What's The Best Chili Paste Substitute? 15 Options

With so many chili paste alternatives on the market, it can be hard to know which one is the best. To help you make an informed decision, I've put together a list of the top fifteen chili paste substitutes for your consideration. 

Jump to:

• What Is Chili Paste?
• Quick and Best Substitute Hot Sauce and Ketchup
• The Ulitmate List Of Best Chili Paste Substitutes
• 1. Sriracha
• 2. Sambal Oelek
• 3. Harissa
• 4. Gochujang
• 5. Chili Garlic Sauce
• 6. Piri Piri Sauce or Peri Peri Sauce
• 7. Calabrian Chili Paste
• 8. Louisiana-Style Hot Sauce
• 9. Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce
• 10. Salsa
• 11. Spicy Tomato Sauce
• 12. Tapenade
• 13. Spicy Hummus
• 14. Red Curry Paste
• 15. Creole Mustard
• People Also Ask [FAQs]
• Warp Up: Chili Paste Substitute
• Recipe

What Is Chili Paste?

Chili paste is a thick, spicy sauce made from ground chili peppers, vinegar, salt, and other seasonings. It is used as a condiment or ingredient in many Asian dishes, such as stir-fries, curries, and marinades. If you don't have chili paste on hand, there are several good substitutes that can be used in its place. Sriracha sauce is a popular chili sauce that has a similar flavor and consistency to chili paste. Other substitutes include sambal oelek, harrisa, gochujang, piri piri sauce, hot sauce, and more. In this article, I'll go into greater depth about each of these alternatives, including how to use each one in a recipe.

Quick and Best Substitute Hot Sauce and Ketchup

If you need a quick fix, you can simply combine hot sauce and ketchup to approximate the flavor of chili paste. Use: 1 teaspoon of hot sauce and 1 teaspoon of ketchup

The Ulitmate List Of Best Chili Paste Substitutes

1. Sriracha

Sriracha is made from roasted red peppers, garlic, vinegar, and sugar. Sriracha sauce is thicker than chili paste, so it can be used as a condiment or dipping sauce. It can also be used in marinades and stir-fries.

• To use Sriracha as a substitute for chili paste, 1 teaspoon of Sriracha can be substituted for 1 tablespoon of chili paste.
• When substituting Sriracha for chili paste in a recipe, it is important to add additional liquid to the dish to thin out the sauce.
• Sriracha can also be used as a topping for pizzas and pasta dishes. It can also be added to soups and stews to give them a little extra spice.
• Add Sriracha to mayonnaise or ketchup to make a spicy condiment for burgers or sandwiches.
• Mix Sriracha with honey to make a glaze for chicken or pork.
• Add Sriracha to guacamole or salsa for an extra kick.
• Drizzle Sriracha over eggs, rice, or noodles for a spicy breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

2. Sambal Oelek

Sambal Oelek is a type of chili paste that originates from Indonesia. It is made from chili peppers, vinegar, and salt. Sambal Oelek is commonly used as a seasoning or flavor enhancer in Asian cuisine. It has a fiery taste that can add depth and spice to any dish. If you are looking for a substitute for chili paste, sambal Oelek is a good option. Here are some tips for using sambal Oelek:

• When substituting sambal oelek for chili paste, use a 1:1 ratio.
• Sambal oelek can be used in both cooked and raw dishes.
• If you want to tone down the heat, add additional vinegar or salt to taste.
• It can be stored in the fridge for up to 6 months.

3. Harissa

Harissa is a North African chili paste that's gaining popularity as a flavorful and versatile ingredient. Here are some reasons why it's a great substitute for chili paste, as well as some tips on how to use it:

• Harissa has a complex flavor profile that's both spicy and earthy. It's made with a combination of chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, and spices such as cumin and coriander. This gives it a depth of flavor that chili paste doesn't have.
• Harissa is also much less sweet than chili paste. This makes it ideal for savory dishes where you don't want the sweetness of the chili paste to overpower the other flavors.
• Harissa is easy to use as a substitute for chili paste in many recipes. Simply use the same amount of harissa as you would chili paste.
• Harissa goes well with meats such as chicken, lamb, and beef. Try rubbing it on meats before grilling or roasting them.
• Mix harissa with mayonnaise or yogurt to make a flavorful dipping sauce or sandwich spread.
• Add harissa to stews, soups, and chili for a spicy kick.
• Use harissa as a pizza topping in place of traditional red pepper flakes.

4. Gochujang

Gochujang is a Korean chili paste that is often used as a flavor enhancer or as a condiment. It is made from chili peppers, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt, and has a thick, sticky texture.

