recipe. 

Remember to use smooth nut butter instead of a chunky variant for better mixing. 

Before using, make sure you’re not allergic to nuts though. 

12. Gelatin 

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Many of you might be wondering how to substitute gelatin for eggs in baking. 

It’s very easy. Just dissolve a tablespoon of gelatin powder in one tablespoon of cold water. Then add two tablespoons of hot water until the mixture becomes foamy. 

Gelatin is derived from animal body parts like collagen and ligaments. That’s why it’s not a popular egg substitute in vegan baking. 

Use unflavored gelatin powder as an egg replacement if you don’t want the final baked products to be affected. However, the texture will be stiff as gelatin itself is jelly-like. 

Gelatin is more commonly used in desserts like souffle that have a jelly-like texture and consistency. 

13. Agar-agar

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Agar-agar is the answer to gelatine substitution for vegetarians and vegans as it’s extracted from seaweed and has the same consistency as gelatin. 

Mix a tablespoon of agar-agar powder with a tablespoon of water to replace an egg in your recipe. 

It won’t affect the taste or flavor of your dessert but will definitely give it a stiffer texture. 

14. Arrowroot powder 

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Arrowroot is a plant-based extract that’s high in starch and therefore, works wonderfully as a binding agent. 

Dissolve two tablespoons of arrowroot powder in three tablespoons of water to replace one egg. 

Arrowroot helps to give your final baked goodies an airy and light texture. Therefore, use it as an egg alternative in cornbread, cakes, pancakes, and most recipes.  

15. Sweetened condensed milk

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Condensed milk is made by removing most of the water from cow’s milk until you’re left with a thick, sticky, sweet semi-liquid form of milk. 

Usually, sugar is added when making condensed milk so when you buy a can, it’s already sweetened. 

Note: You may want to find out the difference between condensed milk and evaporated milk

Anyway, since condensed milk is quite thick and dense, it’s best used as an egg substitute in cookies. 

Four tablespoons of condensed milk equal one egg. 

16. Sparkling water

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Carbonated or sparkling water as a substitute for eggs in baking works in two ways. 

First, it acts as a leavening agent and reacts with the baking soda in the batter to trap air bubbles. This makes cakes and bread light and fluffy. 

Secondly, sparkling water adds moisture and keeps your waffles, pancakes, and cupcakes from having a dry, dense texture. 

Just add a quarter cup of any sparkling water to take the place of an egg. 

17. Vegetable oil, baking powder, and water

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When you’re baking scones or muffins and you suddenly find yourself out of eggs, replace them easily with these kitchen staples – vegetable oil, baking powder, and water. 

1½ tablespoons of vegetable oil mixed with a teaspoon of baking powder and 1½ tablespoons of water is a quick solution as an egg alternative for all your baking needs. 

Oil is a natural binding agent and when mixed with water and baking powder, it gives a nice, packed texture to muffins and scones. 

18. Soy protein powder and water

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Although not the most ordinary kitchen staple, soy protein powder could come in handy if you’re thinking about how to substitute for eggs in baking. 

If you’re someone who’s into working out a lot, soy protein powder can be there in the cabinet. 

A tablespoon of soy protein powder mixed with three tablespoons of water can easily replace an egg for baking purposes. 

The soy protein powder keeps the dough moist and results in fresher bread, cookies, and pancakes. 

If you’re allergic to soy products, please use any other egg substitute from the list. 

Here’s a table to show you at a glance what to use as a substitute for eggs in baking, the right measurements, and where to use these replacements. 

SubstituteMeasurement for 1 EggGood replacement for
Applesauce (unsweetened)¼ CupMost recipes
Mashed avocado or banana or pumpkin¼ CupBrownies, muffins, cakes, quick bread
Ground flaxseeds1 Tablespoon finely ground flaxseed + 3 Tablespoons warm water soaked for 10 minutesBread, cookies, pancakes, waffles, muffins
Ground chia seeds1 Tablespoon chia seeds soaked in ⅓ cup water for 15 minutes. Bread, cookies, pancakes, waffles, muffins
Egg replacers1 ½ Teaspoon + 2 – 3 Tablespoons of warm waterAll recipes
Pureed, silken tofu¼ CupCakes, brownies, cookies, quick bread
Baking soda and Vinegar1 Tablespoon white vinegar + 1 Teaspoon baking sodaQuick bread, cakes, cupcakes
Buttermilk or Yogurt¼ CupCakes, cupcakes, muffins
Arrowroot powder2 Tablespoons arrowroot powder + 3 Tablespoons waterMost recipes
Aquafaba3 TablespoonsNougat, meringue, marshmallows, macaroons
Nut butter3 TablespoonsCookies, pancakes, brownies, banana muffins, choc chip cookies
Sparkling water¼ CupQuick bread, cupcakes, cakes
Gelatin 1 Tablespoon gelatin + 1 Tablespoon cold water + 2 Tablespoons of boiling waterDesserts with a jelly-like texture like souffle 
Agar-agar1 Tablespoon agar-agar powder + 1 Tablespoon water 
Soy lecithin powder1 Tablespoon soy lecithin powderMost recipes
Sweetened condensed milk¼ Cup (4 Tablespoons)Cookies 
Vegetable oil, baking powder, and water1½ Tablespoons vegetable oil + 1 Teaspoon baking powder + 1½ Tablespoons waterScones, muffins
Soy protein powder and water1 Tablespoon soy protein powder + 3 Tablespoons waterCookies, bread, pancakes 

Final Thoughts

Eggs can be easily replaced when you’re baking cookies, cakes, muffins, etc. As long as your recipe doesn’t ask for using more than three eggs, you can use the substitutes for eggs listed in this article without affecting the flavor and taste. 

What substitute for eggs in baking may differ a bit from one baked goodie to another. So, it’s good to keep in mind what you’re baking and how you want the taste, flavor, and texture to be before picking an egg substitute. 

FAQs

What to substitute for eggs in baking cookies?

You can choose applesauce, ground flaxseeds or chia seeds, egg replacers, pureed tofu, any nut butter, or condensed milk as a substitute for eggs in baking cookies. 

What to substitute for eggs in baking vegan?

Flaxseeds, chia seeds, applesauce, mashed pumpkin or banana, baking soda and vinegar, aquafaba, silken tofu, and plant-based yogurt all work as a substitute for eggs in baking vegan. 

What can you substitute for eggs in baking banana bread?

Yes, you can use mashed banana, applesauce, arrowroot powder, vinegar and baking soda, ground flaxseeds, aquafaba, tofu, ground chia seeds, and carbonated water to substitute for eggs in baking banana bread. 

What substitutes for eggs in baking brownies?

Nut butter, pureed silken tofu, mashed avocado or pumpkin or banana, egg replacers, and ground chia seeds or flaxseeds are substitutes for eggs in baking brownies. 

What substitutes for eggs in baking bread?

Substitutes for eggs in baking bread include soy protein powder and water, sparkling water, arrowroot powder, baking soda and vinegar, silken tofu, applesauce, egg replacers, and ground chia or flaxseeds.

What is substitute for eggs in cake mix?

Plain yogurt, tofu, applesauce, vinegar and baking soda, flaxseeds, mashed banana, and soy protein powder work as substitutes for eggs in a cake mix. 

14 Easy Ways To Substitute For Chicken Broth

What happens when you run out of stock in your pantry? If you don’t have time to go grocery shopping, or you simply want to save some cash, then these simple substitutes will save the day.

Chicken broth is a staple ingredient in many dishes. Unfortunately, it’s also quite expensive. That’s why many cooks turn to other alternatives such as vegetable broth, bouillon cubes, and even store-bought soup mixes.

Some recipes which tend to use chicken broth are soups, stews, gravies, sauces, and casseroles. Since a lot of these dishes are common staples, and you might not always have the time or money for classic chicken broth, knowing what you can substitute is a helpful skill.

So here are 14 easy ways to substitute for chicken broth.

14 Easy Ways To Substitute For Chicken Broth

Chicken Stock

Chicken stock is incredibly similar to chicken broth and only has a slight difference in how it is made with bones and vegetables, while chicken broth is made with actual meat from the chicken. 

While some recipes might end up with higher quality results if you use broth, the chicken stock will give you very similar results. The chicken stock also tends to be slightly thicker, so try to take this into account when using it in recipes. Because of how similar these two ingredients are, you can use them at a 1:1 ratio, which is very convenient.

Vegetable Broths

Vegetable broths are usually used in place of chicken broth in vegetarian cooking. They are often made by simmering various vegetables together until they become soft.

This means that they do not contain any meat products like chicken stock and broth do, making it a suitable option for vegetarians and vegans

Vegetable broths are great because they are generally cheaper than chicken broth, and they tend to be more flavorful. However, if you are looking for a specific flavor profile, you may need to make your own. 

