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    Home | Food Facts | Food Substitutes

    Unleash Flavors: 16 Chili Paste Substitute Options

    Published: Jul 21, 2022 · Modified: Sep 4, 2023 by Elle

    Jump to Recipe

    I've got a list of 16 sizzling chili paste alternatives for you. Whether you’re in a pinch or looking to experiment with bold, exotic flavors, these substitutes will surely add an exciting twist to your meals. So, let’s turn up the heat, shall we?

    A spoon with Homemade Chili Paste and chill paste jar in the background.
    Jump to:
    • 💎 Why Do These Substitutes Work
    • ❓ What is Chili Paste?
    • 🥣 Uses Of Chili Paste
    • 🎯 Why You Need Chili Paste Substitutes?
    • 📜 List Of 16 Best Substitutes for Chili Paste
    • 🌟 Quick and Best Substitute
    • 1. Hot Sauce and Ketchup
    • 🌶️ Substitutes for Heat and Flavor:
    • 2. Sriracha or Frank's RedHot
    • 3. Louisiana-Style Hot Sauce
    • 4. Tabasco
    • 🔴 Substitutes for Richness and Depth:
    • 5. Sambal Oelek
    • 6. Chili Garlic Sauce
    • 7. Harissa
    • 8. Spicy Hummus
    • 9. Red Curry Paste
    • ♨️ Substitutes for Umami and Complexity:
    • 10. Gochujang
    • 11. Piri Piri Sauce or Peri Peri Sauce
    • 12. Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce
    • 13. Calabrian Chili Paste
    • 14. Spicy Salsa
    • 15. Spicy Tomato Sauce
    • 16. Romesco Sauce
    • People Also Ask [FAQs]
    • 💡 Tips: Factors to Consider When Choosing Substitutes
    • 🔑 Key Takeaways: Chili Paste Substitute
    • 🍽️ Recipe

    💎 Why Do These Substitutes Work

    1. Quick and Convenient Options: Discover a variety of substitutes for chili paste that are readily available in your kitchen, saving you time and effort.
    2. Flavor and Heat Enhancement: Learn how these substitutes bring both flavor and heat to your dishes, enhancing your culinary creations.
    3. Versatility in Dishes: Explore how each substitute can be used in various dishes, from marinades and stir-fries to soups and sauces.
    4. Substitution Tips: Gain insight into substitution ratios, flavor profiles, and pairing suggestions, ensuring successful flavor replication in your recipes.

    ❓ What is Chili Paste?

    Chili paste is a condiment made from fresh or dried chili peppers that have been ground into a paste. Simply put, chili paste is a mixture of ground chili peppers, oil, and other ingredients such as salt, vinegar, garlic, and sugar.

    It's a versatile ingredient that can be used in both Asian and non-Asian cuisines. The level of spiciness of chili paste depends on the type of chili pepper used and the amount added to the mixture.

    Some popular types of chili peppers used in chili paste are Thai bird's eye chili, Korean gochujang, and Mexican dried chili peppers.

    🥣 Uses Of Chili Paste

    One of the most common uses is for dipping sauces or marinades. You can mix chili paste with soy sauce, vinegar, or honey to create a tangy sauce for dumplings, spring rolls, or meats.

    It's also great as a glaze for roasted or grilled meat, such as chicken or pork. Another popular use is for stir-frying vegetables or noodles. A spoonful of chili paste can instantly add depth and flavor to your stir-fry.

    A jar of homemade chili paste with fresh red chilis on the side.

    🎯 Why You Need Chili Paste Substitutes?

    • Dietary Restrictions: For those with dietary limits, alternate chili paste options offer flavorful choices that cater to their needs, letting them savor spicy meals while staying healthy.
    • Flavor Diversity: The substitutes open doors to various flavor profiles. Different alternatives bring unique tastes, adding complexity and richness to your cooking. This flexibility boosts your cooking skills and keeps your meals captivating.
    • Availability and Convenience: Chili paste might not be a kitchen staple everywhere. Keeping chili paste alternatives allows you to create tasty dishes even without the original. The substitutes listed here are very handy when time is short or ingredients are limited.

