Beef broth is a common ingredient in a variety of recipes. We almost always have some in the house, but in case you don’t, it’s no sweat! Looking for a vegan or vegetarian-friendly alternative? Read on to find out more about beef broth substitutes you can turn to if you want a meatless option or simply don’t have any on hand.
Table of Contents
1. Beef Stock
Though not quite the same thing, beef stock can be used in place of beef broth. The main difference is that stock is made from boiling down the meat and the bones, whereas broth is made simply from boiling the bones.
2. Mushroom Broth
A healthy vegetarian choice, mushroom broth has a strong enough flavor to be a good substitute for beef broth in stews, soups, casseroles, and other recipes. You can make it yourself by frying up some yellow onion, chopped carrots, mushrooms, fresh parsley, a bay leaf, thyme, 2 to 3 peppercorns, and a touch of salt. Add water and bring to a boil.
You can use a 1:1 substitute ratio with mushroom broth and you can even add a little extra kick with Worcestershire.
3. Beef Bouillon
Beef bouillon cubes are condensed beef flavorings that can be used in place of broth. Boil 1 cube in water and use a 1:1 ratio when substituting it for broth.
4. Beef Base
Beef base is another form of beef stock. It’s a reduced alternative that has a paste-like consistency. It’s very flavorful. You can mix it with water to thin it and you should use a ratio of 1:1 when substituting.
5. Beef Consommé
Canned consommé is another alternative you can use for beef broth. It is basically reduced beef broth that is boiled until it thickens. It has a deep, rich, intense flavor. The best way to use it is to dilute a tiny bit in water and use a 1:1 ratio of your mixture.
6. Wine or Beer
Red wine or beer can also be used in place of beef broth in gravies, sauces, stews, and soups. They are loaded with flavor and can add so much taste to your recipe when you’re in a bind. Use a 1:1 ratio for best results.
Red wine or beer might sound like an odd beef broth substitute, but many gravies, sauces and
7. Liquid Aminos
You can try liquid aminos as a vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free alternative to beef broth. It is very similar to soy sauce and adds so much flavor to a recipe. Mix equal parts liquid amino with vegetable broth or water and then use the mixture at a 1:1 ratio for substitution.
8. Soy Sauce
Popular in Asian cuisine, soy sauce can be a beef broth alternative. Start by adding very little and add more gradually after you taste. You can also dilute with water or liquid aminos.
9. Vegetable Broth
Though it has a much milder taste, vegetable broth can work well in soups, stews, casseroles, and more. You can also add soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for added flavor. Use a 1:1 ratio to substitute.
10. Water
When you are really in a pickle, you can boil water with some seasonings, butter, and oil. You can also add parsley, garlic, and bay leaves to give it a more robust flavor, similar to beef broth. Use a 1:1 ratio for substitution.
Homemade Beef Broth
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef bones
- 1 cup onion roughly chopped
- 1 large carrot roughly chopped
- 2 stalks celery roughly chopped
- 2 quarts cold water water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf
Instructions
- Place all ingredients together in a stock pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer.
- Skim off the gray substance that forms on top with a skimmer or a slotted spoon.
- Simmer for another two hours, slightly uncovered.
- Discard leftover bones and vegetables.
- Pour the liquid through a sieve or a cheesecloth to drain excess particles and filter the broth.
- Collect the filtered broth in a bowl or storage container to use immediately or to keep for later.
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