• The taste of gochujang is spicy, sweet, and savory all at once, making it a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different dishes.
• Chili paste is usually much spicier than gochujang. As a result, when substituting gochujang for chili paste, it is important to add other chiles to get the desired spice level. Here are some tips for using gochujang:
• Add it to soups or stews for flavor depth.
• Stir it into cooked rice or noodles.
• Use it as a marinade for meat or vegetables.
• Spread it on toast or crackers as a snack.

5. Chili Garlic Sauce

Chili garlic sauce is a great substitute for chili paste because it has a similar taste profile. It is made from ground chilies, garlic, and vinegar. Chili paste is usually made from roasted chilies, garlic, and salt. The difference in ingredients makes chili garlic sauce a little more vinegary and less intense than chili paste.

• To substitute chili garlic sauce for chili paste, use 1 tablespoon of sauce for every 1 teaspoon of paste. 
• Add it to stir-fries, curries, or marinades for extra flavor. 
• Mix it with mayonnaise or sour cream to make a spicy dip. 
• Use it as a pizza topping or in place of tomato sauce.

6. Piri Piri Sauce or Peri Peri Sauce

Piri piri sauce is a popular condiment in Portugal and Mozambique. It is made from a blend of chili peppers, garlic, and lemon. The sauce has a spicy, smoky flavor that is perfect for grilled meats and vegetables. Piri piri sauce can be used as a replacement for chili paste in many recipes. Here are some tips for using this versatile condiment:

• Piri piri sauce can be used as a marinade or dipping sauce.
• When substituting piri piri sauce for chili paste, use equal amounts of both ingredients.
• Piri piri sauce can also be used to add flavor to soups and stews. Simply add a few spoonfuls to the pot during cooking.

7. Calabrian Chili Paste

Calabrian chili paste is a great substitute for chili paste because it has a similar taste profile. The main difference is that Calabrian chili paste is made with roasted red peppers, while chili paste is made with dried peppers. This gives Calabrian chili paste a slightly sweeter flavor and a more vibrant color. It also has a slightly thinner consistency, which makes it easier to spread on foods.

• To substitute Calabrian chili paste for chili paste, use the following measurements: 1 tablespoon of Calabrian chili paste for every 2 tablespoons of chili paste.
• If you find that the flavor is too mild, you can add more Calabrian chili paste to taste. You can also add other ingredients to give the dish more depth of flavor, such as garlic, onion, or cumin.
• When cooking with Calabrian chili paste, be sure to simmer the dish for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This delicious condiment can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta sauces to pizzas to stir-fries.

8. Louisiana-Style Hot Sauce

When it comes to giving food a little extra zing, Louisiana-style hot sauce is a great option. It has a similar taste profile to chili paste, with a bit of extra tanginess from the vinegar. And it's super versatile - you can use it as a condiment, add it to soups and stews, or use it as a marinade. Here are some tips for using Louisiana-style hot sauce as a substitute for chili paste:

• Start by substituting 1 teaspoon of hot sauce for every 1 tablespoon of chili paste called for in the recipe. Then, adjust to taste.
• When using hot sauce in place of chili paste in soups or stews, add it at the beginning of cooking so that the flavors have time to meld.
• For marinades, substitute equal parts hot sauce and oil for the chili paste. Then, add other desired ingredients such as garlic, herbs, and spices.

9. Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce

Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce are a great substitute for chili paste. They have a similar taste profile, but the adobo sauce adds a smoky flavor that is unique and delicious. Here are some tips for using chipotle peppers in adobo sauce:

• Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce can be used in any recipe that calls for chili paste. Simply substitute an equal amount of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for the chili paste.
• The leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks. Simply place them in a sealed container or jar and store them in the fridge.

10. Salsa

For those who don't know, salsa is a seasoning paste made from chilies and other ingredients like tomatoes, onions, garlic, vinegar, and salt. It's commonly used as a condiment or dipping sauce, but it can also be used as a spice in cooking. While salsa is typically associated with Mexican cuisine, it actually has its origins in South America. The word salsa literally means "sauce" in Spanish, and it's thought to have originated in the Caribbean region (Aztecs period).

• Salsa has a more balanced flavor than chili paste. Chili paste is generally quite spicy, while salsa has a moderate amount of heat that is offset by the other ingredients. This makes it more versatile and easier to use in dishes where you don't want the spices to overwhelm the other flavors.
• Salsa is less likely to burn than chili paste. This is because the water content from tomatoes in the salsa prevents the sauce from getting too hot.

11. Spicy Tomato Sauce

Spicy tomato sauce is a staple in many kitchens, but have you ever wondered why it's so darn spicy? The answer lies in its unique combination of ingredients. chili peppers, onions, garlic, and tomatoes all have compounds that can irritate the mucous membranes. When these compounds are combined, they create a potent mixture that can knock your socks off! But don't let the heat scare you away. Spicy tomato sauce can add a delicious depth of flavor to any dish. If you're looking to add a little extra zing to your cooking, here are some tips on how to use it.

