Best Kimchi Brine Substitutes
What Can I Use Instead of Kimchi Brine in a Recipe?
Use the same amount as the original. Mix 2 tbsp gochugaru, ¾ cup water, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tbsp vinegar. Provides spicy, fermented depth; use immediately or let sit 30 minutes for more developed flavor.
Looking for the best Kimchi Brine substitute? You're in the right place. We've rounded up 2 reliable Kimchi Brine replacements that work in cooking and baking — ranked and explained so you can pick the right one for your recipe. Great for when you want to save money at the store or keep things plant-based. The top pick is Gochugaru + Water + Salt + Vinegar — it's the closest match for most recipes. Mix 2 tbsp gochugaru, ¾ cup water, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tbsp vinegar. Provides spicy, fermented depth; use immediately or let sit 30 minutes for more developed flavor.
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Get ratios for Kimchi Brine →All Kimchi Brine Substitutes (2 options)
Mix 2 tbsp gochugaru, ¾ cup water, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tbsp vinegar. Provides spicy, fermented depth; use immediately or let sit 30 minutes for more developed flavor.
Combine 1.5 tbsp red pepper flakes, 1 tbsp vinegar, and ¾ cup salted water. Less complex than true kimchi brine but works for marinades and quick pickles.
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Tips for Substituting Kimchi Brine
For most recipes, Gochugaru + Water + Salt + Vinegar is the best starting point. Mix 2 tbsp gochugaru, ¾ cup water, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tbsp vinegar. Provides spicy, fermented depth; use immediately or let sit 30 minutes for more developed flavor. Going plant-based? Gochugaru + Water + Salt + Vinegar, Red Pepper Flakes + Vinegar + Salt Water are both vegan-friendly options that work well in most recipes. Watching your grocery budget? Red Pepper Flakes + Vinegar + Salt Water is the most wallet-friendly swap and does a solid job in most uses. If you need a gluten-free alternative, Gochugaru + Water + Salt + Vinegar fits the bill without the gluten.
Common Questions About Kimchi Brine Substitutes
The best substitute for Kimchi Brine is Gochugaru + Water + Salt + Vinegar. Use the same amount. Mix 2 tbsp gochugaru, ¾ cup water, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tbsp vinegar. Provides spicy, fermented depth; use immediately or let sit 30 minutes for more developed flavor.
This guide lists 2 Kimchi Brine alternatives. The best one depends on your recipe, dietary needs, and what you have on hand — check the substitution cards above for details on each.
Gochugaru + Water + Salt + Vinegar is a great plant-based alternative to Kimchi Brine. Mix 2 tbsp gochugaru, ¾ cup water, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tbsp vinegar. Provides spicy, fermented depth; use immediately or let sit 30 minutes for more developed flavor.
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