Garlic substitutes
Garlic substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Garlic powder
Same amount as the garlic
Same ingredient with different form.
The best substitutes for garlic are garlic powder, shallots, or onion, depending on the use.
Garlic is pure flavour — it holds nothing together and changes no texture, so a swap can only fail on taste, and very few things actually taste of garlic.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- similar taste, different texture
- Best for —
- seasoning
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
- Jobs
- Aroma & flavor identityprimary
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of garlic | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Garlic powderseasoning | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Shallotscooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Onioncooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Garlic saltseasoning | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Asafoetidacooking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 6 | Chivescooking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Garlic powder
similar taste, different texture
Same ingredient with different form.
- Covers
- Aroma & flavor identity
- Best for
- seasoning, marinades, sauces, rubs
Different form, same flavor.
Shallots
different taste, similar texture
Similar vegetable with different flavor.
- Misses
- Aroma & flavor identity — not covered
- Best for
- cooking, seasoning, marinades, sauces
Different flavor, similar pungency.
Onion
different taste, similar texture
Similar vegetable with different flavor.
- Misses
- Aroma & flavor identity — not covered
- Best for
- cooking, seasoning, marinades, sauces
Different flavor, similar pungency.
Garlic salt
similar taste, different texture
Same ingredient with different form.
- Covers
- Aroma & flavor identity
- Best for
- seasoning, marinades, sauces, rubs
Different form, same flavor.
Asafoetida
different taste and texture
Similar spice with different source.
- Covers
- Aroma & flavor identity
- Best for
- cooking, seasoning, marinades, sauces
Different source, similar pungency.
Chives
different taste and texture
Similar herb with different flavor.
- Misses
- Aroma & flavor identity — not covered
- Best for
- cooking, seasoning, marinades, sauces
Different flavor, similar pungency.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, garlic powder is a good substitute for fresh garlic. It has a similar flavor and can be used in most recipes.
What's the difference between garlic and garlic powder?
Garlic is fresh cloves, while garlic powder is dried and ground garlic. Both have garlic flavor but different forms and intensities.
Can I use shallots instead of garlic?
Yes, shallots can work as a substitute, though they have a different flavor. They provide similar pungency and can be used in most recipes.
Why is garlic so popular in cooking?
Garlic is popular because it adds pungent, savory flavor and is versatile in many different types of cuisine and dishes.
Tips for substituting garlic
6 tips- Garlic adds pungent, savory flavor to dishes
- Garlic can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Garlic pairs well with onions, herbs, and spices
- Garlic works well in most cuisines and dishes
- Garlic can be used to make marinades and sauces
- Store garlic in a cool, dry place