Best Tomato Substitutes
What Can I Use Instead of Tomato in a Recipe?
Use 50% of the called-for amount (so if the recipe calls for 1 cup Tomato, use 0.5 cup Canned whole tomatoes). In liquid brine; drain some if excess moisture unwanted. Better consistency for sauces; slightly less fresh flavor than fresh tomatoes.
Looking for the best Tomato substitute? You're in the right place. We've rounded up 5 reliable Tomato 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 Canned whole tomatoes — it's the closest match for most recipes. Use 50% of the amount. In liquid brine; drain some if excess moisture unwanted. Better consistency for sauces; slightly less fresh flavor than fresh tomatoes.
Want exact ratios calculated for your specific recipe? Use the free SubSwap calculator.
Get ratios for Tomato →All Tomato Substitutes (5 options)
In liquid brine; drain some if excess moisture unwanted. Better consistency for sauces; slightly less fresh flavor than fresh tomatoes.
Pre-cut and in juice. Faster cooking time; less texture variation than whole tomatoes.
Red peppers are sweeter and less acidic than tomatoes; use equal weight but expect less body and acidity in sauces. Best in raw or quick-cooked applications.
Tomato juice provides flavor and moisture but lacks the texture and seed content of fresh tomatoes. Use about ½ cup per oz of tomato.
Concentrated; dilute with water if needed. Use about 2 tbsp per oz of tomato. Much more intense tomato flavor; rich and umami-forward.
As an Amazon Associate, SubSwap earns from qualifying purchases.
Tips for Substituting Tomato
For most recipes, Canned whole tomatoes is the best starting point. In liquid brine; drain some if excess moisture unwanted. Better consistency for sauces; slightly less fresh flavor than fresh tomatoes. Going plant-based? Red Bell Pepper, Tomato Juice are both vegan-friendly options that work well in most recipes. Watching your grocery budget? Canned whole tomatoes is the most wallet-friendly swap and does a solid job in most uses. If you need a gluten-free alternative, Red Bell Pepper fits the bill without the gluten.
Common Questions About Tomato Substitutes
The best substitute for Tomato is Canned whole tomatoes. Use about 50% of the amount called for. In liquid brine; drain some if excess moisture unwanted. Better consistency for sauces; slightly less fresh flavor than fresh tomatoes.
This guide lists 5 Tomato 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.
Red Bell Pepper is a great plant-based alternative to Tomato. Red peppers are sweeter and less acidic than tomatoes; use equal weight but expect less body and acidity in sauces. Best in raw or quick-cooked applications.
Also commonly substituted
Related ingredients
New ingredients and substitutions added regularly. Get notified first — no spam.
SubSwap is free. If it saved your recipe, consider buying me a coffee ☕
☕ Buy me a coffee