10 Best Chili Garlic Sauce Substitutes

For me and my fellow spicy sauce enthusiasts, chili garlic sauce is a pantry essential. Whether you’re using it as a dipping sauce or adding it to stir-fries, this flavorful blend of chili peppers and garlic paste is a game-changer.

But what if you run out of your trusty jar of Huy Fong chili garlic sauce? Don’t hit the panic button just yet! I’ve got you covered with a list of the best substitutes for chili garlic sauce.

From sambal oelek chili paste to homemade chili garlic sauce, these alternatives give you the same intense flavor profile and heat.

So, join me as we explore the best substitutes for chili garlic sauce to save the day in any recipe. With plenty of store-bought and homemade alternatives, you’ll never run out of flavor options.

Bottles of Lee Kum Kee chili garlic sauce.

What is chili garlic sauce?

Chili garlic sauce is a spicy and flavorful condiment commonly used in Asian cuisine. It is typically made from a combination of chili flakes, garlic, tomato sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, and other seasonings.

The heat level of chili garlic sauce varies depending on the amount and type of chili flakes used. Some versions may also include chili powder or chili oil for an extra kick of spiciness.

This sauce is perfect for adding a spicy tang to stir-fries, marinades, and dressings. It can also be used as a dipping sauce for spring rolls and dumplings. Additionally, it can be a great substitute for traditional chili sauce in recipes.

If you are looking for a milder alternative, I also list chili garlic sauce substitutes that offer a similar spicy and tangy flavor without the intense heat.

Typical chili garlic sauce ingredients

Chili garlic sauce is a condiment that packs a punch of heat and flavor.

The essential ingredients in this Asian-inspired sauce are

  • garlic,
  • red chilies,
  • distilled vinegar
  • and salt.

This gives chili garlic sauce its unique spicy and garlicky profile. Store-bought chili garlic sauce also contains ingredients like potassium sorbate and sodium bisulfite as preservatives, and xanthan gum as a thickening agent.

Best substitutes for chili garlic sauce

If you love the spicy kick of chili garlic sauce, but don’t have any on hand, don’t worry! There are plenty of chili sauce substitutes that can provide the same unique flavor and spice level.

The key to finding the best substitutes for chili garlic sauce is understanding the basic composition and flavor profile. We want a spicy condiment with a coarse texture that is spicy and garlicky with a slight tang.

With a few minor alterations, many different chili sauces will fit the description.

So, whether you’re making an Asian-inspired dish or just want a spicy condiment to add to your meals, let’s explore the best chili garlic sauce substitutes.

1. Sambal oelek chili paste

Sambal oelek chili paste, a popular condiment made from ground red jalapeno peppers, vinegar, and salt, is a staple in Indonesian cuisine. Its spicy flavor and slightly sweet notes make it a versatile ingredient in various dishes.

This Asian chili paste makes a great substitute for chili garlic sauce when you’re in a pinch. But, for an even better match, mix two tablespoons of sambal oelek with one teaspoon of minced garlic (or garlic paste).

Use this substitute in the same quantity as chili garlic sauce in recipes like fried rice or as a condiment for a spicy kick.

2. Sriracha sauce

Sriracha, the popular hot sauce originally from Thailand, is a blend of red chiles, distilled white vinegar, garlic, sugar, and salt. It has a smooth, ketchup-like consistency and a unique flavor that is a balanced mix of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors.

The spicy and savory flavor profile makes sriracha a great substitute for chili garlic sauce.

When a recipe calls for chili garlic sauce, simply use an equal amount of sriracha for a similar flavor profile. You can also add a pinch of minced garlic to the dish to add texture and enhance the garlic flavor.

Sriracha is perfect for adding a spicy kick to your favorite dishes, whether it’s stir-fry, dipping sauce, or a marinade for grilled meats. With its bold Thai chili flavor, sriracha is a great choice for those who love spicy food.

3. Hot sauce

A glass bottle with Cholula hot sauce.

Regular hot sauce is a versatile condiment that adds a spicy kick to any meal.

