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Ingredient substitution guide

The most common swaps with their amounts, then the ingredients we cover grouped by category, each linking to its own card.

Quick reference

6 swaps

The swaps people look up most, as they appear on their cards

Quick reference
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Butter	Stick margarine1 cup per cupTweak it	1 cup per cup	Tweak it
Eggs	Flax egg1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water per eggTweak it	1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water per egg	Tweak it
Buttermilk	Milk + lemon juice or vinegar1 cup milk + 1 tbsp acid per 1 cup buttermilkTweak it	1 cup milk + 1 tbsp acid per 1 cup buttermilk	Tweak it
Heavy cream	Half and half + butter¾ cup half-and-half + ¼ cup melted butter per 1 cup heavy creamTweak it	¾ cup half-and-half + ¼ cup melted butter per 1 cup heavy cream	Tweak it
Baking powder	Baking soda + vinegar or lemon juice¼ tsp baking soda + 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice per 1 tsp baking powderTweak it	¼ tsp baking soda + 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice per 1 tsp baking powder	Tweak it
Cornstarch	All-purpose flour2 tbsp per 1 tbspTweak it	2 tbsp per 1 tbsp	Tweak it

Acids

All 3 cards

Acids
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Citric acid	Lemon juice2-3 tbsp lemon juice per 1 tsp citric acidYou'll taste it	2-3 tbsp lemon juice per 1 tsp citric acid	You'll taste it
Malic acid	Citric acid¾ to 1 tsp citric acid per 1 tsp malic acidTweak it	¾ to 1 tsp citric acid per 1 tsp malic acid	Tweak it
Tartaric acid	Citric acid1 ¼ tsp citric acid per 1 tsp tartaric acidTweak it	1 ¼ tsp citric acid per 1 tsp tartaric acid	Tweak it

Alcohol & vinegars

All 159 cards

Alcohol & vinegars
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Aged balsamic vinegar (Tradizionale)	Reduced supermarket balsamic vinegarSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Amaretto	Almond extract + simple syrup¼ tsp almond extract + 1 oz simple syrup per 1 oz amarettoWorks	¼ tsp almond extract + 1 oz simple syrup per 1 oz amaretto	Works
Amaro Nonino	AvernaSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Amaro	AvernaSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Amarone	Valpolicella RipassoSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Amer Picon	CampariSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Amontillado sherry	Dry sherry plus a splash of cream sherrySame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Aperol	CampariSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Apple balsamic vinegar	Apple cider vinegar plus honey or maple syrupFor every 1 tbsp apple balsamic: 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar + ½ tsp honey or maple syrupTweak it	For every 1 tbsp apple balsamic: 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar + ½ tsp honey or maple syrup	Tweak it

Baking

All 93 cards

Baking
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
00 flour	All-purpose flourSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Almond bark	Candy melts, candy wafers or confectionery coatingSame amount by weightWorks	Same amount by weight	Works
Almond paste	MarzipanSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Amaretti	Almond macaroons or any crisp almond cookieSame amount by weightWorks	Same amount by weight	Works
Baker's ammonia	Baking powderSame amount by volumeTweak it	Same amount by volume	Tweak it
Baking chocolate	Cocoa powder plus fat (for unsweetened baking chocolate)3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder + 1 tbsp butter, neutral oil or shortening per 1 oz baking chocolateTweak it	3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder + 1 tbsp butter, neutral oil or shortening per 1 oz baking chocolate	Tweak it
Baking powder	Baking soda + vinegar or lemon juice¼ tsp baking soda + 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice per 1 tsp baking powderTweak it	¼ tsp baking soda + 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice per 1 tsp baking powder	Tweak it
Baking soda	Baking powder3 tsp per 1 tspTweak it	3 tsp per 1 tsp	Tweak it
Bamboo fiber	Oat fiberSame amount by weightWorks	Same amount by weight	Works

Baking ingredients

All 2 cards

Baking ingredients
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Custard powder	Cornstarch + vanilla + sugarSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Dough conditioner	Vital wheat glutenSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works

Beverages

All 69 cards

Beverages
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Amazake	Rice milk plus honey or maple syrup1 cup rice milk plus 2 tablespoons honey for 1 cup amazakeTweak it	1 cup rice milk plus 2 tablespoons honey for 1 cup amazake	Tweak it
Apple cider	Apple juiceSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Apple juice	Pear juiceSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Ayran	Plain yogurt whisked with cold water and saltSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Black tea	Another black tea varietySame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Bloody Mary mix	Tomato juice plus the seasoning formulaPer 4 oz tomato juice: ½ tsp Worcestershire, ½ tsp lemon juice, ¼ tsp prepared horseradish, 3 to 4 dashes hot sauce, pinch celery salt, black pepperWorks	Per 4 oz tomato juice: ½ tsp Worcestershire, ½ tsp lemon juice, ¼ tsp prepared horseradish, 3 to 4 dashes hot sauce, pinch celery salt, black pepper	Works
Butterfly pea flower	Blue spirulina powder1/8 to ¼ teaspoon per cup of liquidTweak it	1/8 to ¼ teaspoon per cup of liquid	Tweak it
Cascara	Rosehip teaSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Chai concentrate	Homemade chai concentrate from whole spicesSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works