    🔔 Be sure to check out the recipe card to make your own chili paste with all the ingredients and instructions. Don't miss out on any of the details!

    📜 List Of 16 Best Substitutes for Chili Paste

    Here is a list of 16 alternatives for chili paste that will bring flavor and heat to your dishes.

    🌟 Quick and Best Substitute

    1. Hot Sauce and Ketchup

    If you want to add a little sweetness to your spicy dish, try mixing hot sauce and ketchup. It's a simple and convenient option that you can easily find in your kitchen.

    In a small bowl, mix two parts hot sauce to one part ketchup, making sure to adjust the ratio to suit your preference. This combination is excellent as a marinade for meats, a dipping sauce for fries or chicken tenders, or a sauce for stir-fry dishes.

    Hot Sauce and Ketchup Best Chili Paste Substitute

    🌶️ Substitutes for Heat and Flavor:

    2. Sriracha or Frank's RedHot

    Sriracha and Frank's RedHot are reliable options for chili paste substitutes. These well-loved sauces are quite popular because of their unique taste and versatility.

    Sriracha, made of chili sauce, vinegar, garlic, and sugar, adds sweet tanginess and moderate heat to your dishes. Here are some of the best substitutes for sriracha.

    Frank's RedHot, on the other hand, is made of aged cayenne pepper, vinegar, and salt and has a bold, spicy kick that is perfect for buffalo chicken, fish tacos, and soups.

    Use these as a 1:1 substitute for red chili paste to get that umami flavor and spice level that you're looking for.

    Sriracha sauce as Chili Paste Substitute

    3. Louisiana-Style Hot Sauce

    Louisiana-style hot sauce is a staple in Southern cooking. It's a flavorful substitute that you can use for chili paste in any recipe.

    It usually consists of aged red peppers, vinegar, and salt, among other ingredients. To make your own Louisiana-style hot sauce, combine equal parts of red pepper flakes and vinegar. Allow it to sit for an hour to infuse the flavors, and then blend it with some salt.

    Use this sauce as a chicken, shrimp, or beef marinade or dip for your favorite snacks like crackers and chips.

    4. Tabasco

    Tabasco is a classic name in the world of hot sauces. It's a flavorful substitute for chili paste that is perfect if you're looking for a tangy, sour taste.

    Made from aged red peppers, vinegar, and salt, tabasco has a unique flavor profile that is excellent for adding heat and flavor to your dishes. Use it as a 1:1 substitute for chili paste in meat marinades, soups, and stews.

    A bottle of Tabasco sauce with fresh Tabasco chilies next to the bottle.

    🔴 Substitutes for Richness and Depth:

    5. Sambal Oelek

    Sambal Oelek is a popular condiment in Southeast Asia, especially in Indonesia. It is made from chilies, salt, and vinegar.

    You can use this as a substitute for chili paste in any dish that you want to add some spice to. Use roughly the same amount of Sambal Oelek to replace chili paste. The best food pairings for Sambal Oelek are stir-fries and any dressings or sauces.

    Sambal Oelek in pestle and mortar.

    6. Chili Garlic Sauce

    Chili Garlic Sauce is a popular condiment in Chinese cuisine made with crushed chili peppers, garlic, vinegar, and sugar.

    It's a versatile chili paste substitute that can be used in stir-fries, noodle dishes, and even as a dipping sauce. Use chili garlic sauce as a 1:1 replacement for chili paste in your recipe. Try it in a classic Kung Pao Chicken or a flavorful Spicy Dan Dan Noodles.

    7. Harissa

    Harissa is a Tunisian chili paste made with red chili peppers, garlic, and spices like cumin and coriander. It has a slightly smoky and sweet flavor and brings a fiery kick to any dish.

    For a rich and flavorful addition to stews, soups, and burgers, substitute harissa for chili paste at a 1:1 ratio. Try making a tasty Harissa Lamb Stew or use it as a marinade for Harissa Chicken Kebabs.

