Out of Condensed broth, one case
Condensed broth substitutes
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Regular broth + reduction
2 cups regular broth for every 1 cup condensed broth
The best condensed broth substitutes are Regular Broth + Reduction, Bouillon + Water, and Stock Concentrate + Water. Use 1:1 ratio and adjust seasonings for optimal results. Condensed broth is concentrated, so you may need to add water to regular broth.
- Best for —
- when you want similar concentration
One casethe full broth card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of 1 cup condensed broth |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Regular broth + reductionwhen you want similar concentration | 2 cups |
| 2 | Bouillon + waterwhen you need concentrated flavor | 1 cube + ½ cup water |
| 3 | Stock concentrate + waterwhen you need concentrated flavor | 1 tsp concentrate + ½ cup water |
| 4 | Regular broth + cornstarchwhen you want similar texture | 1 cup regular broth + 1 tsp cornstarchWorks |
| 5 | Water + seasonings + thickenerwhen you want to control flavor | ½ cup water + seasonings + 1 tsp cornstarch |
Regular broth + reduction
very similar · similar texture
Regular broth reduced by half provides similar concentration and flavor to condensed broth. Simmer regular broth until it's reduced by half for best results.
- Best for
- when you want similar concentration, soups, stews, gravies, when you have time
Regular broth needs to be reduced by half to match the concentration of condensed broth. Simmer until reduced by half for best results.
Bouillon + water
very similar · similar texture
Bouillon cubes dissolved in half the usual amount of water provide concentrated flavor similar to condensed broth. This is convenient for quick cooking.
- Best for
- when you need concentrated flavor, quick preparation, emergency substitution, gravies, soups
Dissolve 1 bouillon cube in ½ cup hot water. Adjust salt in your recipe as bouillon cubes are salty.
Stock concentrate + water
very similar · similar texture
Stock concentrate mixed with half the usual amount of water provides concentrated flavor similar to condensed broth. This gives you control over the strength of the flavor.
- Best for
- when you need concentrated flavor, quick preparation, controlling flavor intensity, professional cooking
Start with less concentrate and add more to taste. This gives you precise control over the final flavor.
Regular broth + cornstarch
similar taste and texture
Regular broth thickened with cornstarch provides similar texture and concentration to condensed broth. This works well when you want to mimic the thickness of condensed broth.
- Best for
- when you want similar texture, soups, stews, when you want thickness, quick preparation
Mix cornstarch with cold water first, then add to hot broth. This creates a thicker, more concentrated texture.
Water + seasonings + thickener
basic but flavorful · similar texture
Water enhanced with seasonings and thickened with cornstarch provides a basic substitute for condensed broth. This works well when you want to control the flavor profile.
- Best for
- when you want to control flavor, simple recipes, emergency substitution, when other broths unavailable
Add seasonings gradually and taste as you go. Mix cornstarch with cold water first, then add to hot liquid.
How it behaves in this recipe
Condensed broth provides concentrated flavor and texture to dishes. The best substitutes work because they either provide similar concentration and flavor, or can be enhanced with seasonings and thickeners to achieve comparable results.
Tips for substituting condensed 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 condensed broth
- Make your own condensed broth by simmering regular broth until reduced by half
- Use broth drippings or pan juices to enhance any substitute broth
- Combine multiple substitutes (like regular broth + bouillon) for more complex flavor
- Consider using broth concentrate for professional results
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best substitute for condensed broth?
Regular broth reduced by half is the best substitute for condensed broth. It provides similar concentration and flavor. Bouillon + water works well for quick preparation, while stock concentrate + water gives you control over flavor intensity.
Can I use regular broth instead of condensed broth?
Yes, but you'll need to reduce it by half to match the concentration of condensed broth. Simmer regular broth until it's reduced by half for best results.
What's the difference between condensed broth and regular broth?
Condensed broth is concentrated and has a stronger flavor than regular broth. Regular broth is lighter and needs to be reduced or thickened to match condensed broth.
How do I make condensed broth substitute taste more like condensed broth?
Add umami-rich ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or nutritional yeast. You can also add cornstarch to regular broth for similar texture and concentration.
Can I use water instead of condensed broth?
While water can work in a pinch, it won't provide the depth and flavor of condensed broth. If using water, add seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a splash of soy sauce to improve the flavor.