Breadcrumbs

All 4 cards

Breadcrumbs
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Knoedel bread	Home-dried crusty white bread cubesSame amount by weightWorks	Same amount by weight	Works
Matzo meal	BreadcrumbsSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Panko bread crumbs	Regular breadcrumbsSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Zwieback	Plain rusks, melba toast or Dutch beschuitSame amount by weightWorks	Same amount by weight	Works

Cheese

All 77 cards

Cheese
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Akkawi cheese	Low-moisture mozzarella (block, not fresh)Same amount by weightTweak it	Same amount by weight	Tweak it
Anthotyro	Whole-milk ricotta, drainedSame amount by weight after drainingTweak it	Same amount by weight after draining	Tweak it
Areesh cheese	Cottage cheese, drained and mashedSame amount by weightWorks	Same amount by weight	Works
Asiago cheese	Parmesan cheeseSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Ayib	Dry-curd cottage cheese or pot cheeseSame amount by volumeWorks	Same amount by volume	Works
Beaufort cheese	ComteSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Bergkaese	GruyereSame amount by weightWorks	Same amount by weight	Works
Beyaz peynir	Bulgarian fetaSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Bread cheese	HalloumiSame amount by weightTweak it	Same amount by weight	Tweak it

Condiments

All 14 cards

Condiments
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Aji amarillo paste	Yellow bell pepper + habanero3:1 yellow bell pepper to habaneroWorks	3:1 yellow bell pepper to habanero	Works
Anchovy paste	Anchovy fillets2-3 fillets per 1 tsp pasteTweak it	2-3 fillets per 1 tsp paste	Tweak it
Balsamic glaze	Balsamic vinegar reduced on the stove1 cup vinegar yields about 1/3 cup glazeWorks	1 cup vinegar yields about 1/3 cup glaze	Works
Gochujang	Sriracha + miso paste½ tbsp sriracha + ½ tbsp miso paste per 1 tbsp gochujang	½ tbsp sriracha + ½ tbsp miso paste per 1 tbsp gochujang
Lime pickle	Mango pickle (aam ka achar)Same amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Malt vinegar	White vinegarSame amount	Same amount
Mango pickle	Lime pickle (nimbu ka achar)Same amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Non-brewed condiment	Malt vinegarSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Relish	White vinegarSame amount	Same amount

Dairy

All 133 cards

Dairy
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Acidophilus milk	Plain milk (whole, reduced-fat or skim)Same amount by volumeWorks	Same amount by volume	Works
All-purpose cream	Media crema or table cream (Nestle Media Crema, Elle et Vire, President table cream)Same amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Amasi	Plain full-fat yogurt, thinned with milk¾ cup yogurt plus ¼ cup milk per cup of amasiWorks	¾ cup yogurt plus ¼ cup milk per cup of amasi	Works
American cheese	Cheddar cheeseSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Ashta	Homemade cornstarch ashtaMakes about 3 cupsWorks	Makes about 3 cups	Works
Blue cheese	GorgonzolaSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Boursin cheese	Homemade herbed cream cheeseSame amount	Same amount
Brick	MuensterSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Brie cheese	CamembertSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works

Dairy alternatives

All 32 cards

Dairy alternatives
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Banana milk	Any milk plus mashed ripe banana1 cup any milk plus ½ mashed ripe banana, blendedWorks	1 cup any milk plus ½ mashed ripe banana, blended	Works
Cashew cheese	Firm tofu with lemon and nutritional yeast1 block (about 14 oz) firm tofu plus 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast, 1 tablespoon olive oil and ¾ teaspoon saltYou'll taste it	1 block (about 14 oz) firm tofu plus 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast, 1 tablespoon olive oil and ¾ teaspoon salt	You'll taste it
Cashew milk	Oat milkSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Coconut cream	Heavy creamSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Coconut kefir	Unsweetened coconut yogurt thinned with water or coconut water3 tbsp coconut yogurt plus 1 tbsp water per ¼ cup coconut kefir, plus a squeeze of lemonWorks	3 tbsp coconut yogurt plus 1 tbsp water per ¼ cup coconut kefir, plus a squeeze of lemon	Works
Coconut milk powder	Canned coconut milk1 cup canned coconut milk replaces ¼ cup powder + 1 cup waterWorks	1 cup canned coconut milk replaces ¼ cup powder + 1 cup water	Works
Coconut milk	Almond milkSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Coconut yogurt	Cashew or almond yogurtSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Cool Whip	Homemade whipped creamSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works

