Red Chili Paste Substitutes: for Any Recipe Complete Guide
Find the best substitutes for red chili paste in any recipe. Learn proper ratios, techniques, and tips for perfect spicy results every time.
Quick Answer
The best red chili paste substitutes are Sriracha, Red Pepper Flakes + Oil, and Gochujang. Use 1:1 ratio for Sriracha and Gochujang, or 1 tsp flakes + 1 tbsp oil for the flakes mixture.
Best Substitutes
Sriracha
1:1Popular red hot sauce with similar heat and tanginess to red chili paste. Perfect for most recipes that call for red chili paste.
Best for:
Sriracha has a slightly different flavor profile but works well in most applications. Use in equal amounts by volume.
Red Pepper Flakes + Oil
1 tsp flakes + 1 tbsp oilSimple combination that provides heat and oil content similar to red chili paste. Great for when you want to control the heat level.
Best for:
Mix red pepper flakes with olive oil or vegetable oil. Adjust the amount of flakes based on desired heat level.
Gochujang
1:1Korean fermented red chili paste with deep umami flavor and moderate heat. Excellent for Asian dishes and marinades.
Best for:
Gochujang has a unique fermented taste and is slightly sweeter than regular red chili paste. Use in equal amounts.
Cayenne Pepper + Tomato Paste
1/2 tsp cayenne + 1 tbsp tomato pasteSpicy combination with tomato base that mimics the texture and some flavor of red chili paste.
Best for:
This combination provides heat and body similar to red chili paste. Adjust cayenne amount based on desired heat level.
Hot Sauce + Oil
2:1 hot sauce to oilThickened hot sauce mixture that provides similar consistency and heat to red chili paste.
Best for:
Mix your favorite red hot sauce with a bit of oil to thicken it. Use a 2:1 ratio of hot sauce to oil.
Cooking Tips
- 💡Red chili paste is typically made from red chilies, so choose substitutes that use similar peppers
- 💡For best results, taste as you go when substituting red chili paste
- 💡Different red chili pastes have different heat levels - adjust your substitute accordingly
- 💡Red chili paste often contains garlic and other seasonings - consider adding these to your substitute
- 💡Store homemade red chili paste substitutes in the refrigerator for up to a week
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Sriracha instead of red chili paste?
Yes, Sriracha is one of the best substitutes for red chili paste. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, though it has a slightly different flavor profile with more tanginess.
What's the best ratio for red chili paste substitute?
For Sriracha and Gochujang, use 1:1 ratio. For red pepper flakes, use 1 tsp flakes with 1 tbsp oil. For cayenne + tomato paste, use 1/2 tsp cayenne with 1 tbsp tomato paste.
Why doesn't my dish taste right with red chili paste substitutes?
Common issues include using too much substitute, not accounting for different heat levels, or missing additional seasonings. Start with less substitute and add more gradually, and consider adding garlic or other seasonings that might be in the original red chili paste.
Can I make my own red chili paste substitute?
Yes, blend dried red chilies with oil, garlic, and seasonings, then cook until thick. You can also mix red hot sauce with oil and seasonings for a quick substitute.
What's the difference between red chili paste and other chili pastes?
Red chili paste is specifically made from red chilies and typically has a bright red color. Other chili pastes may use different colored peppers or have different flavor profiles.
Summary
Find the best substitutes for red chili paste in any recipe. Learn proper ratios, techniques, and tips for perfect spicy results every time.