Making your own vegetable stock is not too hard, and you can customize it as much as you want, including vegetables you like and excluding those you do not. For extra flavor from a vegetable broth, roast the vegetables first.

Beef Broth

Beef broth is one of the most popular types of broth. It is typically made by simmering beef bones along with water until the liquid becomes rich and flavorful.

Some people prefer to use beef broth instead of chicken broth in their recipes since it tends to taste better. The reason behind this is that the fat content of the beef makes it richer and smoother tasting.

This is a good option if you have the resources to make beef stock readily available, but otherwise, it could be just as expensive as chicken broth.

Also, the flavor profile can be quite different, so if you are looking for something that will not overpower a chicken flavor, this will not be a good option.

Vegetable Stock

Vegetable stock is another type of broth that is made by simmering vegetables in water. This is a quick way to get a flavorful broth without having to go through all the trouble of roasting and simmering the vegetables yourself. 

You can buy ready-made vegetable stocks, or you can make your own. If you are going to make your own, you should start with onions, celery, carrots, parsley, bay leaves, peppercorns, salt, and white wine vinegar. These five ingredients alone will make enough stock for about four servings of soup.

You can then add whatever other vegetables you would like to include such as garlic, mushrooms, tomatoes, thyme, or other complementary herbs.

Just remember to adjust the amount of each ingredient depending on what kind of flavor you are trying to achieve, and try to balance the sweetness and the saltiness of the dish you are trying to make.

Store-Bought Soup Mixes

You can easily make your own chicken broth using store-bought soup mixes. Just add hot water to the package, and let simmer until the liquid reduces by half.

Pour into jars and refrigerate. These store-bought soup mixes are very convenient and easy to use. They also come in a variety of flavors.

If you are looking for a particular flavor profile, you will likely find a mix works well for you. These store-bought mixes are often a more affordable option than regular chicken broth, but the results can be just as outstanding if you find a brand you like.

Bouillon Cubes

Bouillon Cubes

These cubes are made from dehydrated bouillon powder. Bouillon is used in many dishes around the world, and these cubes are an excellent alternative to homemade chicken broth.

There are several brands available and some of them are organic while others are not.

The best thing about these cubes is that they are pre-mixed, so there is no measuring needed. All you have to do is add boiling water and wait for it to reduce by half. Then pour it into containers and freeze.

When you are ready to use the cubes, simply defrost them and add them to soups, stews, sauces, or anything else where you need a flavorful base.

The best brands are usually sold in large boxes at health food stores. They are an excellent choice for making homemade chicken broth since they are already mixed and ready to use. 

Low Sodium Chicken Broth

Low sodium chicken broth is a good alternative to regular versions. Look for brands that contain less than 300 mg of sodium per cup. The best ones I have found are Swanson Low Sodium Organic Chicken Broth and Trader Joe’s Reduced Sodium Chicken Broth.

Both are organic and low sodium, and both are delicious. It is important to avoid too much sodium when cooking because high levels may cause heart problems.

A lot of the options mentioned here also feature quite high sodium, so make sure to take this into account when cooking your meals.

Coconut Milk

Surprisingly, coconut milk can be used as a substitute for chicken broth. Simply heat up 1/2 cup of coconut milk and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Strain out the solids and add to any recipe calling for chicken broth.

Coconut milk has a milder taste than chicken broth and works great in Asian recipes. If you want to go with a sweeter version, consider adding sugar or honey to your coconut milk before straining.

Coconut milk is a wonderful way to add extra creaminess to soups, curries, and desserts. Just make sure to use it within three days if you want to make this substitute in advance.

Wine

Wine isn’t just for special occasions, so why should drinking it be? In fact, red wine is an excellent source of resveratrol, an antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of heart disease. And as well as all this, it can also be used as a broth alternative.

To make a simple wine-based broth, combine one bottle of white or red wine with two cups of water. Bring to a boil, then turn down the heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.

This will be a more unique option, and using a sweeter wine should be avoided, but if you want to try something new, this option could work.

Dashi

Dashi is a Japanese soup stock made from dried kelp. You can find it in most grocery stores and online retailers. It is typically used as a base for miso soup, but it can also be added to other foods like rice. 

The flavor of Dashi is very similar to chicken broth but without as much salt. However, its flavor can be a bit stronger than chicken broth, so keep that in mind when preparing dishes.

Dashi is unique for its umami (savory) taste, which makes it perfect for savory dishes such as ramen noodles. It is also a great addition to vegetarian dishes since it adds a rich flavor that many people miss.

It is generally safe to use dashi in place of chicken broth, but some people are sensitive to shellfish which is present in many types of dashi. So check the label carefully before buying. 

Aquafaba

Aquafaba

Aquafaba is basically chickpea brine. It is usually discarded after making hummus, but it can actually be used as a replacement for chicken broth.

To do this, simply drain the liquid from a chickpea can into a container, then use it where needed to replace chicken stock. 

You can also blend the chickpeas together until smooth and add them to the aquafaba to create a more substantial substitute.

This means you won’t have to waste the chickpeas just to get to their brine. Add this mixture to any dish calling for chicken broth. The result will be a thick and creamy sauce that tastes exactly like chicken broth.

This method is particularly useful when making vegan soups and stews. Since aquafaba doesn’t contain any animal products, it won’t affect anyone who follows a strict vegan diet.

Just Water

If you don’t have access to any of these options, if you season water correctly, you can use it as a substitute, especially if the chicken flavor is not too important for the dish.

Simply mix 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper into 1 gallon of water. Let sit for at least 30 minutes before using.

The flavors of the water will slowly seep into the food being prepared, so it is best to prepare ahead of time. If you need to use the water right away, you can strain it through cheesecloth or even a coffee filter.

The salt and pepper will give the water a slightly salty flavor while still maintaining the natural flavor of the food.

Water With Butter

Butter has been shown to add richness and moisture to foods. You can use this trick to create your own homemade chicken broth by adding 1 stick of melted butter to 1 quart of water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then strain out the fat and enjoy.

You may notice that the resulting broth does not have quite the same consistency as regular chicken broth. That is because the butter helps to emulsify the water and thicken the broth.

Quick Meal Flavor Packs

If you are really in a pinch, see if you have any meal kits which have a flavor sachet with a flavor similar to chicken. Just mix this with water and try it in your recipe. Of course, results can vary massively.

Conclusion

Chicken broth is an essential ingredient in many recipes. While there are plenty of ways to make it yourself, sometimes you just want something fast and easy. In those cases, I hope my list of alternatives helped!

What is your favorite way to replace chicken broth?

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14 Easy Ways To Substitute For Chicken Broth
14 Easy Ways To Substitute For Chicken Broth

6 Things You Can Substitute for Rice Vinegar: Easy Options to Use Instead

Rice is the ultimate ingredient. Besides being a dietary staple in many cultures, you can turn rice into crispy chips, a smooth and creamy pudding, or delicately flavored vinegar.

Yup, that’s right. Rice can be used to make vinegar. In fact, rice vinegar has a pleasant sweetness, toned down tartness, and a great flavor profile. This makes it a popular condiment in many Asian dishes. It is used to season sushi rice, noodles, stir-fries, and dipping sauces.

But what is one to do when they don’t have or can’t find rice vinegar? Most people will go looking for a substitute for rice vinegar. And if you’re one of them, you’ve come to the right place!

In this article, you will find out all about all the things you can substitute for rice vinegar. Besides talking about each replacement for rice vinegar, I will also mention my favorite product, as well as the dishes you can and cannot substitute them in.

You may also like: Best way to freeze vinegar

A Quick Glance at Rice Vinegar

substitute for rice vinegar
substitute for rice vinegar

Rice vinegar is made from fermented rice. The sugars in rice are turned to alcohol aka rice wine. Bacteria are then used in a second fermentation which turns the rice wine into vinegar.

The result is a much milder vinegar which isn’t as sour as white vinegar or anything made from fermented grapes or malt. This makes it a delicious addition to salads, noodles, fried rice, and sauteed vegetables.

It has a much subtler flavor and melds into the background. Because of this, it pairs well with soy, sake, brown sugar, and fish sauce, making it the perfect condiment for Asian and Asian-fusion cuisine.

People often get confused between rice vinegar and rice wine vinegar. However, the two are the same thing. 

But you need to know that there is a difference between rice wine and rice vinegar/rice vinegar. You can drink rice wine and it has a sweet flavor, but rice vinegar is too sour for even a sip!

Chinese rice vinegar is another variant that confuses people. These two can be interchanged, but Chinese rice vinegar is often black or red and has added aromatics and seasonings to further flavor the condiment.

Best Rice Vinegar Substitutes

The following are among the best substitutes available for rice vinegar. You might have to change the amounts mentioned in the recipe to get a similar flavor profile, but these will make for a reliable substitution for rice vinegar.

01. Apple Cider Vinegar:

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If your recipe calls for rice vinegar, there’s a good chance that it wants a mild, almost fruity condiment with the right kind of tartness. This is why apple cider vinegar is the most common and ideal alternative to rice vinegar.

