Fish broth substitutes
Fish broth substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Vegetable broth
Same amount as the fish broth
Similar liquid with different source.
The best substitutes for fish broth are vegetable broth, chicken broth, or dashi, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- soups
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of fish broth | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vegetable brothsoups | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Chicken brothsoups | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Dashisoups | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Seafood stocksoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Water + seasoningsoups | Same amountPlus 1 tsp seasoning per cupTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Miso paste + watersoups | Same amountPlus 1 tbsp miso per cupTweak it | Tweak it |
Vegetable broth
different taste, similar texture
Similar liquid with different source.
- Best for
- soups, stews, sauces, braising
Different source, similar flavor.
Chicken broth
different taste, similar texture
Similar liquid with different source.
- Best for
- soups, stews, sauces, braising
Different source, similar flavor.
Dashi
different taste, similar texture
Similar liquid with different source.
- Best for
- soups, stews, sauces, braising
Different source, similar flavor.
Seafood stock
similar taste and texture
Similar liquid with different source.
- Best for
- soups, stews, sauces, braising
Different source, similar flavor.
Water + seasoning
different taste, similar texture
Similar combination with different preparation.
- Best for
- soups, stews, sauces, braising
Different preparation, similar flavor.
Miso paste + water
different taste, similar texture
Similar combination with different preparation.
- Best for
- soups, stews, sauces, braising
Different preparation, similar flavor.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use vegetable broth instead of fish broth?
Yes, vegetable broth is a good substitute for fish broth. It has a different flavor but similar texture and can be used in most recipes.
What's the difference between fish broth and vegetable broth?
Fish broth is made from fish bones, while vegetable broth is made from vegetables. Both provide flavor but have different sources and flavors.
Can I use chicken broth instead of fish broth?
Yes, chicken broth can work as a substitute, though it has a different flavor. It provides similar texture and can be used in most recipes.
Why is fish broth so popular in seafood cooking?
Fish broth is popular because it adds seafood flavor and is good for making bouillabaisse and other seafood dishes.
Tips for substituting fish broth
6 tips- Fish broth adds seafood flavor to dishes
- Fish broth can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Fish broth pairs well with vegetables, herbs, and spices
- Fish broth works well in soups and stews
- Fish broth can be used to make bouillabaisse and cioppino
- Store fish broth in the refrigerator or freezer