Eggs

All 8 cards

Eggs
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Duck eggs	Large chicken eggs, by weight4 large chicken eggs per 3 duck eggsWorks	4 large chicken eggs per 3 duck eggs	Works
Egg replacer powder	Flax egg1 tbsp ground flaxseed plus 3 tbsp water per egg, rested 5 minutesYou'll taste it	1 tbsp ground flaxseed plus 3 tbsp water per egg, rested 5 minutes	You'll taste it
Egg wash	Heavy cream or half-and-halfBrush on neatTweak it	Brush on neat	Tweak it
Egg white	Aquafaba3 tbsp per egg whiteTweak it	3 tbsp per egg white	Tweak it
Egg yolk	Aquafaba + neutral oil1 tbsp aquafaba + 1 tsp oil per yolkTweak it	1 tbsp aquafaba + 1 tsp oil per yolk	Tweak it
Eggs	Flax egg1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water per eggTweak it	1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water per egg	Tweak it
Quail eggs	Chicken eggs, hard-boiled and quartered1 chicken egg per 4-5 quail eggsTweak it	1 chicken egg per 4-5 quail eggs	Tweak it
Salted duck egg	Home-cured egg yolks (the quick salt-and-sugar method)1 cured yolk per salted duck egg yolk; needs 3 to 4 days in the refrigeratorWorks	1 cured yolk per salted duck egg yolk; needs 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator	Works

Fermented

All 23 cards

Fermented
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Curtido	Sauerkraut with Mexican oregano and shredded carrot1 cup drained sauerkraut plus ½ tsp Mexican oregano and 2 Tbsp grated carrot per cup of curtidoWorks	1 cup drained sauerkraut plus ½ tsp Mexican oregano and 2 Tbsp grated carrot per cup of curtido	Works
Escabeche	Canned or jarred pickled jalapenosSame amount, drainedWorks	Same amount, drained	Works
Green olives	Capers or caper berries2 tsp drained capers per ¼ cup chopped green olivesYou'll taste it	2 tsp drained capers per ¼ cup chopped green olives	You'll taste it
Kimchi	Sauerkraut plus gochugaru and garlic1 cup drained sauerkraut plus 1 to 2 teaspoons gochugaru plus 1 small grated garlic clove per 1 cup kimchiYou'll taste it	1 cup drained sauerkraut plus 1 to 2 teaspoons gochugaru plus 1 small grated garlic clove per 1 cup kimchi	You'll taste it
Kkakdugi (cubed radish kimchi)	Napa cabbage kimchi plus raw diced daikon3 parts chopped napa kimchi to 1 part raw diced radish, by volumeWorks	3 parts chopped napa kimchi to 1 part raw diced radish, by volume	Works
Kombucha	Diluted apple cider vinegarSame amountYou'll taste it	Same amount	You'll taste it
Pickled garlic	Roasted garlic cloves with a splash of vinegarSame amount by cloveYou'll taste it	Same amount by clove	You'll taste it
Pickled ginger	Homemade quick pickled gingerOne 3-inch piece fresh ginger plus ½ cup rice vinegar plus 3 tablespoons sugar plus ½ teaspoon salt makes about ½ cupWorks	One 3-inch piece fresh ginger plus ½ cup rice vinegar plus 3 tablespoons sugar plus ½ teaspoon salt makes about ½ cup	Works
Pickled jalapenos	Pickled banana peppers or pepperonciniSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works