Both apple cider vinegar and rice vinegar have a subtle flavor that won’t clash too much with other seasonings and won’t overpower the dish. Moreover, ACV is easily available everywhere and is used in many other dishes, as well as consumed for health purposes.

Apple cider vinegar can also be used to condition hair and clarify the scalp, so a big bottle will see you through multiple uses. However, bear in mind that ACV has a fruity apple flavor, which can slightly alter the taste of your pickles or sushi rice.

For most other dishes, just use an equal amount of apple cider vinegar instead of rice vinegar.

Best for: Marinades, sauces, ramen, dressings

Not Recommended for: Pickling and seasoning sushi rice

Amazon Product Recommendations: Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar and Marukan Organic Apple Cider Vinegar

02. White Wine Vinegar(not white vinegar)

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Since we’re looking for sweetness, the keywords in this substitution are ‘white wine’. Don’t use plain white vinegar instead-it will be way too tart. Instead, use white wine vinegar as it has a milder, sweeter flavor and isn’t nearly as pungent as white vinegar.

White wine vinegar is used a lot in Western cooking and is used primarily for flavoring and deglazing pans. When using it to replace rice vinegar, start by adding a small amount of white wine vinegar and add more as you go along, until you are satisfied with the flavor.

If you think the dish is missing some sweetness, add anywhere from a pinch to a quarter teaspoon of granulated sugar for every spoon of vinegar to balance out the acidity. If you must use white vinegar, use half or less than half the amount specified in the recipe.

Best for: Marinades, sauces, ramen, dressings, pan sauces, and sushi rice

Not Recommended for: Certain desserts

Amazon Product Recommendations: Solspring Biodynamic Organic White Wine Vinegar and Colavita Aged White Wine Vinegar

03. Lime/Lemon Juice:

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Even if you don’t have fancy vinegar in your pantry, there’s a good chance you have a lime or lemon in the back of your fridge. Lime juice has a natural sweetness that balances out some of the sourness, making it a great seasoned rice vinegar substitute. However, adding a touch of sugar to lemon juice also does the trick.

The brightness of citrus juices makes it a great option for salad dressings, marinades, and a topping for noodle dishes like Pad Thai. However, bear in mind that lemons and limes have a certain zesty, floral note to them which you will not find in rice vinegar.

As citrus juices are pretty mild, you may need to double the amount when using them to replace rice vinegar. As always, taste and go whenever you can to make sure your dish ends up being perfect.

Best for: Desserts, marinades, sauces, dressings

Not Recommended for: Sushi rice, pan sauces

Amazon Product Recommendation: Iberia 32-Ounce Pure Lemon Juice and Lucy’s Family Owned Lime Juice

04. Champagne Vinegar:

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Besides apple cider vinegar, this may be the closest thing to rice vinegar in terms of flavor. This mild, floral, sweetish vinegar is made by fermenting Chardonnay. It has a very bright flavor profile, with a surprising amount of tang, but a light taste.

Because of its mild taste, cooking this vinegar for too long or at high temperatures can kill its flavor. So, it is best to use it for raw preparations like a vinaigrette or salad dressing. You can even use it to finish sauces, or drizzle over vegetables, or when making soy-stained boiled eggs.

At the same time, champagne vinegar is a good option for marinades and it tenderizes meat very well. When replacing rice vinegar with champagne vinegar, use the same amount as specified in the recipe.

Best for: Marinades, dipping sauces, dressings, vinaigrettes

Not Recommended for: Stews, soups, and slow-cooked dishes

Amazon Product Recommendation: Sparrow Lane Champagne Vinegar and Beaufor French Champagne-Ardenne Vinegar

05. Sherry Vinegar:

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Anyone used to cooking will know that sherry vinegar is always a good option to keep in the kitchen. In fact, it is even known as balsamic vinegar’s even better friend. And if you are looking for a brown rice vinegar substitute, sherry vinegar is a near-perfect replacement.

Sherry vinegar is generally sourced from Cadiz in Spain and is made by fermenting wine and then aging it. The more aged the vinegar, the darker it looks, and the more complex the flavors. Aged vinegar is also quite pricey.

But relatively younger sherry vinegar is much more complex than other wine vinegar. They have a crisp, tart, acidity, which is balanced out by sweeter, caramel notes. Instead of the more floral notes, you will find layers of nuttiness and understated fruity flavors.

Because of this, sherry vinegar works really well as a salad dressing, when added to chili, thick hearty stews, marinara, and rich sauces. It also works as a great addition to soups with beans and meat, and as a drizzle over fresh vegetables.

Start by replacing half the amount of rice vinegar as mentioned in the recipe. If you think your dish needs more, add it in small splashes and try to taste as you go along.

Best for: Soups, stews, chili, stir-fries, and salad dressings

Not Recommended for: Mildly flavored dishes

Amazon Product Recommendation: Arvum Oak-Aged Sherry Vinegar and Roland Sherry Vinegar

06. Balsamic Vinegar:

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If you don’t have any of the options mentioned above, you can always substitute balsamic vinegar for rice vinegar. This tangy, slightly sweet, and salty pairs wonderfully well with various meats and vegetables.

This kind of vinegar develops a rich and complex flavor as it ages. You can drizzle it over raw and roasted vegetables, add it to marinades, make glazes, sauces, and even use it on pizzas and pastas.

The sweetness of balsamic vinegar matches that in rice vinegar, so you can substitute the same amount for almost any recipe out there. Whether you have white balsamic vinegar or the ordinary kind, it won’t make much of a difference in terms of flavor.

Best for: Baked and stir-fried meats, drizzles, sauces, and stews

Not Recommended for: Certain clear soups and noodle dishes

Amazon Product Recommendation: Colavita Aged Balsamic Vinegar and Mantova Flavored Balsamic Vinegar of Modena 4-Variety Pack

Apple Cider Vinegar vs Rice Vinegar

By now you already know apple cider vinegar is one of the closest substitutes to rice vinegar. However, the two do have a few differences. For starters, apple cider vinegar is cloudy, while rice vinegar is clear. This means that a substitution might change the appearance of the dish.

And while the sweet-to-sour ratio is rather similar, apple cider vinegar has a mild fruity apple flavor. This is absolutely missing from rice vinegar, so your dish may end up with a subtle apple note in the background.

Moreover, apple cider vinegar is much easier to find, especially when compared to rice vinegar. You will find it online, in any grocery store or supermarket. On the other hand, rice vinegar is harder to find, and you will need to order them online or go to an Asian store.

Rice Vinegar DIY

If you can’t find rice vinegar anywhere, it might be worth trying to make some yourself. Here is an easy guide that will show you how to make rice vinegar at home.

What You Will Need:

  • 2 cups of cooked rice, along with its cooking water
  • 1 L filtered water
  • 1-2 fluid ounces of rice wine or Mother of Vinegar

Instructions:

  1. Start by combining the rice and its cooking water, the Mother of Vinegar, and the water in a dark, airtight container.
  2. Cover the container with 2 layers of cheesecloth. Secure them in place with a rubber band.
  3. Set the mixture in a dark, warm place, like the back of a kitchen cupboard where it won’t be disturbed. You can also keep it in the basement or a pantry shelf.
  4. Check on the mixture after three weeks. The fermentation process takes anywhere from 3 weeks to 6 months. The mixture should have a sour smell, and when tasted it should be tart.
  5. You may want to leave the mixture for a couple of more weeks. This will allow the fermentation to continue, and the vinegar to taste more like the store-bought stuff.
  6. Strain the vinegar mixture through the cheesecloth to remove the rice. Then cover the rice vinegar with another cheesecloth and chill it in the fridge for a few hours.
  7. Once cooled, filter again through cheesecloth and store in a clean airtight container. Your rice vinegar is ready to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here you will find answers to questions people have about rice wine vinegar and its substitutes.

01. What is the Difference between Rice Vinegar and Rice Wine Vinegar?

The two kinds of vinegar are pretty similar and can be used interchangeably.

02. Can I Use Red Wine Vinegar instead of Rice Vinegar?

Both red and white wine vinegar can be used instead of rice vinegar. However, it is much more acidic than rice vinegar so a substitution should be added sparingly.

03. What Dishes Use Rice Vinegar?

Rice vinegar can be used as a dipping sauce, in seafood, rice, noodles, and pickling vegetables.

Finally

If you are looking for a substitute for rice vinegar, this article gives you several options to use. Whether you want to use champagne vinegar, sherry vinegar, or apple cider vinegar, you will have a clear idea of how much you should use, and which dish each replacement works best for.

So the next time you want to make a couple of elaborate Asian courses, don’t worry if you can’t find any rice vinegar. These substitutes will have your back and no one will suspect there’s an ingredient missing!

Discover the Ideal Palm Sugar Substitute for Your Cooking!

