Out of Vegetable broth, one case
Vegetable broth substitute for soup
6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Chicken broth
Same amount as the vegetable broth
The best vegetable broth substitute for soup is chicken broth (1:1 ratio) for non-vegetarian recipes, or water with seasonings for vegetarian options. Bouillon cubes and mushroom broth also work excellently.
- Best for —
- Vegetable soups
One casethe full vegetable broth card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of vegetable broth |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chicken brothVegetable soups | Same amount |
| 2 | Water + seasoningsVegetable soups | 1 cup water + ½ tsp salt + herbs per 1 cup vegetable broth |
| 3 | Bouillon cubes/powderQuick soup making | 1 cup water + 1 vegetable bouillon cube per 1 cup vegetable broth |
| 4 | Mushroom brothMushroom soups | Same amount |
| 5 | Beef brothHearty soups | Same amount |
| 6 | Coconut waterAsian soups | Same amount |
Chicken broth
rich, savory · similar texture
Rich, flavorful broth that adds depth to soups
- Best for
- Vegetable soups, Minestrone, Risotto soups, Cream soups
Not suitable for vegetarians/vegans. Adds rich, savory flavor to soups.
Water + seasonings
mild, customizable · similar texture
Simple combination that works well for most soups
- Best for
- Vegetable soups, When you want to control flavor, Emergency substitute, Light soups
Add bay leaves, thyme, garlic, and salt for flavor. Most versatile option.
Bouillon cubes/powder
concentrated, salty
Convenient and flavorful substitute for soup making
- Best for
- Quick soup making, When you need instant flavor, Large batch soups, Emergency cooking
- Texture
- similar when dissolved
Very convenient but may be high in sodium. Check labels for vegetarian options.
Mushroom broth
earthy, umami · similar texture
Earthy, umami-rich broth good for hearty soups
- Best for
- Mushroom soups, Hearty vegetable soups, Risotto soups, When you want earthy flavor
Great for vegetarian/vegan recipes. Adds deep, earthy flavor to soups.
Beef broth
rich, meaty · similar texture
Rich, hearty broth that adds depth to soups
- Best for
- Hearty soups, Stews, When you want rich flavor, Meat-based soups
Not suitable for vegetarians/vegans. Much richer than vegetable broth.
Coconut water
sweet, mild · similar texture
Light, sweet liquid that works for certain soup types
- Best for
- Asian soups, Light vegetable soups, When you want natural sweetness, Thai-inspired soups
Much sweeter than vegetable broth. Best for specific flavor profiles.
How it behaves in this recipe
Soup making relies on vegetable broth for flavor, depth, and as a cooking liquid. The broth provides the base flavor that other ingredients build upon, making it crucial for good soup.
Tips for substituting vegetable broth
10 tips- For vegetable soups, chicken broth adds the most flavor and depth
- For vegetarian soups, use water with seasonings or mushroom broth
- For quick soup making, bouillon cubes are most convenient
- For creamy soups, any broth substitute works well as the base
- For Asian-inspired soups, coconut water can work for light, sweet applications
- For hearty soups, beef broth or mushroom broth add the most depth
- For minestrone, chicken broth or water with Italian seasonings work best
- For risotto soups, use a flavorful broth substitute for best results
- Always taste and adjust seasoning when using different substitutes
- For clear soups, use a light broth substitute to maintain clarity
Notes on vegetable broth
- Use a combination of different broths for complex flavor
- Add miso paste to water for umami flavor
- Use wine or beer as part of the liquid base
- Add soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for depth
Questions
8 questionsWhat's the best substitute for vegetable broth in soup?
Chicken broth is the best substitute for vegetable broth in soup if you're not vegetarian/vegan. Use it in a 1:1 ratio. For vegetarian options, use water with seasonings or mushroom broth.
Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth in soup?
Yes, chicken broth works excellently as a substitute for vegetable broth in soup. It adds rich, savory flavor and works in any soup recipe. Use the same amount as the recipe calls for.
What can I use instead of vegetable broth in soup?
You can use chicken broth, beef broth, water with seasonings, bouillon cubes, or mushroom broth. Choose based on your dietary preferences and the flavor profile you want.
Can I use water instead of vegetable broth in soup?
Yes, water works as a substitute, but you'll need to add seasonings like salt, herbs, and spices to add flavor. It's the most basic substitute but still effective.
How do I make vegetable broth substitute for soup?
Mix 1 cup water with ½ teaspoon salt and herbs like bay leaves, thyme, or garlic. You can also use 1 bouillon cube per cup of water for instant flavor.
Will my soup taste different without vegetable broth?
Chicken broth will provide very similar flavor to vegetable broth in soup. Water with seasonings will be milder but still good. The overall flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I use beef broth instead of vegetable broth in soup?
Yes, beef broth can work as a substitute, but it's much richer and more intense than vegetable broth. It's not suitable for vegetarians/vegans and may overpower delicate flavors.
What's the best vegetarian substitute for vegetable broth in soup?
Mushroom broth or water with seasonings work best for vegetarian soups. You can also use vegetable bouillon cubes or powder for convenience.