    A bowl of Harissa paste with fresh red chiles and spoon on the side.

    8. Spicy Hummus

    If you're looking for something creamy and spicy, then spicy hummus is your go-to chili paste substitute.

    Hummus is made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil, and adding crushed red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne can create a delicious heat. Use spicy hummus as a spread or dip or add it to your couscous salad or roasted vegetables for a delicious kick.

    9. Red Curry Paste

    Red Curry Paste is a Thai chili paste made from red chili peppers, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and other flavorful spices like coriander and cumin. It's a versatile chili paste substitute for curries, soups, and even marinades. Use Red Curry Paste as a 1:1 replacement for chili paste in your recipe. Try it in a delicious Thai Red Curry or a flavorful spicy Thai Basil Chicken.

    Crushed Red Curry Paste in a mortar

    ♨️ Substitutes for Umami and Complexity:

    10. Gochujang

    Gochujang is a traditional Korean sauce made from chili powder, glutinous rice, and fermented soybeans.

    It has a slightly sweet and tangy flavor and is commonly used in Korean dishes such as bibimbap and kimchi.

    The paste-like consistency makes it easy to mix into sauces and marinades. It's a great substitute for regular chili paste because it adds a depth of flavor that chili paste lacks. Try using gochujang in your stir-fries or as a marinade for grilled meats.

    11. Piri Piri Sauce or Peri Peri Sauce

    Piri Piri Sauce, also known as Peri Peri Sauce, is a hot sauce originating from Portugal and surrounding African countries. It's made from African bird's eye chilies and other spices, giving it a complex and unique flavor.

    It is a fantastic chili paste substitute because it has a similar level of spiciness but also adds a depth of flavor. It's perfect for adding to marinades or basting meats while grilling.

    Piri Piri Sauce as an alternative to Chili Paste

    12. Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce

    Chipotle peppers are jalapeño peppers that have been smoked and dried. They are then canned in adobo sauce, giving them a tangy and spicy flavor. You can find them in the international aisle of most grocery stores.

    Use a teaspoon of the adobo sauce or the chopped peppers to add heat to your recipes. They work well in stews, sauces, and marinades.

    13. Calabrian Chili Paste

    Calabrian Chili Paste, originating from the Calabria region in Southern Italy, is made from spicy Calabrian peppers and extra virgin olive oil. It has a rich and slightly sweet flavor with a heat level comparable to chili paste.

    Calabrian chili paste is a great substitute for chili paste for those who want to add some Italian flair to their dishes. Try it as a topping for pizza or mixing it into your pasta sauces.

    A spoon full of Calabrian Chili Paste from the glass jar.

    14. Spicy Salsa

    Salsa is a popular condiment that is usually made with tomatoes, onions, chilies, and cilantro.

    To make a spicy salsa that can substitute for chili paste, chop up one or two jalapenos or serrano peppers and mix them with your favorite salsa. This mixture can be used in soups, stews, and sauces. You can also add it as a topping to tacos or burritos.

    15. Spicy Tomato Sauce

    Tomato sauce is a common base for many pasta dishes and pizzas. You can make a spicy tomato sauce by adding a teaspoon of crushed pepper flakes or ground cayenne pepper to your favorite tomato sauce.

    This versatile sauce works well in soups, stews, and casseroles and can also be used as a dip for breadsticks or a topping for baked potatoes.

    16. Romesco Sauce

    Romesco sauce is a Spanish sauce made with red bell peppers, almonds, olive oil, and garlic. It has a nutty and slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with seafood and vegetables.

    If you want to use it as a substitution for chili paste, simply combine it with some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for an added kick. This versatile sauce is perfect for pasta dishes, sandwiches, and even as a dip for your favorite veggies.

    A bowl full of Romesco Sauce garnished with parsley.

    People Also Ask [FAQs]

    Can I Use Chili Oil Instead Of Chili Paste?