If you’ve ever tried making Thai or Indian dishes, you may have noticed that palm sugar is a pretty important ingredient. And while you might have thought that swapping it for white sugar was a good option, it really isn’t a proper palm sugar substitute.

Palm sugar has certain characteristics that give it a unique flavor, making it almost indispensable in dishes like Pad Thai noodles, South Asian and Thai curries, and Indo-Malaysian cuisine. But since it can be a tricky ingredient to find, chances are you need to find a proper palm sugar alternative.

And that’s why I’m here to present you with 5 ingredients that you can use as a palm sugar alternative. They have a flavor profile pretty comparable to palm sugar, so you will be able to achieve similar results.

But that’s not all. You will also learn which of these ingredients work best for different dishes and cuisines, and the things that you should avoid them in as well. The article will also provide a rundown of the best products and where you can find them.

What is Palm Sugar?

palm sugar substitute
Palm Sugar

Palm sugar is a kind of sweetener derived from the sap of palm trees. The sap is extracted from the coconut palms and then boiled and simmered until the excess water dries up and a thick, rich syrup is formed. This syrup is also sold for consumption, but most of the time is crystallized to form the more conventional version of palm sugar.

The palm sugar crystal is a warm brown and is sold in block or granular form. Because it isn’t treated with chemicals, it is a ‘natural’ sweetener and is rich in vitamins and minerals. Compared to the more processed white sugar, it is a borderline healthy choice of sweetener.

In terms of taste, palm sugar has a unique flavor, it has deep smoky notes and a hint of caramel. It also tastes a lot more complex and richer when compared to both brown and white sugar. This makes a great choice for adding great depth to many Thai and Malay sauces and curries. In South Asia, it is sometimes added to curries and dals.

The region of Bengal is well known for its love of palm sugar. Besides adding it to curries, palm sugar syrup and its granular form are added to countless traditional dessert dishes, eaten with Rotis, and are a staple in many kinds of rice pudding.

It is also added to chai, replacing white sugar to give it a smokier and richer flavor. In recent times, many innovative recipes use palm sugar syrup in ice creams, cakes, souffles, and mousses.

Wondering where to buy palm sugar from? Your local Indian, Asian, and even Middle-Eastern grocery stores are most likely to have some form of palm sugar. You can also try ordering some quality palm sugar online. If you can’t find any at all, the rest of this article will come in handy.

5 Best Alternatives for Palm Sugar Replacement

Now that we’re all on the same page about palm sugar, let’s look into alternatives. This list includes both granulated and liquid sweeteners that try to match the smokey, complex notes of palm sugar, so you’re bound to get similar results in your cooking.

01. Coconut Sugar:

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Coconut sugar is produced from the buds of coconut tree flowers. Because they are both sourced from palm trees, they come pretty close to each other in terms of flavor. Like palm sugar, coconut sugar has a deep, smokey taste and looks a lot like granulated palm sugar as well.

Many people don’t understand palm sugar vs coconut sugar comparisons as they assume both mean the same thing. However, they are each sourced from different parts of the palm tree.

Because of this, you can easily replace palm sugar with coconut sugar and no one will notice the difference. They are both mildly sweet, which makes them great for curries. Coconut sugar is also seen as a healthier alternative and is often added to shakes and coffee instead of white sugar.

You can buy coconut sugar in both liquid and crystal form. The granulated form is the easiest to use, as is the syrup. Dealing with a whole block of coconut sugar is harder as you need to shave chunks of it off with a sharp knife or pound it until it disintegrates.

Best For: Any kind of recipe that requires a sweetener, palm sugar, or otherwise.

Not Recommended For: People who are allergic to coconut.

Product Recommendations: Organic Coconut Palm Sugar and Anthony’s Organic Coconut Sugar.

02. Maple Syrup:

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As far as liquid sweeteners go, maple syrup is the best replacement for palm sugar syrup. And I’m not talking about the crappy caramel-flavored corn syrup versions. But pure 100% maple syrup has that woody, smokey flavor that comes pretty close to palm sugar.

The butterscotch, caramelized flavor of real maple syrup makes it a great choice for desserts, drinks, and even things like porridge, oats, and even coffee. If you want to make the famous pal sugar chai but with more accessible ingredients, use a spoon or two of maple syrup instead.

Maple syrup is also a much milder sweetener when compared to refined sugar. It is safe for people with IBS, those on a FODMAP diet, and is a good choice for diabetics when taken in moderation.

Most cooking experts advise using 5 tablespoons of maple syrup for every 100g of palm sugar mentioned in a recipe. However, you can scale it up or down according to your preferences.

Best For: Desserts, beverages, and recipes that call for palm sugar syrup

Not Recommended For: Curries and sauces

Product Recommendations: Maple Grove Farms Pure Maple Syrup and Hidden Springs Organic Vermont Maple Syrup.

03. Brown Sugar:

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Rich and dense, brown sugar is a decent replacement for palm sugar in sweet and savory recipes. It is also a great substitute for coconut sugar in baking. It looks a lot like palm sugar too, so this adds to the illusion as well.

Brown sugar has a deep, molasses flavor which makes it a little similar to palm sugar. It is moist and sticky, so baked goods made with brown sugar end up being super chewy, rich, and soft. Brown sugar is literally white sugar with molasses added to it, so it is a good alternative.

This is because molasses is an effective substitute for palm sugar as well. The dark and slightly smoky taste is present in both but is less pronounced in brown sugar. This makes brown sugar a good addition to curries and sauces as well.

If you don’t have any brown sugar around, other versions like Muscovado and Turbinado sugar will also work in a pinch.

Best For: Baked goods, beverages, curries, and sauces

Not Recommended For: South Asian dessert dishes

Product Recommendations: Woodstock Brown Sugar or Domino Dark Brown Sugar.

04. Molasses:

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Molasses is another staple in many South Asian dishes. Molasses is extremely rich and sweet and is very similar to palm sugar syrup. It is dark and viscous and has complex gourmand notes and a smoky flavor, so it is pretty similar to palm sugar.

As a result, it makes a good replacement for recipes that call for the liquid version of palm sugar. It goes well with puddings, mousses, and treacle. Some sauces also call for a little molasses to sweeten them.

If you want to replace granulated palm sugar with molasses, just add a little molasses to some regular white sugar. A good rule of thumb is to add two tablespoons of molasses to a cup of white sugar.

This is in effect, brown sugar and can be used instead of palm sugar. Moreover, molasses is much sweeter than palm sugar, so use them sparingly as a substitute.

Best For: Desserts and dipping sauces

Not Recommended For: Curries and most savory dishes

Product Recommendation: Golden Barrel Black Strap Molasses and Grandma’s Molasses

05. Honey:

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You might not have molasses or coconut sugar in your pantry, but there’s a good chance that you always have some honey in the kitchen. As a last resort, you can use honey instead of palm sugar in many different recipes, both sweet and savory.

As far as texture goes, honey is pretty similar to palm sugar syrup or liquid jaggery. Honey is a lot less sticky and viscous than molasses, so it is much easier to handle and cook with. Like palm sugar, it has a similar level of sweetness and nutritional content.

Because it is in liquid form, it is best to add half the amount of palm sugar as mentioned in the recipe. As a rule, it is a good idea to use honey in things like baked goods, iced beverages, porridges, puddings, and dipping sauces. Honey is also used in marinades as it has tenderizing properties as well.

It contains similar levels of fructose and glucose to palm sugar. Using liquid honey will require the need to adjust the other liquids in your recipe. Also, honey is sweeter than palm sugar, so you may need to decrease the amount used when compared to the portion of palm sugar needed.

Bear in mind that baked goods sweetened with liquid honey are prone to browning more quickly than use those that use granulated sweeteners. (By the way, you can find other substitutes for honey here!)

Best For: Desserts, baked goods, beverages, sauces, and marinades

Not Recommended For: Curries and stews

Product Recommendation: Nature Nate’s 100% Pure, Raw & Unfiltered Honey and Happy Belly Clover Honey.

Any Further Questions?

Below you will find answers to questions that are asked the most about substitutes for palm sugar.

01. What Can I Use Instead of Coconut Sugar?

Palm sugar, brown sugar, and even date sugar can be used as substitutes for coconut sugar with similar results.

02. Is Palm Sugar a Healthy Option?

While all sweeteners are inherently unhealthy, palm sugar is much healthier than refined sugar as it isn’t processed, is completely natural, and contains a good number of vitamins and minerals.

03. Can I Substitute Coconut Sugar for Brown Sugar?

You can easily substitute coconut sugar for brown sugar in a 1:1 ratio without any major changes in flavor.

04. Can I Replace Brown Sugar with Palm Sugar?

Palm sugar and brown sugar can be used interchangeably in a 1:1 ratio and you won’t find a dramatic difference in the end result.

