Finding a delicious chicken broth alternative is easier than you think! Whether you follow a vegan diet, have food allergies, or simply want a healthier, plant-based option, there are plenty of substitutes that deliver the same rich umami flavor without any animal products.
Traditional chicken broth adds depth to soups, stews, and sauces, but plant-based alternatives like vegetable broth, miso, nutritional yeast, and mushroom broth can create equally savory and satisfying results. In this guide, we’ll explore the five best vegan substitutes for chicken broth—so you can cook your favorite dishes without compromising on taste.
Why Choose a Plant-Based Chicken Broth Alternative?
Switching to a plant-based chicken broth alternative offers several benefits, from better health to dietary inclusivity. Whether you’re aiming to reduce sodium intake, avoid animal products, or find an allergy-friendly substitute, plant-based options provide a flavorful and versatile solution.
1. Health Benefits of Plant-Based Alternatives
Many store-bought chicken broth products contain high levels of sodium, preservatives, and artificial flavor enhancers. Over time, excessive sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure and other health concerns. Plant-based alternatives, such as vegetable broth, miso paste, and nutritional yeast, allow you to control the ingredients and make healthier choices.
Additionally, traditional chicken broth may contain animal fats and cholesterol, which plant-based alternatives completely eliminate. If you have food sensitivities, using a vegan broth alternative ensures that your meals are dairy-free, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly. For inspiration, try a nutrient-packed recipe like this vegan green bean casserole, which uses plant-based broth for a wholesome twist.
2. Rich Umami Flavor Without Chicken
One of the main concerns when replacing chicken broth is maintaining the deep, savory flavor it adds to dishes. Thankfully, plant-based ingredients can create an equally satisfying umami-rich taste:
Vegetable broth: A well-seasoned blend of onions, carrots, celery, and herbs mimics the depth of traditional broth.
Miso paste: This fermented soybean paste provides a salty, rich umami kick.
Nutritional yeast: Also known as “nooch,” it adds a slightly cheesy, savory depth to soups and stews.
No-chicken bouillon: Specially crafted bouillon powders or cubes replicate the classic chicken broth taste without using animal ingredients.
3. Homemade vs. Store-Bought Alternatives
When choosing a chicken broth alternative, you can either make it from scratch or opt for convenient store-bought options.
Homemade Broth:
Customizable flavors and ingredients.
No artificial additives or preservatives.
Can be frozen for later use.
Requires time to prepare.
Store-Bought Options:
Quick and easy to use.
Available in liquid, powder, or bouillon cube form.
Some contain added sodium or preservatives (always check labels).
By choosing a plant-based chicken broth alternative, you’re not just making a healthier choice—you’re also enhancing flavors naturally while supporting a more sustainable and cruelty-free way of cooking.
5 Best Vegan Substitutes for Chicken Broth
If you’re looking for a chicken broth alternative, these plant-based substitutes offer the same depth of flavor while keeping your meals 100% vegan and allergen-friendly. Whether you prefer homemade options or store-bought convenience, these five alternatives will help you create rich, umami-packed dishes.
1. Vegetable Broth
One of the best and easiest vegan alternatives to chicken broth is vegetable broth. It’s made from simple ingredients like carrots, celery, onions, garlic, and bay leaves, creating a balanced, savory base for soups, stews, and sauces.
How to Make Homemade Vegetable Broth:
Chop 2 carrots, 2 celery stalks, 1 onion, and 3 garlic cloves.
Sauté the vegetables in a large pot with a little oil for 5 minutes.
- Add 8 cups of water, 2 bay leaves, and fresh herbs like thyme or parsley (you can find high-quality dried thyme on Amazon for convenience).
Simmer for 45 minutes, then strain.
Store-Bought Vegan Broth Options
If you prefer ready-made vegetable broth, look for brands like:
Pacific Foods Organic Vegetable Broth
Imagine Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth
Swanson Unsalted Vegetable Broth
These store-bought options provide an easy chicken broth replacement without compromising on flavor.
2. Miso Broth
Miso paste is a fantastic alternative to chicken broth, thanks to its rich umami flavor. Made from fermented soybeans, miso adds depth to soups, stir-fries, and marinades.
How to Make a Quick Miso Broth:
Heat 1 cup of water (but don’t boil it, as high heat destroys miso’s probiotics).
Stir in 1 tablespoon of miso paste until dissolved.
Add optional ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, or garlic for more complexity.
3. Nutritional Yeast Broth
Nutritional yeast (nooch) is another great chicken broth alternative, known for its cheesy, savory, umami flavor. It’s loaded with B vitamins and has a slightly nutty taste, making it a popular ingredient in vegan cooking. You can stock up on nutritional yeast from Amazon to keep your pantry ready for this versatile substitute.
