3 proven alternatives for baking, cooking, and more
RATIO:
1:1
BEST FOR:
BAKING CONTEXT:
Works in recipes.
💡 PRO TIPS:
Most chicken broth is accidentally vegan.
RECOMMENDED BRANDS:
Most brands
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RATIO:
1:1
BEST FOR:
BAKING CONTEXT:
Works in recipes.
💡 PRO TIPS:
More umami and depth.
RECOMMENDED BRANDS:
Dried mushrooms
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RATIO:
1 cup broth + 1 tbsp yeast
BEST FOR:
BAKING CONTEXT:
Works in recipes.
💡 PRO TIPS:
Adds savory chicken-like taste.
RECOMMENDED BRANDS:
Bob's Red Mill
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| Substitute | Best For | Texture Result | Flavor | Cost per Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vegetable Broth | Light soups, stews, risottos | Thin, smooth liquid | Mild vegetable undertones | $2.50 - $3.50 per carton |
| Mushroom Broth | Earthy dishes, risottos, gravies | Rich, slightly thicker consistency | Deep umami, savory profile | $3.00 - $4.50 per carton |
| Miso Paste Dilution | Asian-inspired recipes, marinades | Smooth, slightly dense | Intense, salty, complex umami | $4.00 - $6.00 per jar |
| Nutritional Yeast Broth | Vegan casseroles, sauces | Light, consistent liquid | Nutty, cheesy undertones | $5.00 - $7.00 per container |
| Store-Bought Vegan Chicken Broth | Direct replacement, universal use | Identical to chicken broth | Very close to original chicken flavor | $3.50 - $5.00 per carton |
Quick Decision Guide: Choose vegetable broth for light dishes, mushroom broth for deeper flavors, miso for Asian recipes, nutritional yeast for cheesy notes, and store-bought vegan chicken broth for the closest match to traditional chicken broth. Consider your specific recipe's flavor profile and desired outcome when selecting a substitute.
Best: Mushroom Broth, Kombu Dashi, Vegetable Stock
Use in: Soups, Risottos, Braised Dishes, Grain Cooking
Why: Provides deep umami and complex savory notes without animal products
Best: White Wine, Vegetable Liquid, Herb Infusions
Use in: Casseroles, Baked Dishes, Slow Cooker Recipes
Why: Prevents dryness while adding nuanced liquid base
Best: Seaweed Broth, Nutritional Yeast Liquid
Use in: Protein-Rich Meals, Recovery Dishes, Wellness Cooking
Why: Adds mineral-rich liquid with additional nutrient profile
Best: Coconut Water, Herb Tea, Miso Liquid
Use in: Steaming, Poaching, Quick Cooking Techniques
Why: Provides efficient thermal conductivity with aromatic undertones
Why it happens: Home cooks often assume water can simply substitute broth without adjusting seasoning.
✅ The Fix:
Why it happens: Different broth alternatives have dramatically different salt levels.
✅ The Fix:
Why it happens: Not all broth substitutes complement every recipe equally.
✅ The Fix:
Why it happens: Different broths have varying water content and viscosity.
✅ The Fix:
💡 Pro Tip: The key to successful broth substitution is experimentation and trusting your taste buds!
Expect a milder flavor profile compared to traditional chicken broth. Vegetable broth offers a gentle vegetable essence, while mushroom broth provides a deeper, umami-rich alternative. Seasoning with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage can help replicate the savory depth of chicken broth.
Most substitutes will maintain a similar liquid consistency to chicken broth. Homemade vegetable stock tends to be slightly thinner, while miso-based broths can offer a slightly more viscous texture. When reducing or using in sauces, you might need to adjust cooking times to achieve desired thickness.
Substitutes will typically range from pale golden to light brown. Vegetable broth appears lighter, while mushroom broth offers a deeper, more amber tone. Clear broths work best for light-colored dishes, whereas richer broths can add depth to stews and gravies.
✅ Multiple plant-based alternatives exist for chicken broth
✅ Seasoning can dramatically improve substitute flavors
✅ Some experimentation may be needed to find your perfect match
✅ Creativity is key in finding delicious, satisfying broth replacements
Excellent liquid alternatives include vegetable broth, mushroom broth, and water with added seasonings to mimic depth of flavor.
Pro Tip: Always match substitute intensity to your specific recipe's requirements.
Storage duration varies depending on the substitute type and preparation method.
Recommendation: Always check for signs of spoilage before use.
Most substitutes can be allergen-friendly, but careful selection is crucial.
Always read labels and consult ingredient lists for specific dietary needs.
Different cooking techniques require specific broth characteristics.
Match substitute intensity to cooking complexity.
Simple techniques can transform basic substitutes into rich, complex liquids.
Experiment with layered seasoning techniques.
Budget-friendly alternatives exist for creating flavorful broths.
Homemade methods provide best value and control.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This tool provides general information about vegan ingredient substitutions based on common cooking practices. Results may vary based on recipe specifics, brands, and cooking methods. Always check ingredient labels for allergens and dietary restrictions. We are not nutritionists or medical professionals. Consult a healthcare provider for specific dietary advice. Some information may be AI-generated — verify critical details with trusted sources.