05. Can I Use Honey Instead of Palm Sugar?

Honey is an effective substitute for palm sugar, although it is quite sweeter than palm sugar. However, in most sauces and desserts, it works very well as a replacement.

06. What Is the Difference Between Palm Sugar and Regular Sugar?

The main difference between these two sugars is their source. Palm sugar is made by boiling the sap from palm trees. On the other hand, regular sugar is made from sugar canes and is treated heavily with chemicals. Palm sugar is also brown in color, and regular sugar is white and bleached.

07. Is Palm Sugar the Same as Coconut Sugar?

Palm sugar and coconut sugar look and taste very similar, but are made from different parts of the palm tree. Palm sugar is made by extracting the sap from the palm tree, while coconut sugar is made from the sap of flower buds from the palm trees.

08. Is Palm Sugar and Jaggery The Same?

Yes, palm sugar is also known as jaggery in many places.

09. Is Coconut Palm Sugar Better Than Cane Sugar?

Palm sugar is a completely natural sugar, derived from plants and is processed without any chemicals. These features make it a much healthier choice over refined cane sugar. Also, it has a lower glycemic index and is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a better option.

Wrapping Up

Palm sugar has replaced refined sweeteners in many households, due to health reasons and because it is used in so many cuisines. People even use palm sugar in coffee now! If you haven’t made the switch, but would like to dabble in making things like Penang curry and pithas, using a palm sugar substitute is a good idea.

Proportions and ratios are other important factors you have to consider when substituting honey or molasses for palm sugar. You might need to experiment a bit before getting used to using molasses too.

While some alternatives work better than others, a mix of coconut sugar and molasses or maple syrup will give you the closest results to actual cane sugar. Once you get the hang of it, your culinary horizons will stretch far and wide!

What To Substitute For Rosemary When You Have Run Out Of It!

Learn what substitute for rosemary works well in the right ratios in beef, pork, lamb, chicken, mushroom, and other dishes to give you a similar flavor profile. 

What To Substitute For Rosemary When You Have Run Out Of It!
What To Substitute For Rosemary When You Have Run Out Of It

Your kid will be home from college and you’re excitedly preparing her favorite Mediterranean dishes when you notice athere’s no rosemary in the cupboard. 

Your spouse is away and there’s nobody to run a quick errand to the supermarket.

If you’ve ever been in this situation like me, you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about and how frustrating it is.

But there’s an easy solution – substitute for rosemary.

I know that substitutes don’t do full justice, but you need to get the job done.

But what spice can you use in place of rosemary?

There are a few herbs similar to rosemary.

Let’s find out!

What Is Rosemary?

Health Benefits of Rosemary
Health Benefits of Rosemary

The arid and rocky Mediterranean region is home to the fragrant and versatile herb rosemary. 

The rosemary is a perennial plant with needle-like leaves and lives for two years. 

It is used as a culinary seasoning since ancient times in Rome and Greece, in creating personal fragrances, and possibly even for health reasons.

Along with many other herbs, including oregano, thyme, basil, and lavender, rosemary is a member of the mint family Lamiaceae.

It can be used both in its fresh and dried forms. 

The herb is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin B6 in addition to tasting good in recipes like rosemary chicken and lamb.

Rosemary has been praised for its therapeutic qualities and has long been used to ease muscle soreness, enhance memory, strengthen the immune and circulatory systems, and encourage hair development.

How Does Rosemary Taste?

substitute for rosemary
substitute for rosemary

Coming from the mint family, rosemary does have a minty taste. 

Like sage – a substitute for rosemary – rosemary has a peppery and woody taste and leaves a slightly bitter aftertaste if you eat fresh rosemary leaves.

The strong flavor of rosemary makes it a perfect spice for cooking meat dishes, stews, soups, and poultry. 

If you don’t want this herb to drown out other flavors in your food, use it in moderation and gradually up the proportion as per your liking. 

When you’re using rosemary in cooking, you should add it early on so that it has enough time to release all its oils and flavors with it. 

What Does Rosemary Smell Like?

What Does Rosemary Smell Like?
What Does Rosemary Smell Like

Rosemary smells fresh and clean flavor with hints of pine and lemon

Having it in your kitchen is like having something evergreen and refreshing. 

The smell of rosemary and garlic is to die for!

Being very aromatic, rosemary can be added to enhance the natural flavors of food like fish, poultry, beef, pork, lamb, and even salads and vegetables. 

Due to the pungent nature of rosemary, the best part is that its flavor doesn’t diminish with cooking. 

That’s why you can use it in stews and soups for a fragrant bowl of comfort food. 

Substitute For Fresh Rosemary

Did you know you can simply substitute dried rosemary with fresh and vice versa?

However, keep in mind that dried rosemary is more pungent and stronger than fresh rosemary.

That’s why you should consider the amount of dried rosemary you are using.

It’s good to use a teaspoon of dried rosemary for every tablespoon of fresh rosemary

Another tip to remember is that dried rosemary is best used in cooking as its brittle texture is not easy to chew. 

It takes a while for dried rosemary to absorb moisture from the cooking and become easily chewable. 

That’s why it’s not recommended to use it as a garnish or add it toward the end of cooking. 

As mentioned earlier, you can use fresh rosemary as a substitute for dried rosemary.

In this case, if you need to use a teaspoon of fresh rosemary, replace it with ¼ teaspoon of dried rosemary. 

Top Substitutes For Rosemary

Substitute For RosemarySuitable ForHow To Use
Dried rosemaryRoast rubs
Cooked dishes
1 teaspoon of dried rosemary for
1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary
ThymeSalads
Cooked dishes
Equal parts
SageEgg and meat dishes1 part rosemary to half part sage
TarragonFish, chicken,
salad dressing,
French cuisine
1 tablespoon of rosemary to half
tablespoon of tarragon
MarjoramMeat dishes
Mushroom
SavoryEuropean cuisineUse little as summer savory
can be spicy
Caraway seedSoup
Meat
Vegetables
Bread
Sausage dishes
Start with little
Italian seasoningCooking only,
not for salads or
roasted meat
1 tablespoon of rosemary to be substituted with half tablespoon of Italian seasoning
OreganoEqual parts
BasilEqual parts

The best substitute for rosemary depends on what you’re cooking as it can vary according to meat or poultry or fish dishes. 

For example, sage could serve as a rosemary replacement in a chicken dish but if you’re making Italian cuisine, the closest substitute for rosemary is oregano.

Rosemary also pairs well with other spices and can give your dish a very well-blended flavor.

So, you need to think a bit before reaching out for the best rosemary seasoning substitute.

If you get confused and think about what can I use instead of rosemary, don’t worry as there are quite a few options. 

  1. Thyme

A native Mediterranean herb, thyme comes from the perennial mint family.

It’s one of the key ingredients in Herbes de Provence seasoning spice.

As rosemary leaves substitute, use thyme in equal parts

The same rule applies to either fresh or dried thyme. 

Although thyme has a milder flavor than rosemary, it works well with a number of cooked dishes as well as salads. 

The herbal flavor of thyme with distinct flavors of grass, wood, and florals is not too different from rosemary and will not give your dish a new twist. 

Although fresh thyme has more flavor than dried one, if preserved carefully, dried thyme can retain a lot of flavors.

If you want to use lemon thyme as a rosemary alternative, keep in mind that the flavor and taste of the dish will change as it would emit a citrusy aroma.

Pro Tip: For lamb dishes, mix thyme, peppermint, and bay leaf in equal parts and use it as a substitute for rosemary. 

  1. Sage

With a pine-like flavor with notes of eucalyptus, lemon, and mint, and a stronger taste, sage can be used as a rosemary spice substitute. 

It’s a great option for seasoning poultry, as pork and poultry stuffing, and in sausages.

You can try it in egg and meat dishes too for a unique taste.

As it has a stronger flavor profile, use it carefully. 

Start by adding a little bit of sage – half part for every part of the rosemary. 

For example, if your recipe calls for a teaspoon of rosemary, use half a teaspoon of sage

This should be followed for both fresh and dried sage to replace fresh and dried rosemary.

Then you can gradually add more and more until you find the perfect balance.

  1. Tarragon

You can find wild tarragon across North America and Eurasia.

Among the few variants, the most popular in the culinary world is the French tarragon.

Tarragon is not only used in seafood, soups, fish, and poultry dishes but also in French cuisine that has fish, chicken, eggs, or cheese in it.

Salad dressings also use tarragon as a way to add a fresh flavor.

It has a quite strong flavor of anise and licorice so you should be careful while using it as a rosemary powder substitute. 

Depending on how strong you like the flavor of tarragon to be in your dish, start by using half a tablespoon of tarragon for every tablespoon of rosemary.

You can adjust the amount according to your preference.

  1. Marjoram

You can find this plant native to Turkey, the Arabian peninsula, the Mediterranean, Western Asia, Cyprus, and the Levant. 

This plant came to the British Isles in the Middle Ages and much later on in the US, after the Second World War.

