🌿 Spices & Herbs

Garlic Salt Substitute: for Seasoning and Cooking Guide

Find the best garlic salt substitutes for cooking and seasoning. Learn how to make your own and discover alternatives that provide similar flavor.

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Quick Answer

The best garlic salt substitutes are garlic powder + salt (1:1 ratio), fresh garlic + salt, onion salt, or seasoned salt. For 1 tsp garlic salt, use 1/2 tsp garlic powder + 1/2 tsp salt.

Best Substitutes

Garlic Powder + Salt

1 tsp garlic salt = 1/2 tsp garlic powder + 1/2 tsp salt

This combination provides the same garlic flavor and saltiness as garlic salt. Mix the ingredients together before using to ensure even distribution throughout your dish.

Best for:

general cookingseasoningmarinadessaucesbaking

Mix together before using for even distribution

Fresh Garlic + Salt

1 tsp garlic salt = 1 clove minced garlic + 1/2 tsp salt

Fresh garlic provides more intense flavor than garlic powder. Mince the garlic finely and mix with salt before adding to your dish for the best results.

Best for:

cookingmarinadessauceswhen you want fresh garlic flavor

Use fresh garlic for more intense flavor

Onion Salt

1:1

Onion salt provides similar saltiness and seasoning properties as garlic salt, but with an onion flavor profile. It works well in most recipes that call for garlic salt.

Best for:

cookingseasoningmarinadessauceswhen you want onion flavor

Similar seasoning with different flavor profile

Seasoned Salt

1:1

Seasoned salt typically contains garlic powder along with other seasonings like onion powder, paprika, and herbs. It provides similar flavor complexity to garlic salt.

Best for:

general cookingseasoningmarinadeswhen you want complex flavor

Contains multiple seasonings including garlic

Celery Salt

1:1

Celery salt provides similar saltiness to garlic salt but with a celery flavor profile. It works well in recipes where celery flavor complements the dish.

Best for:

cookingseasoningmarinadeswhen you want celery flavor

Different flavor but similar saltiness

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Mix garlic powder and salt together before adding to dishes for even distribution
  • 💡Use fresh garlic for more intense flavor, especially in cooked dishes
  • 💡Toast garlic powder briefly in a dry pan to enhance its flavor before using
  • 💡Store homemade garlic salt in an airtight container for up to 6 months
  • 💡Adjust the ratio of garlic to salt based on your taste preferences
  • 💡Use garlic salt substitutes in marinades, rubs, and seasoning blends
  • 💡Consider the cooking method when choosing between fresh and powdered garlic

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between garlic salt and garlic powder?

Garlic salt is a mixture of garlic powder and salt, while garlic powder is pure ground garlic. Garlic salt provides both garlic flavor and saltiness, while garlic powder only provides garlic flavor.

Can I make my own garlic salt?

Yes! Mix 3 parts salt with 1 part garlic powder. Store in an airtight container and use within 6 months. You can also add other seasonings like onion powder or herbs for more complexity.

Is fresh garlic better than garlic powder?

Fresh garlic provides more intense flavor and aroma than garlic powder. However, garlic powder is more convenient and has a longer shelf life. Choose based on your recipe and preferences.

Can I substitute garlic salt in baking?

Yes, garlic salt substitutes work well in baking. Use garlic powder + salt for the most similar result. Fresh garlic can also work but may need to be finely minced or pureed.

How long does homemade garlic salt last?

Homemade garlic salt lasts 6 months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. The garlic powder may lose potency over time, so you may need to adjust the ratio.

Summary

Find the best garlic salt substitutes for cooking and seasoning. Learn how to make your own and discover alternatives that provide similar flavor.