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Out of chili garlic paste?

Chili Garlic Paste substitutes

Chili Garlic Paste is Spicy paste made from chili peppers and garlic, used in Asian cooking and marinades.

Use this

Sriracha

Use the same amount as the chili garlic paste you are replacing

Different tasteBest for marinades

The best substitutes for chili garlic paste are sriracha, sambal oelek, or a homemade blend, depending on the use.

At a glance

Every chili garlic paste substitute on one screen. Tap a name for detail.

Chili Garlic Paste substitutes compared
#SubstituteInstead of chili garlic paste, use
1SrirachaSame amount
2Sambal OelekSame amount
3Homemade Chili Garlic PasteSame amount
4Chili Powder + GarlicSame amount, + 1 clove garlic per tbsp
5Hot SauceSame amount
6Red Pepper Flakes + GarlicSame amount, + 1 clove garlic per tbsp

Every chili garlic paste substitute

Ranked, with the exact amount and what changes

Substitutes for Chili Garlic Paste with ratios

  1. 1. Sriracha

    Different taste

    Use the same amount

    Similar paste with different flavor

    What changes
    Best for
    marinades, sauces, rubs, dips

    Different flavor, similar heat

  2. 2. Sambal Oelek

    Different taste

    Use the same amount

    Similar paste with different flavor

    What changes
    Best for
    marinades, sauces, rubs, dips

    Different flavor, similar heat

  3. 3. Homemade Chili Garlic Paste

    Close match

    Use the same amount

    Same paste with different preparation

    What changes
    Best for
    marinades, sauces, rubs, dips

    Different preparation, same flavor

  4. 4. Chili Powder + Garlic

    Taste and texture differ

    Use the same amount + 1 clove garlic per tbsp

    Similar combination with different preparation

    What changes
    Best for
    marinades, sauces, rubs, dips

    Different preparation, similar flavor

  5. 5. Hot Sauce

    Taste and texture differ

    Use the same amount

    Similar product with different form

    What changes
    Best for
    marinades, sauces, rubs, dips

    Different form, similar heat

  6. 6. Red Pepper Flakes + Garlic

    Taste and texture differ

    Use the same amount + 1 clove garlic per tbsp

    Similar combination with different preparation

    What changes
    Best for
    marinades, sauces, rubs, dips

    Different preparation, similar heat

Tips for substituting chili garlic paste

  • 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

Questions about chili garlic paste substitutes

Can 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.

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