Although you can confuse marjoram for rosemary as they appear almost the same, the taste is a bit different.

Having said that, the similar flavor profile of citrus and pine makes marjoram a good rosemary substitute. 

The well-balanced sweet and bitter taste of marjoram complements the earthy flavors of both meat and mushroom dishes. 

It’s also used to season soups, stews, sauces, herbal teas, and salad dressings.

You can use a 1:1 ratio to replace rosemary as an alternative and you can always tweak the amount to suit your palate. 

  1. Savory

There are two types of savory – winter and summer. 

Hailing from the mint family and grown in the Mediterranean region, it’s often used in European cuisine to add flavor to beans and also to season meat. 

It’s one of the main ingredients of Herbes de Provence

While summer savory has a sweet and spicy flavor and taste, winter savory is more earthy with notes of pine and sage. 

Both winter and summer savory have notes of thyme, mint, and marjoram.

You can use either fresh or dried savory as a rosemary substitute.

Use in equal parts, that is, in a 1:1 ratio. 

However, as the summer savory might be a bit spicy, start by using a lesser amount and change it as you go along. 

Summer savory can withstand long cooking times so it’s a good condiment when simmering soups, stews, and sauces. 

The only downside is that it’s a rare herb and not a kitchen staple that you can reach for any time. 

  1. Basil

Basil comes from the same mint family of plants and is believed to be native to India. 

There are a few varieties of basil including Thai, Italian, holy, lemon, and lettuce-leaf basil. 

It adds a sweet flavor with lots of warmth in your dish. 

You will find a lot of Italian dishes using copious amounts of this flavorful and aromatic herb to bring freshness to your palate. 

If you visit any streetside stall in Thailand and order spring rolls, they will always come with a bunch of fresh basil leaves to complement the savory bites. 

Use in equal parts when replacing rosemary with basil. 

Pro Tip: Add basil leaves as whole or as cut into strips toward the end of the cooking as otherwise they will wilt and diminish in flavor when cooked for a long time. 

  1. Caraway Seed

Found abundantly in North Africa, Asia, and Europe, the caraway seeds are small seeds that pack quite a bit of pungency. 

Also known by the names of Persian cumin and meridian fennel, caraway seeds belong to the carrot family and have a distinct flavor, resembling anise and adds a slight hint of licorice flavor in dishes. 

An earthy taste with a suggestion of lemon and pepper makes it a good substitute for fresh or dried rosemary.

Its widely used in British and European cuisine. 

Due to the strong flavor, it’s better to use caraway seeds as a rosemary substitute for pork chops or pork roast.

It’s advised to use caraway seeds in small amounts and gradually add more if needed. 

  1. Oregano

Oregano has its origins in the Mediterranean area but has spread wide and far. 

A close cousin of marjoram, both oregano and marjoram have a special place in cuisines from Italy, France, Spain, Mexico, Greece, and Turkey. 

Dried oregano has a stronger flavor than the fresh one. 

The warm and earthy flavor of oregano has a bit of a bitter taste.

As it pairs well with Italian spices used in cooking, it’s no surprise that it’s mostly used in southern Italy where people prefer their fare more spicy.

Fried, roasted, and grilled vegetables, meat, and fish are often treated to this delightful mix of dried herbs for a nice flavor. 

Turkish cuisine uses this herb to season lamb and mutton.

In Portugal, it’s used as a topping in a simple cucumber and tomato sandwich.

You can also find traces of it in a Greek salad and it’s also used to flavor lemon-olive sauce that’s served with casseroles and grilled fish or meat.

As a rosemary substitute, use either fresh or dried oregano in equal parts.

  1. Italian Seasoning 

Italian seasoning is a mix of various herbs including some listed above as rosemary substitutes. 

You can find hints of thyme, basil, marjoram, oregano, rosemary, savory, cilantro, and others. 

That’s why it can be easily used as a rosemary alternative.

The best part is that you can make Italian seasoning at home and control the proportions of the various herbs to make it suitable for your palate or for the dish you’re cooking. 

Italian seasoning is best used in dishes that doesn’t use a whole lot of other spices as you can get a subtle mix of earthy, savory, and sweet flavors of all the herbs blended well.

The Best Substitutes For Rosemary In Specific Dishes

What To Substitute For Rosemary When You Have Run Out Of It! 8
Rosemary In Specific Dishes

It pays to have rosemary substitute ideas for specific dishes to get the full flavor of the dish without compromising on the taste. 

Instead of going through a list of spices that work as rosemary alternatives, you can take a quick glance at the dish type and then decide which dried or fresh herbs to use. 

Soup

Thyme and parsley are good substitutes for rosemary as they will enhance the natural flavor of the soup.

Fish

Sage, parsley, dill, or chives work well on dark and oily and lean, white fish whether you cook or grill them. 

Start with a 1:1 ratio to replace rosemary with any of the above and adjust as per taste. 

Beef and Steak

Thyme is the best substitute for rosemary when it comes to steak as we don’t want anything else to overpower the taste and flavor of steak and want to let it stand on its own. 

When making anything with beef, you can also use sage as substitute for rosemary and thyme. 

Chicken

A great rosemary substitute for chicken can be basil, Italian seasoning, or sage. 

You can also combine thyme and sage to use in chicken and other poultry meat like turkey. 

Use thyme in equal parts but if you’re using sage to substitute rosemary, use half part of sage to one part of rosemary otherwise the flavor may get too powerful. 

Potatoes

Potatoes with rosemary is something else altogether but if you have run out of rosemary, you can use thyme or parsley to substitute rosemary. 

Although the flavors won’t be exactly the same, but you won’t regret it!

Lamb, Mutton, Goat

You can combine peppermint, bay leaf, and thyme as rosemary substitute for mutton, goat, or lamb dish. 

Mix each of these herbs in equal parts to get the right mix for seasoning. 

Then use one part of the mixed seasoning to replace one part of rosemary.

Mushroom-based dishes

Marjoram is the best substitute for recipes made with mushrooms as it enhances the earth mushroom flavors. 

In a 1:1 ratio, you can use marjoram instead of rosemary. 

You can also try combining basil, oregano, parsley, tarragon, and chives to take a mushroom-based dish to another level. 

Pork and Sausage Dishes

Take things another notch up by adding carraway seeds as a rosemary substitute for pork and beef sausages.

Sage is another alterative to rosemary that you can use in sausage dishes. 

Use half part of either of the substitute for every part of rosemary that the recipe requires. 

As always, you can change the substitute amounts to suit your taste buds. 

And if you’re wondering how to master the art of cooking Italian sausage in the oven, you will need to have rosemary substitutions at hand if you don’t have the real thing.

Specific Dish TypeRosemary Substitute
SoupThyme
Parsley
FishSage
Parsley
Dill
Chives
Beef and SteakThyme
Sage
Chicken, Turkey, PoultryThyme
Basil
Italian Seasoning
Sage
PotatoesParsley
Thyme
Lamb, Mutton, GoatMix of peppermint,
thyme, and bay leaf
Mushroom dishesMarjoram
A mix of basil, chives,
parsley, tarragon, oregano
Pork and Sausage DishesCaraway seeds
Sage

FAQs

What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Rosemary?

If you don’t have rosemary, you can use many other herbs for seasoning and as garnishes. 
It depends on what you’re cooking and the type of flavor and taste profile you prefer. 
Stronger rosemary substitutes include caraway seeds, tarragon, and oregano while milder substitutes for rosemary are thyme and marjoram. 

What Can I Substitute For Rosemary Leaves?

To replace fresh rosemary, use dried rosemary as a substitute. 
You need to use a teaspoon of dried rosemary instead of a tablespoon of fresh rosemary leaves as the dried version has a stronger flavor profile. 
If you don’t have dried rosemary at hand, use dried thyme , fresh or dried sage, and other dried herbs as listed above.

What Is The Closest Herb To Rosemary?

The closest herb to fresh rosemary includes sage, oregano, marjoram, basil, and mint. 
If you want to replace dried rosemary, the best substitutes are dill, thyme, savory, tarragon, bay leaf.

What Can I Substitute For Rosemary Essential Oil?

Best rosemary substitutes in the essential oil category include eucalyptus, hyssop, and tarragon. 

ry, tarragon, bay leaf.

What Can I Substitute For Rosemary Essential Oil?

Best rosemary substitutes in the essential oil category include eucalyptus, hyssop, and tarragon. 

10 Best Oils You Can Use as Peanut Oil Substitutes

Deep frying.

We love eating deep-fried goodies, but deep frying at home is nothing short of terrifying. Especially if you are a new cook. 

Sometimes you have to deal with unexpected hot oil spills and splatters. Sometimes your oil gets too hot and starts to burn.

Peanut oil is hailed as one of the best oils for deep frying due to its high smoke point. It is also one of the few oils that smell and taste great, which makes your cooking taste even better. But not everyone has access to peanut oil.

