Garlic is a staple ingredient in many dishes, but what happens when you’re out of fresh cloves? Whether you’re looking for a quick fix or a long-term alternative to garlic cloves, there are plenty of flavorful substitutes that can save your recipe.
Key Takeaways
- Garlic powder, granulated garlic, and garlic salt are the closest substitutes for fresh cloves.
- Herbs and spices like cumin and asafoetida work in specific dishes.
- Onions, shallots, and chives provide a similar aromatic depth.
- Dorot Gardens Frozen Garlic offers a convenient, pre-portioned alternative.
- Roasted vegetables and umami-rich ingredients can enhance flavors without garlic.
- Homemade garlic oil can serve as a subtle alternative in cooking.
- Coconut aminos and mustard powder provide a sharp, tangy depth in garlic-free recipes.
- Garlic-infused butter is another great way to achieve a garlicky flavor without raw cloves.
- Fennel bulbs and leeks add depth and mild sweetness to dishes without overpowering them.
- Horseradish and mustard seeds work well in marinades and dressings for a punchy flavor.
Best Substitute for Garlic Cloves in Cooking
When you need an easy replacement, try these top choices:
1. Garlic Powder or Granulated Garlic
- Closest match to fresh garlic flavor
- Use 1/4 teaspoon per garlic clove
2. Garlic Salt
- Contains both garlic and salt—adjust seasoning accordingly
- Use 1/2 teaspoon per garlic clove
3. Dorot Gardens Frozen Garlic
- No peeling or chopping required
- Pre-measured cubes equal one fresh clove
Herbal and Vegetable Alternatives
For a milder alternative to garlic cloves, consider these herbal and vegetable substitutes:
- Onion or Shallots – Offer a similar savory depth; use 1 tablespoon per clove
- Chives – Provide a subtle garlicky taste, ideal for garnishes
- Leeks – Great for soups and stews, use 2 tablespoons per clove
- Scallions – Packs a fresh onion-garlic hybrid flavor
- Fennel Bulbs – Slightly sweet, aromatic, and excellent in roasted dishes
- Celery and carrot puree – Works well in soups and stews for added depth
Cooking Hacks for Garlic-Free Flavor
If you’re avoiding garlic entirely, here are a few ways to build rich flavors:
- Slow-roast vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and carrots to enhance sweetness and depth.
- Use miso paste to add umami complexity to soups and sauces.
- Sauté mushrooms for a rich, earthy taste that mimics garlic’s depth.
- Make garlic-infused oil for a subtle flavor boost without actual garlic pieces.
- Garlic-infused butter – Melt butter with whole garlic cloves, then remove before serving.
- Try lemon zest – A bright and tangy alternative in Mediterranean-style dishes.
- Add nutritional yeast for a subtle savory kick in dressings and dips.ol.
Spices That Work as an Alternative to Garlic Cloves
If you’re looking to replace garlic due to dietary needs, try these:
- Asafoetida – A pungent spice used in Indian cuisine; use a pinch per clove. Has an onion-garlic flavor, making it a great substitute for garlic cloves.
- Cumin – Adds warmth and depth to dishes like chili and curries
- Mustard Powder – A sharp bite that mimics garlic’s intensity
- Smoked Paprika – Brings a hint of smoky, garlicky undertones
- Fennel Seeds – Provide a slightly sweet, anise-like flavor that complements savory dishes
- Horseradish – Brings a bold, spicy kick to marinades and dips
- Coriander Powder – A mild, nutty flavor that blends well with other spicesrlic locks in freshness and lasts up to 2 years in your freezer. Perfect for busy cooks!
Best Garlic-Free Store-Bought Options
For those with allergies or sensitivities, there are garlic-free seasonings available:
- Garlic-Free Herb Blends – A mix of thyme, rosemary, marjoram, oregano, and lavender (sometimes basil or tarragon).
- Dorot Gardens Frozen Herbs – Pre-portioned herbs like basil and cilantro
- Miso Paste – Offers umami depth in marinades and soups
- Coconut Aminos – A soy-free, savory alternative for sauces and dressings
- Garlic-Free Hot Sauce – Adds heat and complexity without garlic
- Nutritional Yeast – Brings a subtle umami richness without overpowering dishes