    Chili oil can be used instead of chili paste, as it offers a deeper flavor and more intense spiciness. However, the texture of chili oil is thinner than chili paste, so you may want to use less in your dish for the same level of spice. Additionally, since chili oils are usually made up primarily of vegetable or olive oil, they tend to have a higher fat content than chili pastes.

    How To Make Chili Paste From Chili Powder?

    Creating chili paste using chili powder is a quick and effortless process that takes only a couple of minutes. Simply combine ketchup or spicy tomato paste with one teaspoon of chili powder in a bowl until fully mixed.

    💡 Tips: Factors to Consider When Choosing Substitutes

    1. Heat Levels: The heat level of chili pastes and substitutes can vary. If you're unsure about the spiciness, start with a smaller quantity and gradually add more to taste.
    2. Flavor Profile: Each substitute has its own flavor profile. Consider how the flavors will complement your dish before substituting.
    3. Substitution Ratios: While many substitutes can be used at a 1:1 ratio, it's still a good idea to start with a bit less and adjust according to your taste preferences.
    4. Pairing with Dishes: Some substitutes are best suited for specific types of dishes. For instance, Sambal Oelek works well in stir-fries, while Gochujang is great for Korean dishes.

    🔑 Key Takeaways: Chili Paste Substitute

    • Chili paste is a condiment made from ground chili peppers, oil, and additional ingredients like salt, vinegar, garlic, and sugar.
    • It's versatile and used in Asian and non-Asian cuisines for dipping sauces, marinades, glazes, and stir-fries.
    • The spiciness depends on the chili type and amount used, with options like Thai bird's eye chili, Korean gochujang, and Mexican dried peppers.
    • Notable substitutes include hot sauce and ketchup, Sriracha sauce, Frank's RedHot, Louisiana-style hot sauce, Tabasco, Sambal Oelek, harissa, chili garlic sauce, spicy hummus, red curry paste, gochujang, piri piri sauce, Calabrian chili paste, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, spicy salsa, Romesco sauce, and spicy tomato sauce.

    👋 Have you given this recipe a try? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please leave us a ⭐ review below, and don't forget to tag us @spiceandlife_com on Instagram and Pinterest. Your feedback means the world to us, and we really appreciate it. For more recipes, follow us on Pinterest, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram. Thank you! 🙏

    🍽️ Recipe

    A spoon full of chili paste from the jar.

    Easy Homemade Chili Paste

    Elle
    This homemade chili paste is a condiment made from fresh chili peppers, vinegar, and spices. It is very easy to make and typically used to add flavor and heat to dishes.
    5 from 4 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Save Recipe Saved Recipe!
    Prep Time 2 minutes mins
    Cook Time 3 minutes mins
    Course Sauces
    Cuisine American
    Servings 1
    Calories 257 kcal

    Equipment

    • Food Processor or
    • Blender

    Ingredients
      

    • ½ lb Dried or Fresh Chili Peppers
    • ¼ cup Vinegar
    • 2 teaspoon Sugar
    • 1 tablespoon Salt
    • ½ cup Water
    • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil

    Instructions
     

    • Stem and seed the chili peppers.
    • Then, cut them into small pieces and add them to the food processor or blender along with the vinegar, sugar, salt, oil, and water.
    • Process the mixture until it's smooth.If you want a thinner consistency, add additional water a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency. If you want it thicker, add more chili peppers.
    • Then, transfer the paste to a clean jar or container and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Be sure to label it with the date so you don't forget how long it's been in there!
    • 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.

    Notes

    • When using dried chili peppers, start by soaking the dried peppers in warm water for about 30 minutes. This will soften them up and make them easier to blend.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 257kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 4gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 7004mgPotassium: 733mgFiber: 3gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 2159IUVitamin C: 326mgCalcium: 44mgIron: 3mg
    Keyword Chili Paste, Homemade Chili Paste
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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    Elle Author (Spice and Life)

    Thank you for being here. If you are having a look around, it is most probably because you too love cooking with herbs and spices and are looking for your next recipe, tip, or trick.

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