Maybe your local grocery store is out of peanut oil. Maybe you’re just allergic to peanuts. Either way, you need a peanut oil substitute. That’s why this article sums up all the possible cooking oil replacement options you can ever hope for.

These replacements are great for deep frying, sautéing, making confits, and basically every other culinary use for cooking oil. With all that being said, let’s help you find a great substitute for peanut oil.

A Quick Rundown on Peanut Oil

refined peanut oil
refined peanut oil

Peanut oil is also known as groundnut oil. It is a light yellow, sweet-smelling oil with a slightly nutty taste. 

It is made from pressing the seeds of the peanut plant to extract the oil. Peanut oil is very popular among Chinese and other Asian cuisines.

As mentioned before, it has a high smoke point of 225C (437F). This makes it ideal for deep frying, as the oil won’t burn. It is also commonly used for sautéing and stir-frying. Peanut oil is also special because it doesn’t retain the flavor of the food cooked in it, so it is great for reusing.

This kind of oil is rich in Vitamin A and E, as well as monounsaturated fats. It also has lots of antioxidants and ‘good’ fats that are great for your skin, hair, and nails.

There are four main variants of this oil:

Cold-Pressed Peanut Oil:

This kind of oil involves using crushing peanuts to produce the oil. The process uses very little heat, so the oil retains a lot of the signature nutty flavor. 

It also has most of its vitamins and nutrients intact. Is this peanut oil healthy? More so than many other oils.

Refined Peanut Oil:

Refined peanut oil is bleached and deodorized, a process that removes the allergenic parts of the oil. This makes it a safe option for people with peanut allergies. It is also commonly used for deep frying things like fries and fried chicken in restaurants.

Roasted or Gourmet Peanut Oil:

With a rich deep color, this kind of oil is made from roasting and isn’t refined. This gives it a more intense and complex flavor. As a result, it is used in stir-fries and confits to kind of infuse the peanutty flavor into foods.

Peanut Oil Blends:

Since peanut oil can be rather pricey on its own, some manufacturers mix it with cheaper oils like safflower or soybean. This kind of peanut oil isn’t as good as cold-pressed or roasted peanut oil as far as taste and quality go, but it is a good option for deep-frying in bulk.

10 Best Substitutes for Peanut Oil

10 Best Oils You Can Use as Peanut Oil Substitutes 9

In this section, you will find the best peanut oil substitutes, what they are best used for, and the products I suggest using for ideal results. So, let’s find out which peanut oil substitute you need in your pantry!

01. Almond Oil:

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Want something very rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats? Almond oil is the ingredient of your choice. It is chock full of Omega-6 and Omega-9 fatty acids so it is pretty food for the heart as well.

Like peanut oil, it has a high smoke point (215C) so it is great for roasting, deep-frying, and stir-fries. Similarly, it also has a mild nutty taste, which adds excellent flavor to many dishes. Besides its use in cooking, it is also used in dressings and is drizzled over food as a finishing touch.

As well as cooking, almond oil is also used in skincare. The oil is light, which makes it a great moisturizer. It is also used as a hair oil as it softens and conditions the hair and scalp. 

When used in masks it softens and moisturizes dry skin on the face and body. It is also a carrier oil for more potent essential oils like tea tree or peppermint.

However, almond oil is pretty expensive and not accessible to anyone. It is available in both refined and cold-pressed forms.

Best for: Frying, sauteing, salad dressings, and roasting

Not Recommended for: People with nut allergies and those on a budget

Product Recommendations: La Tourangelle Almond Oil and BetterBody Foods Non-GMO Avocado Oil

02. Sunflower Oil:

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Sunflower oil is made by pressing the seeds of the sunflower plant to extract the oil. There are four kinds of sunflower oil and they are all high in linoleic or oleic acid. Also, this oil is rich in Vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids.

Once again, it is a good option for deep frying due to a very high smoke point (232C). It has a pretty neutral taste, which makes it good for all kinds of cooking, including baking, roasting, and sauteing.

Some research suggests that sunflower acid can reduce levels of blood cholesterol. However, studies are inconclusive and there isn’t much evidence to confirm this hypothesis. 

Also, although it has a high smoke point, sunflower oil isn’t stable at high temperatures. It may release toxic compounds when heated to high temperatures repeatedly, so reusing it for deep frying is a bad idea.

Unlike peanut or almond oil, sunflower is a neutral oil and doesn’t really have much of a flavor of its own. This makes it great for light and quick frying, as well as a substitute for melted butter in baking. 

Moreover, using it in cooking won’t alter the flavor of the food at all, so it is used in quick dressings and making mayonnaises.

Best for: Everyday cooking, baking, light frying, and sauteing

Not Recommended for: Deep frying

Product Recommendations: Safya 100% Pure Sunflower Oil and Baja Precious High Oleic Sunflower Oil

03. Walnut Oil:

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Walnut oil is a near-perfect substitute for peanut oil, in terms of flavor and taste. Made from walnuts, you can buy this oil in refined and cold-pressed varieties. Walnut oil has many health benefits and contains lots of healthy fats.

At the same time, it has Vitamin E, C, B1, B2, B3, and Niacin. It is also rich in minerals like magnesium, selenium, zinc, and phosphorus. 

These factors make it great for the body, as well as the skin and hair. As a result, cold-pressed walnut oil is used in many cosmetics and skincare products.

Because walnut oil is incredibly expensive, it isn’t wise to use it in things like deep frying or bulk cooking. Instead, it works best in salad dressings, drizzled over dips, and added to things that are already cooked or are eaten raw.

It has a rich and unique flavor, brushing over roasted fish or meat will give it a nutty and delicate flavor. Walnut oil is also great in dipping sauces and works particularly well in desserts and fruit-based dishes.

When heated to high temperatures this complex and pleasant flavor becomes quite bitter. As a result, it is best used raw or lightly warmed.

Best for: Dips, dressings, desserts, and brushed over freshly baked bread, fish, or meat

Not Recommended for: Deep frying and long cooking processes

Product Recommendations: Erbology Organic Cold-Pressed Walnut Oil and Naturevibe Botanicals Walnut Oil

04. Avocado Oil:

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This kind of oil is super trendy at the moment. Extracted from the pulp of the avocado fruit, it is crammed with healthy fats like oleic acid. As a result, it reduces the cholesterol levels in the blood and improves overall heart health.

Avocado oil also has lots of antioxidants, which makes it good for eyesight, hair, and skin as well. Like extra virgin olive oil, it is unrefined and has a mild taste. It has a very high smoke point, so it is good for things like roasting and frying.

Because it isn’t very flavored, it is close to a neutral oil, which means you can cook things like stir-fried noodles, vegetables, and tempura without changing any delicate tastes. Moreover, it is also good for dressings and sauces.

Avocado oil has a very rich and creamy texture, without being thick or cloying. It has an extremely high percentage of monounsaturated fats and Vitamin E. It is great for making things like mayonnaise, Hollandaise, and similar things. However, it is really pricey.

Best for: Deep and shallow frying, roasting, barbecues, dressings, sauces

Not Recommended for: Baking and flavored oils (like chili crisp or garlic oil)

Product Recommendations: BetterBody Foods Refined Non-GMO Cooking Avocado Oil and Primal Kitchen Avocado Oil

You may also like: Can You Freeze Olive Oil?

05. Canola Oil:

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Canola oil is one of the most common oils when used in cooking. Another name for this oil is rapeseed oil. It has a neutral flavor and is rich in monounsaturated fats, making it a relatively healthy option.

It has a lower smoke point when compared to peanut oil, but is still good for frying and roasting. Canola oil is highly processed, which makes many people think it is a rather unhealthy choice. 

The light flavor makes it very good for making infused or flavored oils. It holds onto flavors remarkably well, like garlic, rosemary, and chili flakes.

You can quite easily use canola oil in baking things like carrot cakes, as well as spongy castella cakes. This oil is very similar to conventional vegetable oil, especially in terms of flavor, smoke point, and use in cooking.

Also, canola oil is relatively inexpensive and can be found in almost any grocery store. If you want a more affordable alternative to peanut oil for frying, this is a great option.

Best for: Deep frying, regular cooking, baking, and dressings

Not Recommended for: Confits and vinaigrettes

Product Recommendations: Spectrum Organic Canola Oil and Mazola Canola Oil

06. Grapeseed Oil:

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With a pretty high smoke, grapeseed oil is a great substitute for peanut oil in most cases. This makes it a great option for deep frying, as well as things like pan-frying and everyday cooking. The oil is extracted from grape seeds that are a byproduct of wine-making.

Grapeseed oil is low in nutrients but has a pretty high level of Omega-6 fatty acids. Cold-pressed grapeseed oil is a better option as it involves minimal processing and oxidation. Also, grapeseed oil has lots of Vitamin E, which gives it a few health benefits.