Flavorings

All 37 cards

Flavorings
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Almond extract	Vanilla extractSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Anise extract	Anise seed, crushed and steeped1 to 2 tsp crushed anise seed per 1 tsp extractTweak it	1 to 2 tsp crushed anise seed per 1 tsp extract	Tweak it
Banana extract	Very ripe mashed banana2 to 3 tbsp mashed banana per 1 tsp extract, minus the same volume of liquidYou'll taste it	2 to 3 tbsp mashed banana per 1 tsp extract, minus the same volume of liquid	You'll taste it
Bitter almond extract	Standard almond extract2 to 3 tsp per 1 tsp bitter almond extractWorks	2 to 3 tsp per 1 tsp bitter almond extract	Works
Black walnut extract	Black walnuts, toasted and finely ground1/3 cup finely chopped or ground black walnuts per 1 tsp extractTweak it	1/3 cup finely chopped or ground black walnuts per 1 tsp extract	Tweak it
Brandy extract	Actual brandy, cognac, armagnac or dark rum1 tbsp per 1 tsp extract, minus 1 tbsp of the recipe's liquidWorks	1 tbsp per 1 tsp extract, minus 1 tbsp of the recipe's liquid	Works
Butter extract	Vanilla extractSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Butterscotch extract	Dark brown sugar plus browned butter plus vanilla and saltPer 1 tsp extract: swap 2 tbsp of the recipe's sugar for dark brown sugar, brown 2 tbsp of the recipe's butter, add ½ tsp extra vanilla and a pinch of flaky saltWorks	Per 1 tsp extract: swap 2 tbsp of the recipe's sugar for dark brown sugar, brown 2 tbsp of the recipe's butter, add ½ tsp extra vanilla and a pinch of flaky salt	Works
Caramel extract	Caramel sauce or dulce de leche1 to 2 tbsp per 1 tsp extract, minus the same volume of liquid and 1 tbsp of the recipe's sugarTweak it	1 to 2 tbsp per 1 tsp extract, minus the same volume of liquid and 1 tbsp of the recipe's sugar	Tweak it

Flour

All 8 cards

Flour
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Almond meal	Almond flourSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Cassava flour	Tapioca flourSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Chickpea flour	Besan flourSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Macadamia flour	Almond flourSame amount by weightTweak it	Same amount by weight	Tweak it
Peanut flour	Powdered peanut butterSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Pecan flour	Walnut flourSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Sesame flour	Sunflower seed flourSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Sunflower seed flour	Pumpkin seed flourSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it

Fruits

All 109 cards

Fruits
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Acai	Frozen wild blueberries plus avocado¾ cup frozen wild blueberries plus 2 tablespoons avocado per 100 g acai packetTweak it	¾ cup frozen wild blueberries plus 2 tablespoons avocado per 100 g acai packet	Tweak it
Amarena cherries	Jarred sour or morello cherries in syrupSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Apple	PearSame amountYou'll taste it	Same amount	You'll taste it
Apricot	PeachesSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Asam gelugur	Tamarind paste or concentrate1 tsp per slice, up to 1½ tsp for milder brandsTweak it	1 tsp per slice, up to 1½ tsp for milder brands	Tweak it
Asian pear	Bartlett pearSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Avocado	HummusSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Banana	ApplesauceSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Baobab powder	Amchur (dried green mango powder)Same amountWorks	Same amount	Works

Grains & starches

All 170 cards

Grains & starches
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
All purpose flour	Bread flourSame amount	Same amount
Almond flour	Coconut flour¼ cup coconut flour + 4 eggs per 1 cup almond flour	¼ cup coconut flour + 4 eggs per 1 cup almond flour
Amaranth flour	Sorghum flourSame amount by weightTweak it	Same amount by weight	Tweak it
Amaranth	TeffSame amount, dryWorks	Same amount, dry	Works
Ambasha	Homemade ambasha4 cups bread flour, 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast, 1/3 cup sugar, 1 ½ tsp ground cardamom, 1 tsp salt, ¼ cup oil, about 1 1/3 cups warm waterWorks	4 cups bread flour, 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast, 1/3 cup sugar, 1 ½ tsp ground cardamom, 1 tsp salt, ¼ cup oil, about 1 1/3 cups warm water	Works
Arborio rice	Carnaroli riceSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Arborio	Carnaroli riceSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Arrowroot flour	CornstarchSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Arrowroot	CornstarchSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works

Herbs

All 8 cards

Herbs
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Chervil	ParsleySame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Dill weed	Fennel frondsSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Epazote	Mexican oreganoSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Fines herbes	Parsley, chives and tarragon (chervil omitted)Same amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Herbes de Provence	Homemade Herbes de ProvenceSame amount	Same amount
Lemon basil	Sweet basil + lemon zestSame amount by volume of leavesWorks	Same amount by volume of leaves	Works
Lovage	Celery leaves3 parts celery leaves to 1 part lovageWorks	3 parts celery leaves to 1 part lovage	Works
Sorrel	Baby spinach plus lemon juiceEqual weight spinach, plus 1 tbsp lemon juice per 4 oz (115 g)Tweak it	Equal weight spinach, plus 1 tbsp lemon juice per 4 oz (115 g)	Tweak it

Legumes

All 40 cards

Legumes
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Adzuki beans	Small red beans (red chori) or red kidney beansSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Anasazi beans	Pinto beansSame amount by dry weight or drained volumeTweak it	Same amount by dry weight or drained volume	Tweak it
Baked beans	Ten-minute homemade versionReplaces one 15 oz canWorks	Replaces one 15 oz can	Works
Black-eyed peas	CowpeasSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Black lentils	French green lentils (lentilles du Puy)Same amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Brown lentils	Green or continental lentilsSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Butter beans	Lima beansSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Cannellini bean	Great Northern beansSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Chana dal	Yellow split peasSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it

