Stock vs Water
A side-by-side guide to substituting Water for Stock (or vice versa).
Water works as a 1:1 swap for Stock in most recipes.
Side-by-side
Water
Conversion: 1:1 substitution (use the same amount)
Tags: budget
Notes: Water lacks stock's depth and savory body; use 1:1 but add salt, herbs, or bouillon to compensate. Best reserved for recipes where broth isn't the main flavor driver.
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Water lacks stock's depth and savory body; use 1:1 but add salt, herbs, or bouillon to compensate. Best reserved for recipes where broth isn't the main flavor driver. The conversion is 1:1 substitution (use the same amount).
Common questions
Yes — Water lacks stock's depth and savory body; use 1:1 but add salt, herbs, or bouillon to compensate. Best reserved for recipes where broth isn't the main flavor driver. Ratio: 1:1 substitution (use the same amount).
1:1 substitution (use the same amount). For other quantities, use the SubSwap calculator.
They are similar in most uses, but Water lacks stock's depth and savory body; use 1:1 but add salt, herbs, or bouillon to compensate..
Water is one of the options SubSwap lists for Stock. The 'best' choice depends on your recipe — see the full list of Stock substitutes.
Looking for more Stock substitutes beyond Water?
See all Stock swaps →