Simple Nutritional Yeast Broth Recipe:
Mix 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast with 1 cup of warm water.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, and a pinch of salt.
Stir well and use as a quick broth substitute for soups, stews, or sauces.
This broth is gluten-free, dairy-free, and completely plant-based, making it a perfect health-conscious alternative to chicken broth. Pair it with this vegan peanut butter brownies recipe for a savory-sweet combo.
4. Mushroom Broth
Mushrooms, especially shiitake or cremini mushrooms, create a deep, earthy umami flavor that closely resembles chicken broth. Their natural glutamates provide a rich and satisfying taste without using any animal ingredients.
How to Make Mushroom Broth:
Slice 1 cup of shiitake or cremini mushrooms.
Sauté with garlic and onions in a pot for a few minutes.
Add 6 cups of water, soy sauce, and fresh thyme.
Simmer on low heat for at least 45 minutes, then strain.
This slow-simmered mushroom broth is an excellent base for soups, risottos, and gravies, giving dishes a bold, meaty depth of flavor—without any chicken!
5. No-Chicken Bouillon or Powder
For those who want the closest taste to real chicken broth, vegan no-chicken bouillon cubes and powders are the best option. These products are specially formulated to mimic chicken broth while remaining completely plant-based.
Best Store-Bought No-Chicken Bouillon Options:
Better Than Bouillon No-Chicken Base – One of the most popular vegan broth substitutes, offering a rich, concentrated flavor.
Edward & Sons Not-Chick’n Bouillon Cubes – Great for making a quick broth or adding to rice and stews.
Imagine Vegetarian No-Chicken Broth – A ready-to-use liquid broth for easy meal prep.
By choosing one of these vegan substitutes for chicken broth, you can create delicious, plant-based meals while enhancing flavor naturally. Whether you prefer homemade broths or store-bought convenience, these options ensure that you never miss the savory richness of traditional chicken broth in your favorite recipes!
How to Use These Substitutes in Recipes
Switching to a vegan alternative for chicken broth is simple, but getting the right balance of flavor and consistency is key. Below, we’ll cover the best ratios for swapping, provide delicious recipe ideas, and share umami-boosting tips to ensure your dishes remain rich and flavorful.
1. Best Ratios for Swapping Chicken Broth with Vegan Alternatives
When replacing chicken broth with plant-based substitutes, use these general conversion ratios:
Vegetable broth → 1:1 ratio (Use the same amount as chicken broth)
Miso broth → ¾ cup miso broth for every 1 cup chicken broth (Miso is more concentrated)
Nutritional yeast broth → 1:1 ratio (Adjust seasoning as needed)
Mushroom broth → 1:1 ratio (Adds deeper umami flavors)
No-chicken bouillon → Follow package instructions (Usually, 1 teaspoon bouillon per 1 cup hot water)
If your dish calls for chicken broth and you need extra depth, try combining two alternatives—for example, vegetable broth + a splash of mushroom broth for enhanced richness.
2. Recipe Ideas Using Vegan Chicken Broth Substitutes
These chicken broth alternatives work in various dishes, adding savory depth without any animal products.
1. Vegan Soups
A well-made vegetable broth or mushroom broth forms the base of many comforting soups. Try these ideas:
Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup – Swap chicken broth for no-chicken bouillon and add chickpeas instead of chicken.
Miso Soup – Use miso broth, add tofu, seaweed, and green onions for a classic Japanese flavor.
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup – Use nutritional yeast broth to add a cheesy, nutty taste. Check out this costco butternut squash salad for a complementary side.
2. Risottos and Grains
Risottos rely on broth for flavor absorption, making chicken broth alternatives essential in vegan versions:
Vegan Mushroom Risotto – Replace chicken broth with mushroom broth for an extra umami kick.
Quinoa Pilaf – Cook quinoa in vegetable broth with garlic and herbs for added flavor.
Coconut Curry Rice – Simmer rice in vegetable broth mixed with coconut milk for a fragrant dish, inspired by this coconut custard pie.
3. Sauces & Gravies
Broth-based sauces and gravies can be just as rich and satisfying with vegan substitutes:
Vegan Gravy – Use no-chicken bouillon and thicken with flour or cornstarch. Pair it with this sweet potato cornbread.
Alfredo Sauce – Blend nutritional yeast broth with cashews for a creamy, dairy-free sauce.
Stir-Fry Sauce – Mix miso broth with soy sauce and sesame oil for a quick umami boost, perfect with fried squash.
3. Tips for Enhancing Umami Flavor
Since chicken broth adds a naturally savory, umami-rich taste to dishes, you may need to boost flavors when using vegan alternatives. Try these tricks:
- Soy Sauce or Tamari – A splash of soy sauce deepens flavor in broths, gravies, and marinades.