Liquids

All 5 cards

Liquids
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Broth	StockSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Fish broth	Vegetable brothSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Olive brine	Caper brineSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Pasta water	Chicken brothSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Pickle juice	Sauerkraut juice or cabbage brineSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works

Liquor

All 61 cards

Liquor
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Absinthe	Pastis (Pernod or Ricard)Same amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Advocaat	Irish cream (Baileys or similar)Same amountYou'll taste it	Same amount	You'll taste it
Ancho Reyes	Mezcal or tequila plus ancho chile powder and syrupPer ½ oz Ancho Reyes: ½ oz mezcal or tequila, a scant 1/8 tsp pure ancho chile powder, ¼ tsp agave or simple syrupTweak it	Per ½ oz Ancho Reyes: ½ oz mezcal or tequila, a scant 1/8 tsp pure ancho chile powder, ¼ tsp agave or simple syrup	Tweak it
Applejack	CalvadosSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Apricot brandy	Apricot preserves thinned with brandy2 tbsp sieved warm preserves plus 1 tbsp brandy replaces 3 tbsp apricot brandyTweak it	2 tbsp sieved warm preserves plus 1 tbsp brandy replaces 3 tbsp apricot brandy	Tweak it
Aquavit	Vodka with caraway seedsSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Arak	RakiSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Banana liqueur	Banana extract with dark rum or vodka1/8 to ¼ tsp extract plus 2 tbsp rum plus 1 tsp sugar replaces 2 tbsp banana liqueurTweak it	1/8 to ¼ tsp extract plus 2 tbsp rum plus 1 tsp sugar replaces 2 tbsp banana liqueur	Tweak it
Becherovka	Averna or another dark amaro with a pinch of cinnamonSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it

Meat & protein

All 199 cards

Meat & protein
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Alheira	Garlicky poultry sausage plus soaked bread (build-your-own)Same amount by weightWorks	Same amount by weight	Works
Alligator	Chicken breast or tenders, cubedSame amount by weightTweak it	Same amount by weight	Tweak it
Andouille sausage	KielbasaSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Baby back ribs	Pork spare ribs or St. Louis style ribsSame amount by weightWorks	Same amount by weight	Works
Bacon bits	Chopped crisp-cooked bacon3 to 4 strips of raw bacon per ¼ cup of bits; 1:1 by volume once choppedWorks	3 to 4 strips of raw bacon per ¼ cup of bits; 1:1 by volume once chopped	Works
Bacon	Turkey baconSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Bavette steak	Flank steakSame amount by weightWorks	Same amount by weight	Works
Beef back ribs	Beef plate short ribs (the real dinosaur ribs)Same amount by rackWorks	Same amount by rack	Works
Beef cheeks	Short ribsSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works

Nuts & seeds

All 43 cards

Nuts & seeds
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Acorn flour	Chestnut flourSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Almond butter	Peanut butterSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Almonds	WalnutsSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Amlou	Almond butter, honey and hazelnut or walnut oil1 cup almond butter + 3 tbsp honey + 1 tbsp hazelnut or walnut oil + pinch of saltWorks	1 cup almond butter + 3 tbsp honey + 1 tbsp hazelnut or walnut oil + pinch of salt	Works
Black sesame paste	Homemade black sesame pasteSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Black sesame seeds	Toasted white sesame seedsSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Brazil nuts	Macadamia nutsSame amount by volume, chopped coarselyTweak it	Same amount by volume, chopped coarsely	Tweak it
Candlenut	Macadamia nutsSame amount by count or weightWorks	Same amount by count or weight	Works
Cashew butter	Almond butterSame amount	Same amount

Oils & fats

All 70 cards

Oils & fats
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Almond oil	Walnut oilSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Argan oil	Toasted sesame oil, diluted2 tsp sesame oil made up to 1 tbsp with neutral oilWorks	2 tsp sesame oil made up to 1 tbsp with neutral oil	Works
Avocado oil	Olive oilSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Bacon drippings	LardSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Black seed oil	Whole nigella seeds warmed in a mild oilSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Browned butter	Plain melted butterSame amount by volumeYou'll taste it	Same amount by volume	You'll taste it
Butter for oil	GheeSame amount	Same amount
Canola oil	Vegetable oilSame amount	Same amount
Caul fat	Thin sheets of bacon or pancettaEnough slices to overlap by about a third and fully cover the parcelYou'll taste it	Enough slices to overlap by about a third and fully cover the parcel	You'll taste it

