Out of Vegetable broth, one case
Vegetable broth substitutes, case by case
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Chicken broth
Same amount as the vegetable broth
The best vegetable broth substitutes are Chicken Broth, Beef Broth, and Water + Seasonings. Use 1:1 ratio and adjust seasonings for optimal results. Each substitute works well in different types of recipes.
- Best for —
- soups
One casethe full broth card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of vegetable broth |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chicken brothsoups | Same amount |
| 2 | Beef brothhearty dishes | Same amount |
| 3 | Water + seasoningswhen you want to control flavor | 1 cup water + 1 tsp salt + herbs/spices |
| 4 | Vegetable bouillon + waterwhen you need vegetable flavor | 1 cube + 1 cup water |
| 5 | Mushroom brothvegetarian dishes | Same amount |
Chicken broth
richer · similar texture
Chicken broth is the most versatile substitute for vegetable broth. It provides similar savory depth and works well in most recipes. It has a richer flavor profile than vegetable broth.
- Best for
- soups, stews, gravies, rice dishes, braising
Chicken broth has a richer flavor than vegetable broth. It works well in most recipes but may overpower lighter dishes.
Beef broth
stronger · similar texture
Beef broth provides rich, savory depth as a substitute for vegetable broth. It has a stronger flavor profile and works well in hearty dishes. It's particularly good for stews and braised dishes.
- Best for
- hearty dishes, stews, braised dishes, when you want rich flavor, meat-based recipes
Beef broth has a stronger, more robust flavor than vegetable broth. It works well in hearty dishes but may overpower lighter recipes.
Water + seasonings
basic but flavorful · similar texture
Water enhanced with seasonings provides a basic substitute for vegetable broth. It's simple and works well when you want to control the flavor profile. Add salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs to taste.
- Best for
- when you want to control flavor, simple recipes, emergency substitution, when other broths unavailable
This creates a basic but flavorful liquid. Add seasonings gradually and taste as you go. Consider adding a splash of soy sauce for umami.
Vegetable bouillon + water
very similar · similar texture
Vegetable bouillon cubes dissolved in water provide concentrated vegetable flavor. This is the closest substitute to homemade vegetable broth and is convenient for quick cooking.
- Best for
- when you need vegetable 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.
Mushroom broth
earthy · similar texture
Mushroom broth provides excellent umami flavor that works well as a substitute for vegetable broth. It's particularly good for vegetarian cooking and adds earthy, rich notes.
- Best for
- vegetarian dishes, mushroom-based recipes, risottos, soups, when you want umami depth
Mushroom broth has a strong earthy flavor. It works especially well in mushroom-based dishes and vegetarian cooking.
How it behaves in this recipe
Vegetable broth provides savory depth and umami flavor to dishes. The best substitutes work because they either provide similar umami quality, or can be enhanced with seasonings to achieve comparable results.
Tips for substituting vegetable 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 vegetable broth
- Make your own vegetable broth by simmering vegetables, herbs, and spices for 1-2 hours
- Use vegetable drippings or pan juices to enhance any substitute broth
- Combine multiple substitutes (like chicken broth + mushroom broth) for more complex flavor
- Consider using vegetable stock concentrate for professional results
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best substitute for vegetable broth?
Chicken broth is the best all-around substitute for vegetable broth. It provides similar savory depth and works well in most recipes. Beef broth works well for hearty dishes, while water + seasonings is good for simple recipes.
Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, chicken broth works well as a substitute for vegetable broth. Use a 1:1 ratio and it will provide richer flavor than vegetable broth.
What's the difference between vegetable broth and chicken broth?
Vegetable broth is made with vegetables and herbs, while chicken broth is made with chicken meat and vegetables. Chicken broth has a richer, more savory flavor than vegetable broth.
Can I use water instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, but enhance it with seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs. For better flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for umami depth.
How do I make vegetable broth substitute taste more like vegetables?
Add umami-rich ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or nutritional yeast. You can also add vegetable bouillon cubes or vegetable stock concentrate for more authentic vegetable flavor.