Out of Bone broth, one case
Bone broth substitutes: rich & nutritious options
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Regular broth
Same amount as the bone broth
The best bone broth substitutes are Regular Broth, Stock, and Bouillon + Water. Use 1:1 ratio and adjust seasonings for optimal results. Bone broth is richer and more nutritious than regular broth, so consider adding gelatin for similar texture.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- soups
One casethe full broth card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of bone broth | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Regular brothsoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Stocksoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Bouillon + waterwhen you need concentrated flavor | 1 cube + 1 cup water | No verdict on record |
| 4 | Regular broth + gelatinwhen you want similar texture | 1 cup broth + 1 tsp gelatinWorks | Works |
| 5 | Water + seasonings + gelatinwhen you want to control flavor | 1 cup water + 1 tsp gelatin + seasonings | No verdict on record |
Regular broth
similar taste and texture
Regular broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable) is the most direct substitute for bone broth. It provides similar flavor and works well in most recipes, though it may be less rich and nutritious.
- Best for
- soups, stews, gravies, rice dishes, braising
Regular broth is less rich and nutritious than bone broth. It works well in most recipes but may need additional seasoning for depth.
Stock
similar taste and texture
Stock provides similar flavor and texture to bone broth. It's made with bones and has more gelatin content than regular broth, making it closer to bone broth in texture and richness.
- Best for
- soups, stews, gravies, when you want rich texture, braising
Stock has more gelatin content than regular broth, making it closer to bone broth in texture. It works well in most recipes.
Bouillon + water
very similar · similar texture
Bouillon cubes dissolved in water provide concentrated flavor similar to bone broth. This is convenient for quick cooking and works well in most recipes.
- Best for
- when you need concentrated flavor, quick preparation, emergency substitution, gravies, soups
Dissolve 1 bouillon cube in 1 cup hot water. Adjust salt in your recipe as bouillon cubes are salty.
Regular broth + gelatin
similar taste and texture
Regular broth enhanced with gelatin provides similar texture and richness to bone broth. This works well when you want to mimic the gelatinous quality of bone broth.
- Best for
- when you want similar texture, soups, stews, when you want rich texture
Add gelatin to regular broth and let it set. This creates a richer, more gelatinous texture similar to bone broth.
Water + seasonings + gelatin
basic but flavorful · similar texture
Water enhanced with seasonings and gelatin provides a basic substitute for bone broth. This works well when you want to control the flavor profile and mimic the texture of bone broth.
- Best for
- when you want to control flavor, simple recipes, emergency substitution, when other broths unavailable
Add gelatin to water and seasonings. This creates a basic but flavorful liquid with similar texture to bone broth.
How it behaves in this recipe
Bone broth provides rich, savory depth and nutritional benefits to dishes. The best substitutes work because they either provide similar flavor and texture, or can be enhanced with seasonings and gelatin to achieve comparable results.
Tips for substituting bone broth
5 tips- For best results, warm your substitute broth before adding to hot dishes
- Add umami boosters like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or nutritional yeast to enhance flavor
- If using a lighter substitute like water, consider reducing it slightly to concentrate flavor
- Taste and adjust seasoning after substitution, as different broths have varying salt levels
- For rich dishes, consider adding a splash of wine to enhance depth
Notes on bone broth
- Make your own bone broth by simmering bones, meat, and vegetables for 12-24 hours
- Use bone drippings or pan juices to enhance any substitute broth
- Combine multiple substitutes (like regular broth + stock) for more complex flavor
- Consider using bone broth concentrate for professional results
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best substitute for bone broth?
Regular broth is the best all-around substitute for bone broth. It provides similar flavor and works well in most recipes. Stock is closer in texture and richness, while bouillon + water is convenient for quick cooking.
Can I use regular broth instead of bone broth?
Yes, regular broth works well as a substitute for bone broth. Use a 1:1 ratio and it will provide similar flavor, though it may be less rich and nutritious than bone broth.
What's the difference between bone broth and regular broth?
Bone broth is made with bones and simmered for a long time, making it richer and more nutritious. Regular broth is made with meat and vegetables and is lighter in flavor and texture.
How do I make bone broth substitute taste more like bone broth?
Add umami-rich ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or nutritional yeast. You can also add gelatin to regular broth for similar texture and richness.
Can I use water instead of bone broth?
While water can work in a pinch, it won't provide the depth and flavor of bone broth. If using water, add seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a splash of soy sauce to improve the flavor.