Pasta & noodles

All 93 cards

Pasta & noodles
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Acini de pepe	OrzoSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Agnolotti	Meat or cheese ravioliSame amount by countWorks	Same amount by count	Works
Angel hair pasta	Thin spaghetti or spaghettiniSame amount by weightWorks	Same amount by weight	Works
Banh canh noodles	Udon noodles (frozen or vacuum packed)Same amount by weightTweak it	Same amount by weight	Tweak it
Biang biang noodles	Wide pappardelle, boiled soft4 oz / 115 g dry per person, boiled 1 minute past al denteTweak it	4 oz / 115 g dry per person, boiled 1 minute past al dente	Tweak it
Bigoli	Whole-wheat spaghetti (thick, bronze cut if possible)Same amount by weightTweak it	Same amount by weight	Tweak it
Bucatini	Spaghettoni or thick spaghettiSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Campanelle	RadiatoreSame amount by weightWorks	Same amount by weight	Works
Cannelloni	Lasagne sheets, rolled1 sheet per cannelloni tubeTweak it	1 sheet per cannelloni tube	Tweak it

Peppers

All 45 cards

Peppers
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Aji charapita	Habanero, finely chopped1 habanero per 15-20 charapitasTweak it	1 habanero per 15-20 charapitas	Tweak it
Aji dulce	Cubanelle pepper + a sliver of habanero or Scotch bonnet1 cubanelle + ¼ deseeded habanero per 4 aji dulceWorks	1 cubanelle + ¼ deseeded habanero per 4 aji dulce	Works
Aji limo	Habanero (orange or red)1 habanero per 1 aji limo, but start with halfWorks	1 habanero per 1 aji limo, but start with half	Works
Aji mirasol	Aji amarillo paste (jarred)About 1 generous tbsp paste per 1 dried mirasol podTweak it	About 1 generous tbsp paste per 1 dried mirasol pod	Tweak it
Aji panca	Dried ancho chileSame amount by number of chilesWorks	Same amount by number of chiles	Works
Aleppo pepper paste	Turkish sweet red pepper paste (biber salcasi, tatli)Same amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Anaheim pepper	Poblano peppersSame amount	Same amount
Ancho chiles	Poblano peppersSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Ancho peppers	Chipotle peppersSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it

Preserves

All 35 cards

Preserves
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Apple butter	ApplesauceSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Apple jelly	Apple butterSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Apple pie filling	Homemade apple pie filling from fresh apples6 cups sliced apples, about 6 medium, replaces one 21oz canWorks	6 cups sliced apples, about 6 medium, replaces one 21oz can	Works
Apricot preserves	Peach preservesSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Atchara	Quick chayote or jicama pickle3 cups shredded vegetable makes about 2 cups atcharaWorks	3 cups shredded vegetable makes about 2 cups atchara	Works
Blackcurrant jam	Red currant jellySame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Blueberry jam	Quick blueberry jam from fresh or frozen berries300g blueberries plus 120g sugar and 1 tbsp lemon juice makes about 1 cupWorks	300g blueberries plus 120g sugar and 1 tbsp lemon juice makes about 1 cup	Works
Candied lemon peel	Candied orange peel plus a little fresh lemon zestSame amount by weightTweak it	Same amount by weight	Tweak it
Cherry pie filling	Homemade filling from frozen or jarred cherries1 lb (450 g) cherries, ½ to 2/3 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, makes about 2 ½ cups, or one 21 oz canWorks	1 lb (450 g) cherries, ½ to 2/3 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, makes about 2 ½ cups, or one 21 oz can	Works

Sauces & condiments

All 229 cards

Sauces & condiments
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Achiote paste	Annatto seedsSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Adjika	Harissa plus extra garlicSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Adobo sauce	Soy sauce + vinegar + garlic + bay leaves¼ cup soy sauce + ¼ cup vinegar + 4 cloves garlic + 2 bay leaves	¼ cup soy sauce + ¼ cup vinegar + 4 cloves garlic + 2 bay leaves
Agrodolce	Make it yourself: vinegar reduced with sugar¼ cup red wine vinegar + 2 tbsp sugar, simmered to about 3 tbspWorks	¼ cup red wine vinegar + 2 tbsp sugar, simmered to about 3 tbsp	Works
Aioli	Garlic mayonnaise (mayo, garlic, lemon)½ cup mayonnaise, 1 grated garlic clove, 1 tsp lemon juice and a pinch of salt makes ½ cupWorks	½ cup mayonnaise, 1 grated garlic clove, 1 tsp lemon juice and a pinch of salt makes ½ cup	Works
Aji verde	Make it in a blenderSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Ajvar	Homemade roasted pepper and eggplant spreadSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Alabama white sauce	The real thing, whisked from scratchMakes about 1 ½ cups: 1 cup mayonnaise, ½ cup cider vinegar, 1 tbsp prepared horseradish, 2 tsp coarsely ground black pepper, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp sugar, ½ tsp cayenne, optional 1 tsp yellow mustardWorks	Makes about 1 ½ cups: 1 cup mayonnaise, ½ cup cider vinegar, 1 tbsp prepared horseradish, 2 tsp coarsely ground black pepper, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp sugar, ½ tsp cayenne, optional 1 tsp yellow mustard	Works
Amba sauce	Mango chutney with vinegar and fenugreekSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it

