Chili garlic paste substitutes
Chili garlic paste substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Sriracha
Same amount as the chili garlic paste
Similar paste with different flavor.
The best substitutes for chili garlic paste are sriracha, sambal oelek, or a homemade blend, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- marinades
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of chili garlic paste | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Srirachamarinades | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Sambal oelekmarinades | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Homemade chili garlic pastemarinades | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Chili powder + garlicmarinades | Same amountPlus 1 clove garlic per tbspYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 5 | Hot saucemarinades | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 6 | Red pepper flakes + garlicmarinades | Same amountPlus 1 clove garlic per tbspYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Sriracha
different taste, similar texture
Similar paste with different flavor.
- Best for
- marinades, sauces, rubs, dips
Different flavor, similar heat.
Sambal oelek
different taste, similar texture
Similar paste with different flavor.
- Best for
- marinades, sauces, rubs, dips
Different flavor, similar heat.
Homemade chili garlic paste
similar taste and texture
Same paste with different preparation.
- Best for
- marinades, sauces, rubs, dips
Different preparation, same flavor.
Chili powder + garlic
different taste and texture
Similar combination with different preparation.
- Best for
- marinades, sauces, rubs, dips
Different preparation, similar flavor.
Hot sauce
different taste and texture
Similar product with different form.
- Best for
- marinades, sauces, rubs, dips
Different form, similar heat.
Red pepper flakes + garlic
different taste and texture
Similar combination with different preparation.
- Best for
- marinades, sauces, rubs, dips
Different preparation, similar heat.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use sriracha instead of chili garlic paste?
Yes, sriracha is a good substitute for chili garlic paste. It has a different flavor but similar heat and can be used in most recipes.
What's the difference between chili garlic paste and sriracha?
Chili garlic paste is made from chili peppers and garlic, while sriracha is made from chili peppers, vinegar, and garlic. Both have heat but different flavor profiles.
Can I use sambal oelek instead of chili garlic paste?
Yes, sambal oelek can work as a substitute, though it has a different flavor. It provides similar heat and can be used in most recipes.
Why is chili garlic paste so popular in Asian cooking?
Chili garlic paste is popular because it adds spicy, garlicky flavor and is a key ingredient in many traditional Asian dishes and marinades.
Tips for substituting chili garlic paste
6 tips- Chili garlic paste adds spicy, garlicky flavor to dishes
- Chili garlic paste can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Chili garlic paste pairs well with soy sauce, ginger, and lime
- Chili garlic paste works well in Asian and Southeast Asian cuisines
- Chili garlic paste can be used to make marinades and sauces
- Store chili garlic paste in the refrigerator