Bone broth substitutes
Bone broth substitutes — 5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Chicken stock
Same amount as the bone broth
Similar rich, flavorful stock with deep umami flavor.
The best substitutes for bone broth are chicken stock, beef stock, or vegetable stock.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- soups
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of bone broth | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chicken stocksoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Beef stocksoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Vegetable stocksoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Fish stocksoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Mushroom stocksoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
Chicken stock
similar taste and texture
Similar rich, flavorful stock with deep umami flavor.
- Best for
- soups, stews, sauces, braising
Very similar to bone broth in flavor and texture.
Beef stock
similar taste and texture
Similar rich, flavorful stock with deep umami flavor.
- Best for
- soups, stews, sauces, braising
Very similar to bone broth in flavor and texture.
Vegetable stock
similar taste and texture
Similar rich, flavorful stock with deep umami flavor.
- Best for
- soups, stews, sauces, braising
Very similar to bone broth in flavor and texture.
Fish stock
similar taste and texture
Similar rich, flavorful stock with deep umami flavor.
- Best for
- soups, stews, sauces, braising
Very similar to bone broth in flavor and texture.
Mushroom stock
similar taste and texture
Similar rich, flavorful stock with deep umami flavor.
- Best for
- soups, stews, sauces, braising
Very similar to bone broth in flavor and texture.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use chicken stock instead of bone broth?
Yes, chicken stock is an excellent substitute for bone broth. It has a very similar rich, flavorful taste and deep umami flavor, making it good for the same applications.
What's the difference between bone broth and beef stock?
Bone broth is a rich, flavorful stock made from bones with a deep umami flavor, while beef stock is a similar rich, flavorful stock with a similar deep umami flavor. Both work well in similar applications but have different cultural origins.
Can I make bone broth at home?
Yes, you can make bone broth at home by properly simmering bones with vegetables and herbs. However, this process requires careful attention to simmering times and can be time-consuming.
How long does bone broth last?
Bone broth can last for 3-5 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. However, it's best to use it within 2-3 days for optimal flavor and texture.
Tips for substituting bone broth
7 tips- Bone broth is best when used in soups and stews for its rich flavor
- Store bone broth in the refrigerator and use within 3-5 days
- Bone broth pairs well with herbs, vegetables, and grains
- For soups, bone broth adds depth and richness to dishes
- Bone broth can be used in both sweet and savory applications
- Add bone broth gradually to avoid overpowering other flavors
- Bone broth works well in marinades, dressings, and sauces