Seafood

All 120 cards

Seafood
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Abalone	King oyster mushroom stems, scored and braisedSame amount by weightTweak it	Same amount by weight	Tweak it
Aligue (crab fat)	Lobster tomalley plus butter2 tablespoons tomalley plus 2 tablespoons butter per ¼ cup aligueWorks	2 tablespoons tomalley plus 2 tablespoons butter per ¼ cup aligue	Works
Amberjack	Mahi-mahiSame amount by weightWorks	Same amount by weight	Works
Arctic char	Steelhead troutSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Bangus (milkfish)	Rainbow troutOne whole trout, about 1 pound per small whole bangusWorks	One whole trout, about 1 pound per small whole bangus	Works
Barramundi	Sea bassSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Basa	Swai or pangasiusSame amount by weightWorks	Same amount by weight	Works
Belacan	Indonesian terasiSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Black cod	Chilean sea bass (Patagonian toothfish)Same amount by weightTweak it	Same amount by weight	Tweak it

Seasonings

All 84 cards

Seasonings
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Accent seasoning	Plain MSG (aji-no-Moto, umami seasoning)Same amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Al pastor seasoning	Achiote paste plus chilli powder and Mexican oreganoPer 2 tbsp al pastor seasoning: 1 tbsp achiote paste + 1 tsp ancho or guajillo powder + 1 tsp Mexican oregano + ½ tsp ground cumin + a pinch of ground cloves; mix with 2 tbsp pineapple juice and 1 tbsp white vinegarWorks	Per 2 tbsp al pastor seasoning: 1 tbsp achiote paste + 1 tsp ancho or guajillo powder + 1 tsp Mexican oregano + ½ tsp ground cumin + a pinch of ground cloves; mix with 2 tbsp pineapple juice and 1 tbsp white vinegar	Works
BBQ dry rub	Homemade all-purpose BBQ rub2 tbsp brown sugar + 1 tbsp coarse salt + 1 tbsp paprika + 2 tsp black pepper + 1 tsp garlic powder + 1 tsp onion powder + 1 tsp mustard powder + ½ tsp cayenne = about ½ cupWorks	2 tbsp brown sugar + 1 tbsp coarse salt + 1 tbsp paprika + 2 tsp black pepper + 1 tsp garlic powder + 1 tsp onion powder + 1 tsp mustard powder + ½ tsp cayenne = about ½ cup	Works
Beef base	Beef bouillon cubesSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Beef bouillon base	Beef stockSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Beef bouillon concentrate	Beef stockSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Beef bouillon cube	Beef stockSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Beef bouillon granules	Beef stockSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Beef bouillon liquid	Beef stockSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it

Seeds

All 3 cards

Seeds
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Basil seeds	Chia seedsSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Flaxseed	Chia seedsSame amount	Same amount
Sesame seeds	Poppy seedsSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it

Soups

All 19 cards

Soups
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Avgolemono	Cornstarch slurry plus lemon juice and butter1 tablespoon cornstarch in 2 tablespoons cold water, plus 1½ tablespoons lemon juice and 1 tablespoon butter per 2 cups brothYou'll taste it	1 tablespoon cornstarch in 2 tablespoons cold water, plus 1½ tablespoons lemon juice and 1 tablespoon butter per 2 cups broth	You'll taste it
Beef consommé	Beef brothSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Cheddar cheese soup	Homemade cheese sauceSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Chicken consommé	Chicken stock, reduced1 ½ cups chicken stock, simmered down to 1 cup per 1 cup consomméWorks	1 ½ cups chicken stock, simmered down to 1 cup per 1 cup consommé	Works
Court bouillon	Homemade court bouillonSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Cream of chicken	Cream of mushroomSame amount	Same amount
Cream of mushroom soup	Mushroom sauceSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Cream of onion	Cream of mushroomSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Cream soup	Homemade cream sauceSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works