- Kombu (Seaweed) – Adding a strip of kombu to boiling broth enhances umami depth.
- Liquid Aminos – A gluten-free soy sauce alternative that adds a salty, savory kick.
- Roasting Vegetables – Before making vegetable broth, roast onions, carrots, and mushrooms to intensify the flavor.
- Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice – A small amount balances flavors and adds brightness. Explore this apple cider vinegar drink for more ideas.
By using these plant-based chicken broth substitutes in your favorite recipes and enhancing umami flavors, you can create rich, satisfying dishes without missing out on taste!
Homemade Vegan Chicken Broth Recipe
Making your own homemade vegan chicken broth is a simple and rewarding way to add rich, savory flavor to your dishes without using animal products. With a combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, nutritional yeast, and miso paste, this broth delivers the umami depth typically found in traditional chicken broth.
Follow this easy step-by-step recipe to create a flavorful, plant-based chicken broth alternative at home.
Ingredients
To achieve a deep, complex flavor, we’ll use a mix of aromatic vegetables, umami-boosting ingredients, and fresh herbs:
2 large carrots (chopped) – Adds natural sweetness and depth.
2 celery stalks (chopped) – Enhances the broth with earthy flavors.
1 large onion (quartered) – Provides a robust flavor base.
4 garlic cloves (smashed) – Adds a rich, slightly spicy aroma.
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast – Infuses a cheesy, umami-rich taste.
1 tablespoon miso paste (white or yellow) – Gives a deep, savory boost.
1 teaspoon turmeric – Adds a golden color and mild warmth.
1 teaspoon black peppercorns – Enhances complexity.
2 bay leaves – Provides a subtle herbal background.
1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary – Adds classic broth-like seasoning.
8 cups water – The base for your broth.
(Optional: Add a small piece of kombu (seaweed) for an extra umami boost!)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your own vegan chicken broth:
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat a small amount of oil or water over medium heat.
Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, and cook for 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
Add Water & Seasonings
Pour in 8 cups of water and add bay leaves, thyme, black peppercorns, and turmeric.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
Simmer for Maximum Flavor
Let the broth simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
The longer it simmers, the more flavor it develops.
Strain & Enhance
Remove from heat and strain the broth using a fine-mesh sieve.
Stir in nutritional yeast and miso paste, mixing well until dissolved.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or soy sauce if needed.
Storage Tips: Keep Your Broth Fresh
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freezing – Pour into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for up to 3 months.
- Reheating – Warm on the stove or microwave, stirring gently before use.
Now, you have a homemade chicken broth alternative that’s plant-based, flavorful, and easy to make! Use it in soups, risottos, gravies, and more for a delicious boost of umami.
FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions about vegan chicken broth alternatives:
1. Can I use these substitutes in any recipe that calls for chicken broth?
Yes, all five vegan substitutes—vegetable broth, miso broth, nutritional yeast broth, mushroom broth, and no-chicken bouillon—can be used in recipes calling for chicken broth. Just follow the recommended ratios (e.g., 1:1 for vegetable broth, ¾:1 for miso broth) and adjust seasoning to match the dish’s flavor profile.
2. Are vegan broth alternatives gluten-free?
Most vegan broth alternatives are naturally gluten-free, but it depends on the ingredients. Vegetable, mushroom, and nutritional yeast broths are typically safe. However, some miso pastes and no-chicken bouillons may contain gluten, so always check labels if you’re avoiding gluten. Liquid aminos can be a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce for added flavor.
3. How can I make my vegan broth taste more like chicken broth?
To mimic the savory, slightly meaty taste of chicken broth, use no-chicken bouillon for the closest flavor match. You can also enhance vegetable or mushroom broth with umami boosters like nutritional yeast, soy sauce, or roasted garlic. Adding herbs like thyme and bay leaves helps replicate the classic broth taste.
4. How long do homemade vegan broths last?
Homemade vegan broths, like the vegetable or mushroom broth recipes shared, last up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze them in freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Reheat gently before using.
Conclusion
Finding a chicken broth alternative doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re switching to plant-based cooking, dealing with allergies, or just looking for a healthier, lower-sodium option, there are plenty of vegan substitutes that deliver the same rich, savory taste as traditional chicken broth.
From vegetable broth to miso-based broths and no-chicken bouillon, these plant-based options can enhance soups, stews, sauces, and more. If you prefer a homemade touch, making your own vegan chicken broth with nutritional yeast, miso paste, and fresh vegetables is an easy and rewarding way to enjoy deep umami flavors. For a sweet treat to balance your savory creations, try this apple coffee cake.
No matter which chicken broth substitute you choose, these alternatives prove that plant-based cooking can be just as delicious and versatile as traditional methods. Try experimenting with different options to find the perfect vegan broth for your favorite recipes!
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