Doubanjiang substitutes
Doubanjiang substitutes — 5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Gochujang
Same amount as the doubanjiang
Korean fermented chili paste with similar umami depth.
The best substitutes for doubanjiang are gochujang, miso paste with chili, or fermented bean paste with hot sauce.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- stir-fries
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of doubanjiang | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gochujangstir-fries | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Miso paste + chilisauces | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Fermented bean paste + hot saucestir-fries | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Hoisin sauce + chilimarinades | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Black bean sauce + chilistir-fries | Same amountWorks | Works |
Gochujang
similar taste and texture
Korean fermented chili paste with similar umami depth.
- Best for
- stir-fries, marinades, sauces, braised dishes
Similar fermented flavor with different spice profile.
Miso paste + chili
similar taste and texture
Japanese fermented soybean paste mixed with chili.
- Best for
- sauces, marinades, soups, stir-fries
Similar umami depth, adjust chili to taste.
Fermented bean paste + hot sauce
similar taste and texture
Chinese fermented bean paste mixed with hot sauce.
- Best for
- stir-fries, braised dishes, sauces, marinades
Similar base with different heat level.
Hoisin sauce + chili
different taste, similar texture
Sweet bean sauce mixed with chili for heat.
- Best for
- marinades, sauces, stir-fries, glazes
Sweeter but similar umami depth.
Black bean sauce + chili
similar taste and texture
Fermented black bean sauce with added heat.
- Best for
- stir-fries, sauces, marinades, braised dishes
Similar fermented base with different beans.
Questions
4 questionsWhat is doubanjiang made from?
Doubanjiang is made from fermented broad beans, chili peppers, salt, and sometimes wheat flour. It's aged for months to develop deep umami flavors.
Can I use gochujang instead of doubanjiang?
Yes, gochujang is a good substitute as it's also a fermented chili paste. It has similar umami depth though the flavor profile is slightly different.
Is doubanjiang very spicy?
Doubanjiang can be quite spicy depending on the brand and type. It also has a strong fermented, salty flavor that's very potent.
How do I store doubanjiang?
Store doubanjiang in the refrigerator after opening. It will keep for months due to the fermentation and salt content.
Tips for substituting doubanjiang
6 tips- Doubanjiang adds deep umami and heat to Sichuan dishes
- Always cook doubanjiang briefly to release its flavors
- It pairs well with garlic, ginger, and Sichuan peppercorns
- Use sparingly as it's very potent and salty
- Store in refrigerator after opening
- The oil that separates on top is also flavorful