Spices & herbs

All 209 cards

Spices & herbs
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Adobo seasoning	Garlic powderSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Advieh	Homemade advieh from cupboard spicesSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Aji molido	Sweet paprikaSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Ajwain	Dried thyme1 to 1 ¼ teaspoons per 1 teaspoon ajwainTweak it	1 to 1 ¼ teaspoons per 1 teaspoon ajwain	Tweak it
Aleppo pepper	Crushed red pepperSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Alicha spice blend	Homemade alicha blend2 tbsp turmeric + 1 tbsp ground ginger + 1 tbsp granulated garlic + 2 tsp ground cardamom + 1 tsp ground coriander + ½ tsp ground fenugreek + ½ tsp black pepperWorks	2 tbsp turmeric + 1 tbsp ground ginger + 1 tbsp granulated garlic + 2 tsp ground cardamom + 1 tsp ground coriander + ½ tsp ground fenugreek + ½ tsp black pepper	Works
Allspice	Cinnamon + nutmeg + cloves½ tsp cinnamon + ¼ tsp nutmeg + 1/8 tsp cloves per 1 tsp allspiceTweak it	½ tsp cinnamon + ¼ tsp nutmeg + 1/8 tsp cloves per 1 tsp allspice	Tweak it
Amchar masala	Homemade amchar masala blendSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Amchur	Lemon juiceSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works

Sweeteners

All 107 cards

Sweeteners
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Agave	HoneySame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Agave syrup	HoneySame amount	Same amount
Algarrobina	Carob molasses (dibs el kharoub)Same amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Applesauce	Mashed bananasSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Blackstrap molasses	Regular molassesSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Bochasweet	SteviaSame amount	Same amount
Brown rice syrup	HoneySame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Brown sugar	Granulated sugar + molasses1 cup + 1 tbsp per cupWorks	1 cup + 1 tbsp per cup	Works
Brown sugar syrup	Simple syrup plus molassesSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works

Thickeners

All 12 cards

Thickeners
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Achi (soup thickener)	Ofor flourSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Agar agar	GelatinSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Citrus fiber	Xanthan gum¼ tsp xanthan gum per 1 tbsp citrus fiberTweak it	¼ tsp xanthan gum per 1 tbsp citrus fiber	Tweak it
Clear Jel	Cornstarch (non-canned fillings only)Same amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Flour roux	CornstarchSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Gelatin	Agar agar powder2 tsp per 7 g envelopeTweak it	2 tsp per 7 g envelope	Tweak it
Guar gum	Xanthan gumSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Konjac flour	Xanthan gumSame amount by weightTweak it	Same amount by weight	Tweak it
Locust bean gum	Guar gumSame amount by weightWorks	Same amount by weight	Works

Vegetables & aromatics

All 227 cards

Vegetables & aromatics
Out of	Use	Amount	Verdict
Ackee	Soft scrambled eggs6 to 8 large eggs per one 19 oz (540 g) can of ackeeWorks	6 to 8 large eggs per one 19 oz (540 g) can of ackee	Works
Afang leaves (okazi)	Frozen shredded afang (okazi, ukazi, eru)Same amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Amaranth greens	Mature bunched spinachSame amount by weightTweak it	Same amount by weight	Tweak it
Arracacha	Parsnip plus potatoSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Artichoke hearts	Hearts of palmSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Arugula	WatercressSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works
Asparagus	Green beansSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Baby bella mushrooms	White button mushroomsSame amountTweak it	Same amount	Tweak it
Baby gem lettuce	Little gem lettuceSame amountWorks	Same amount	Works

Tips

10 tips

Baking substitutions5 tips

Oil stands in for butter only where the butter was going to be melted; a creamed batter needs a solid fat to hold the air, so swap solid for solid there.
Baking soda is about three times as strong as baking powder and needs an acid in the batter to work; baking powder brings its own acid, so the two are not an even swap.
A liquid sweetener for sugar (honey, maple syrup) adds liquid and browns faster: cut the other liquid by about ¼ cup per cup and drop the oven 25°F (15°C).
Weigh flour where you can: a cup of all-purpose flour is about 120 g, and a cup of another flour rarely weighs the same, so a cup-for-cup flour swap changes the dough.
Egg swaps cover binding or moisture, not lift: where the recipe whips eggs for air (sponge, soufflé), expect a denser result whatever you use.

Cooking substitutions5 tips

Dried herbs are about three times as strong as fresh: 1 tsp dried per 1 tbsp fresh, added early, where fresh herbs go in at the end.
An acid swaps for an acid: lemon juice for vinegar, wine for stock plus a splash of vinegar. Leave the acid out and the dish reads flat.
Soy sauce, miso, stock cubes and canned broth carry their own salt: when one stands in for something unsalted, taste before adding the salt the recipe calls for.
Dried garlic and onion are concentrated: about ⅛ tsp garlic powder per clove, 1 tbsp dried minced onion per ¼ cup fresh.
A swap that browns differently (honey for sugar, oil for butter, plant milk for dairy in a sauce) changes the color and the timing more than the flavor; watch the pan, not the clock.

Also on file

One ingredient at a time

Every ingredient has its own card: the swap, the amount, and every option stamped.

All ingredients More guides