• Add it to pasta dishes: A little spicy tomato sauce can take your spaghetti from bland to wow in no time! Just be sure to start with a small amount and add more to taste.
• Use it as a pizza topping: Love pepperoni pizza but want something with a little more kick? Give spicy tomato sauce a try! It's also delicious on white pizzas or veggie pies.
• Make a killer chili: There's nothing like a bowl of piping hot chili on a cold day. To up the ante, substitute regular tomato sauce for spicy tomato sauce in your favorite recipe.

12. Tapenade

Tapenade is made from olives, capers, anchovies, and various herbs and spices. The paste has a strong flavor that is salty and slightly acidic. It can be used as a spread on bread or crackers, or as a topping for salads and pasta dishes. Tapenade can also be used to flavor meat and fish dishes. If you are looking for a replacement for chili paste, Tapenade is a good option, although it may not offer the same taste profile. Here are some tips for using Tapenade:

• To add flavor to pasta dishes, mix Tapenade with olive oil and Parmesan cheese.
• For a quick snack, spread Tapenade on crackers or bread.
• To add zest to salads, mix Tapenade with vinegar and olive oil.
• To enhance the flavor of meat or fish dishes, top with Tapenade before cooking.

13. Spicy Hummus

Spicy hummus is a great alternative to chili paste because it has a similar taste profile but is much healthier. It is made with chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and cumin. The addition of cayenne pepper or other hot spices gives it a kick that chili paste lacks.

• Spicy hummus can be used in the same way as chili paste, as a condiment or dip.
• It is also great on sandwiches and wraps. As an added bonus, it is high in protein and fiber and low in calories.
• To make your own spicy hummus, simply combine all of the ingredients in a food processor or blender and blend until smooth.
• You can adjust the amount of spice to suit your taste. If you want a thinner consistency, add more olive oil or water until you reach the desired consistency.
• Store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

14. Red Curry Paste

Red Curry Paste is a type of chili paste that is made from red chilies, garlic, shallots, lemongrass, and galangal. It is commonly used in Thai and Vietnamese cuisine to add flavor and spice to dishes. It has a bold, spicy flavor that is balanced by the sweetness of the lemongrass and the earthiness of the galangal. It can be used in a variety of dishes, including stir-fries, curries, soups, and marinades.

• To use Red Curry Paste, simply add it to your dish while cooking. For best results, cook the curry paste for a few minutes before adding other ingredients. This will help to release the flavors and allow them to meld with the other ingredients in your dish.
• You can also add Red Curry Paste to sauces or spreads to give them a boost of flavor.
• When stored in an airtight container, Red Curry Paste will keep for up to six months.

15. Creole Mustard

Creole mustard is a type of mustard that originated in Louisiana. It is made from a combination of brown and yellow mustard seeds, vinegar, and spices. Creole mustard has a strong, spicy flavor that makes it great for use in chili paste. It can also be used as a condiment on sandwiches or as a dipping sauce for wings or other fried foods.

• When substituting Creole mustard for other types of mustard in recipes, it is important to keep the following tips in mind:
• Creole mustard is much spicier than other types of mustard, so you may need to use less of it in order to avoid overwhelming your dish.
• If you are using Creole mustard as a condiment, be sure to serve it with food that can stand up to its strong flavor. hearty dishes like burgers or ribs are a good choice.
• If you want to tone down the spice of Creole mustard, you can mix it with mayonnaise or another type of milder mustard. By doing this, you'll still get the unique flavor of Creole mustard without overpowering your dish.

People Also Ask [FAQs]

Warp Up: Chili Paste Substitute

• There are many substitutes for chili paste that can be used in a variety of dishes. From pantry staples like tomato paste and salsa to more exotic ingredients like Red Curry Paste, there is sure to be a chili paste substitute that will fit your needs. While there are many substitutes for chili paste, each has its own unique flavor that can enhance a dish, for example:
• Red curry paste is a type of chili paste that is made from red chilies, garlic, shallots, lemongrass, and galangal. It has a bold, spicy flavor that is balanced by the sweetness of the sugar and the earthiness of the galangal.
• Sriracha is another type of chili paste that is made from a combination of chiles, garlic, vinegar, and sugar. It has a strong, spicy flavor that makes it great for use in chili paste.
• If you want to make your own chili paste at home, simply combine dried or fresh chili peppers, vinegar, sugar, salt, and water in a food processor or blender and process until smooth. Chili paste can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. When you're ready to use it, just spoon out as much as you need. If the paste is too thick, thin it out with some water.

Have you tried any of these substitutes for chili paste? What do you think is the best substitute for chili paste? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Recipe