When you’re in the kitchen and realize you’re out of garlic powder, what do you do?
Garlic powder is a popular seasoning that is used to add flavor to dishes. It is made from ground, dried garlic and has a strong, pungent flavor.
While garlic powder can be a great way to add flavor to your food, there are times when you might not have any on hand or you may be allergic to garlic.
If this is the case, there are plenty of other spices that can add flavor to your food in a pinch. I’ve put together a list of my favorite garlic powder substitutes so you’ll never have to go without it again.
Table of Contents
12 Best Garlic Powder Substitutes
1. Granulated Garlic
If you’re looking for a garlic powder substitute that will add a similar flavor to your dish, granulated garlic is a good option.
This spice is made from ground, dried garlic cloves and has a similar texture to garlic powder. It has a strong, pungent flavor. Replace 1 tablespoon of garlic powder with 2 teaspoons of granulated garlic.
2. Minced Garlic
Minced garlic is another spice that can be used as a garlic powder substitute. This spice is made from fresh garlic that has been diced or chopped into small pieces. It has a strong, pungent flavor and can be used to add flavor to dishes.
Replace 1 tablespoon of garlic powder with 1/2 teaspoons of minced garlic.
3. Garlic Salt
Garlic salt is a common substitute for garlic powder. It is a blend of salt and garlic, so it will add both flavor and saltiness to your dish. It has a strong, salty flavor with a hint of garlic.
This spice can be used to replace garlic powder in dishes. Use 3-4 tablespoons of garlic salt for every teaspoon of garlic powder. Just be sure to use less salt than you would, otherwise, your dish will be too salty.
4. Garlic Juice
Garlic juice is simply the liquid that is made by squeezing the fresh garlic cloves. It has a strong, pungent flavor and can be used as a garlic powder substitute in dishes.
To use garlic juice as a substitute, mix 1 part garlic juice with 2 parts water. This will help to tone down the garlic flavor. Then, use it in place of garlic powder in your recipe. Or you can replace 1 tablespoon of garlic powder with 1/2 tablespoon of garlic juice to get the desired flavor.
5. Garlic Puree
Garlic puree is made from fresh or roasted garlic that has been blended or mashed into a smooth paste. Garlic puree can be utilized in the same way that garlic powder would be used. It can be added to soup, stews, sauces, and marinades for extra flavor.
If you don’t have any garlic puree on hand, you can make your own by blending or mashing fresh or roasted garlic cloves into a paste. For 1 tablespoon of garlic powder substitute 1/4 tablespoon of garlic puree in most recipes.
6. Fresh Garlic
Fresh garlic is, of course, a great substitute for garlic powder. To use fresh garlic as a garlic powder substitute, simply mince or chop the cloves into small pieces and add them to your dish.
You can also roast the garlic cloves and puree them into a paste to use as a substitute. Use 7-8 cloves of garlic for every teaspoon of garlic powder called for in the recipe.
The flavor will be more pronounced than if you had used garlic powder, but it will still be delicious.
7. Garlic Flakes
Garlic flakes are made from dried, minced garlic that has been flaked. They have a milder flavor than garlic powder and can be used as a substitute in many recipes.
Simply replace 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder with 1 tablespoon of garlic flakes.
8. Onion Powder
Onion powder is not an ideal garlic powder substitute but it can be used when you do not have any other options. Onion powder will add a similar flavor to your dish as garlic powder would, but it is not as strong.
This seasoning is made from dried and ground onions and can be used to add flavor to many dishes.
Onion powder can be used to add flavor to soups, sauces, and stews. You can substitute a cup of garlic powder with 1 tablespoon of onion powder in most recipes.
9. Chives
Chives are a common herb that can be used as a garlic powder substitute. This herb is related to the onion and has a similar flavor. Chives can be used to add flavor to many dishes, such as soups, salads, and sauces.
If you want to use chives as a garlic powder substitute, simply chop the fresh chives and add them to your dish. You can also use dried chives if you don’t have any fresh ones on hand.
10. Cumin Seeds
Cumin seeds have a nutty, earthy flavor and can be used as a garlic powder substitute. This spice is often used in Indian and Middle Eastern dishes. Cumin seeds can be used to add flavor to many dishes, such as curries, stews, and soups.
You can substitute 1 tablespoon of garlic powder with 1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder in most recipes. Combine it with onion for more flavor.
11. Onions/Shallots
Onions and shallots have a strong flavor, but can be used as a garlic powder substitute in many recipes. These vegetables can be used to add flavor to soups, salads, and sauces. You can also use them to make roasted garlic.
To use onions or shallots as a garlic powder substitute, mince or chop the vegetable into small pieces and add it to your dish. You can also roast the vegetable and puree it into a paste.
12. Asafoetida powder
Asafoetida powder is made from the dried sap of a ferula plant and has a strong, pungent flavor. It’s often used in Indian cooking as a substitute for onions and garlic.
It can be used to flavor curries, stews, and vegetable dishes. Use lesser amount of asafoetida powder as a garlic powder substitute, because it is very strong in flavor. You can always add more after tasting.
There are many other spices and herbs that can be used as garlic powder substitutes, so get creative and experiment with different flavors. With a little trial and error, you’re sure to find the perfect seasoning for your dish.
Related Questions
What Does Garlic Powder Taste Like?
Garlic powder has a strong, pungent flavor that can be overwhelming if used too liberally. It’s also quite salty, so it’s best used as a seasoning rather than an ingredient. When used sparingly, garlic powder can add a nice depth of flavor to dishes.
How Do You Make Homemade Garlic Powder?
Making your own garlic powder is easy! Simply put dried garlic in a food processor or blender and pulse until the garlic is finely ground. Store your homemade garlic powder in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
What Is the Difference Between Garlic Powder and Garlic Salt?
Garlic powder is simply ground dried garlic, while garlic salt is a combination of garlic and salt. Garlic salt is more flavorful than garlic powder, but it can also be more overwhelming. Use garlic salt sparingly, or opt for garlic powder instead.
Is Granulated Garlic the Same as Garlic Powder?
Granulated garlic is similar to garlic powder, but it has a coarser texture. It can be used in place of garlic powder, but you may need to adjust the amount you use since granulated garlic is less potent.
Final Words
These are some of the best garlic powder substitutes that you can use to add flavor to your dishes. If you don’t have any garlic powder on hand, simply reach for one of these spices and your dish will still be delicious.
Have you ever used a garlic powder substitute? Let us know in the comments below!