Compared to many other oils mentioned in this list, it isn’t a very healthy option. However, it is a good option for cooking because it can withstand high temperatures and a pretty neutral taste.

However, grapeseed oil is pretty expensive, so using it for deep frying is pretty wasteful.

Best for: Pan-frying, sauteing, and regular cooking

Not Recommended for: Deep frying, sauces, and salad dressings

Product Recommendations: Pompeian 100% Light Grapeseed Oil and La Tourangelle Grapeseed Oil

07. Safflower Oil:

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This is yet another perfect replacement for peanut oil. It has an extremely high smoke point of 266C. 

To make this oil, the seeds of the safflower are crushed and the oil is extracted. It has a neutral taste, which makes it ideal for several different cuisines and recipes.

There are two main varieties of safflower oil, the high oleic and high linoleic variants. The monounsaturated variant of safflower oil is great for deep frying and stir-frying at high temperatures as the oil is pretty stable and can withstand high temperatures.

It is also a good ingredient for regular cooking and even baking. For every ½ cup of solid butter or shortening, use 1/3rd cup of the oil. This is a good choice for cakes and some kinds of bread.

The polyunsaturated form of safflower is a better option in salad dressings and other raw recipes. Because the oil has no flavor of its own, it is good for light and delicate dishes as there won’t be a clash in flavors.

Best for: Deep drying, everyday cooking, baking, and salad dressings

Not Recommended for: Mashed potatoes and dipping sauces

Product Recommendations: Hollywood Safflower and Daana Organic Safflower Oil

08. Sesame Oil:

[amazon box=”B06Y2DMLQ8″]

If that dense, nutty taste is what you are after, sesame oil is a good alternative. The flavor profile is very similar to that of peanut oil, and sesame oil is very popular in East Asian cuisines.

Sesame oil comes in light and dark varieties. Light sesame oil has a high smoke point, making it good for cooking and frying. 

Dark sesame oil, made from roasted sesame seeds, has a more intense flavor and a low smoke point. It loses flavor when heated, so it is unsuitable for high-temp frying.

Instead, it is best for quick stir-fries, Asian-style salads, dipping sauces, or drizzled over dumplings and fried meats. Because the flavor can get lost in complex dishes cooked over a long time, it is best to use sesame oil in raw or lightly heated form.

Unlike many of the other oils mentioned here, sesame oil doesn’t have much to offer in terms of vitamins and minerals. However, it contains lots of fatty acids and antioxidants, as well as phytosterols.

Best for: Salads, stir-fries, dipping sauces, and raw dishes

Not Recommended for: Deep frying and desserts

Product Recommendations: Kadoya Sesame Oil and OTTOGI Premium Roasted Sesame Oil

09. Vegetable Oil:

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Widely used in cooking, vegetable oil is inexpensive and available pretty much everywhere. Vegetable oil is actually a blend of oils extracted from different plants or vegetables. 

Because of this, the ratio of monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and saturated fats differs depending on the blend used by different brands.

To keep things somewhat healthy, avoid using vegetable oil with over 20mg of saturated fats per 100 grams. Either way, vegetable oil isn’t as healthy as canola or safflower. However, it is super convenient to use for pretty much all kinds of cooking, especially frying and roasting as it has a high smoke point.

This oil also has a very neutral taste, which makes it great for everyday cooking. However, vegetable oil is hard to reuse after deep frying as it retains a lot of the smells and flavor of the food you just fried.

The main disadvantage of using vegetable oil is that you have no idea what is in it. As a result, you can’t control exactly what you are consuming. There are also great alternatives to vegetable oil for cooking.

Best for: Frying, regular cooking, baking, and salad dressings

Not Recommended for: Any recipe that requires an oil with its own flavor

Product Recommendations: Amazon Happy Belly Vegetable Oil and WESSON Pure Cholesterol Free Vegetable Oil

10. Soybean Oil:

[amazon box=”B01ETVH4I6″]

If you need to deep fry large batches of chicken or things like fritters and don’t want to use peanut oil, soybean oil is your next best bet. It is heat stable and has a high smoke point (238C) so it can withstand super-hot temperatures without any change in flavor.

The oil is extracted from the seeds of the soybean plant and doesn’t have much of a strong flavor on its own. Combined with the high smoke point, these features make soybean oil extremely versatile so you can use it for all sorts of cooking.

Soybean oil has also been linked to benefits for the teeth, bones, and even the heart. However, it is also a very rich and refined oil that has lots and lots of Omega-6 fats, so it should be consumed in moderation.

It also has plenty of Omega-6 fats, which reduces inflammation and can prevent chronic diseases. Soybean oil can be easily used to replace sunflower, safflower, canola, and vegetable oil and used for cooking and baking.

Best for: Frying, regular cooking, baking, and sauteing

Not Recommended for: Salads and dipping sauces

Product Recommendations: Healthy Harvest Non-GMO Gourmet Soybean Cooking Oil and Wellsley Farms Soybean Oil

peanut oil substitute

Peanut Oil vs. Canola Oil

While canola oil is a decent stand-in for peanut oil, there are a couple of key differences between the two, besides how they are sourced and extracted. We’ll look at a few of these differences here.

Smoke Point:

Peanut oil has a pretty high smoke point of 225C (437F). On the other hand, canola oil has a slightly lower smoke point of 205C (400F). Either way, both can be safely used for deep frying and sauteing.

Fat Content:

Canola oil has a very high percentage of monounsaturated fat. It is 62% monounsaturated fat, along with 31% polyunsaturated fat, and just 7% saturated fat. This makes it comparatively healthy, as far as oils go.

However, peanut oil has a higher proportion of saturated fat. In total, it has 18% saturated fats, making it a tad bit unhealthier than canola oil. It also contains 48% monounsaturated fat and 34% polyunsaturated fat.

Flavor:

Peanut oil has a roasted, deep peanut flavor that is pronounced but not very strong or overpowering. This makes it a great choice for sauteing, stir-fries, and even deep-frying, as it adds a bit of dimension to fried goodies, without altering the taste.

Peanut oil is also good for salads, and in dipping sauces and marinades, as it adds flavor to vegetables and raw ingredients.

On the other hand, canola oil has a neutral flavor so it can be used in pretty much any kind of cooking. It works best for deep frying, braising, grilling and roasting, and everyday cooking. You can even use it for baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below you’ll find answers to questions home cooks tend to have about peanut oil substitutes.

01. Is Peanut Oil Healthy?

Although peanut oil has a significant amount of saturated fats, it also has lots of monounsaturated fats. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, so it is pretty healthy when consumed in moderation.

02. Is Peanut Oil Bad for Me?

Peanut oil is unhealthy when eaten frequently, as it can result in inflammation and high cholesterol levels.

03. Can I Substitute Peanut Oil for Vegetable Oil?

Yes, peanut oil is a good alternative for vegetable oil, especially as there won’t be any noticeable change in flavor for most cooking.

04. Can I Substitute Olive Oil for Peanut Oil?

Olive oil only works as a peanut oil substitute for stir-fries, shallow or pan-frying, and regular cooking. It isn’t a good idea to use olive oil for deep frying as it has a lower smoke point.

05. Can I Substitute Peanut Oil for Butter?

If a recipe calls for melted butter, you can replace it with peanut oil.

06. How Can I Make Peanut Oil from Scratch?

  • Start with a couple of cups of fresh peanuts, with their shells and peels removed.
  • Put the peanuts in a bowl and fill with boiled warm water and soak for 15 minutes.
  • Drain water and then blend peanuts in a blender until very smooth.
  • If the paste gets too stiff, add 1-2 tbsp of warm water.
  • Pour the paste into a sterilized airtight container, cover it, and put it in the fridge.
  • Let it sit, undisturbed for one or two days to let the oil rise to the top.
  • Strain through a fine sieve a couple of times to separate the oil from the peanut paste. There should be no trace of solid peanuts in the oil. Store in a dark container and keep it in a cool and dry place.

07. Does Peanut Oil Have Taste?

Cold-pressed peanut oil has a very mild nutty flavor, while roasted peanut oil has a stronger flavor.

08. Is Peanut Oil Good for Baking?

Using a touch of peanut oil for baking will infuse your baked goods with a nutty taste. However, you shouldn’t replace softened butter with peanut oil when baking.

09. Which Peanut Oil is Best?

For deep frying, cold-pressed peanut oil is the best. But if you are looking for something to drizzle over dumplings, fritters, salads, or dipping sauces without cooking, roasted or gourmet peanut oil is a better option.

Epilogue

Peanut oil is a great cooking ingredient, especially in Asian cuisine. It has lots of vitamins and minerals, a high smoke point, and great flavor which makes it ideal for cooking. However, a lack of peanut oil shouldn’t stop you from deep frying or making fancy salad vinaigrettes.

So the next time you don’t feel like making a trip to the other side of town, just use a peanut oil substitute mentioned here. No one will know the difference!