To use hot sauce as a substitute for chili garlic sauce, simply mix it with a small amount of minced garlic or garlic paste to infuse that classic garlic flavor. You can also add a bit of vinegar or lime juice for some acidity, depending on the desired consistency and brand of hot sauce.

Use this hot sauce and garlic mixture as a 1:1 replacement in recipes that call for chili garlic sauce, whether it’s used as a dipping sauce or incorporated into a dish.

Not only is hot sauce a delicious substitute for chili garlic sauce, but it also packs a punch of heat that can elevate any dish. So the next time you’re in a pinch, reach for your favorite hot sauce and enjoy the delicious results.

4. Black bean sauce

Black bean sauce is a versatile condiment commonly used in Chinese cooking. Made from fermented black beans, garlic, and spices, it has a deep umami flavor with a hint of garlic heat. This makes it a great substitute for chili garlic sauce in dishes that require a rich, savory profile.

To use black bean sauce as a substitute for chili garlic sauce, simply add a teaspoon of minced fresh chilies for every tablespoon of black bean sauce.

This substitute is perfect for stir-fries, marinades, and sauces that require a balance of savory and spicy flavors.

5. Sweet chili sauce

A bottle of Thai sweet chili sauce.

While chili garlic sauce and sweet chili sauce may have similar ingredients, they offer distinctly different flavor profiles. Chili garlic sauce is known for its fiery heat and pungent garlic flavor, while sweet chili sauce is known for its balance of sweetness and spice.

However, in a pinch, you can use sweet chili sauce as a suitable substitute for chili garlic sauce.

To use sweet chili sauce as a substitute for chili garlic sauce, simply use it in the same quantity as the recipe calls for. Add fresh chopped red chiles or a pinch of cayenne pepper to taste. You may also want to add minced garlic (or garlic powder) to enhance the pungent garlic flavor.

This substitute works well in stir-fries, marinades, and as a dipping sauce for spring rolls or dumplings. Plus, with its familiar and versatile flavor, sweet chili sauce is a pantry staple that is easy to find in most grocery stores.

Related post: 10 Best sweet chili sauce substitutes

6. Spicy ketchup

A squeeze bottle of Heinz tomato ketchup.

Spicy ketchup is a versatile and readily available substitute for garlic chili sauce, making it a go-to option for those looking to add a kick to their dishes. With its combination of tangy sweetness and added spices, spicy ketchup offers a similar flavor profile to chili garlic sauce, with a touch less heat.

Add a teaspoon of minced garlic for every two tablespoons of spicy ketchup. To use regular ketchup as a substitute, simply mix in some hot sauce or ground cayenne pepper to create a spicy tomato sauce, adjusting the heat to taste.

This 1:1 swap is perfect for creating quick sauces, marinades, or as a condiment for burgers and fries.

7. Chiu chow chili sauce

If you need a chili garlic sauce substitute that offers a similar flavor profile and heat level, look no further than chiu chow chili sauce.

Originating from the Chiuchow region of China, this chili sauce is made from a blend of fresh chili peppers, Sichuan chili flakes, garlic, soy sauce, and oil. Its bold, spicy taste and chunky texture make it a great substitute for chili garlic sauce.

Chiu chow chili sauce is more savory compared to chili garlic sauce. Add half a teaspoon of white vinegar for every tablespoon of chiu chow sauce.

Whether used as a dipping sauce, marinade, or stir-fry ingredient, Chiuchow chili sauce is a versatile substitute that will add a kick of heat and garlic flavor to any dish.

We love this homemade chiu chow chili sauce recipe by The Woks of Life.

8. Taberu rayu

Taberu rayu is a popular Japanese condiment. It’s a versatile chili oil that can be used as a substitute for chili garlic sauce. Made with fried garlic, chili peppers, and sesame oil, it offers a similar spicy and garlicky flavor profile as chili garlic sauce.

To use Taberu Rayu as a substitute, simply mix it with a small amount of rice vinegar to add that familiar tang.

Taberu Rayu is also a great option for those happy with an oil-based substitute for chili garlic sauce. It’s perfect for drizzling over rice, noodles, or even pizza for a spicy kick.

We love the crunchy chili garlic oil recipe from Just One Cookbook.

9. Minced fresh chili

Minced fresh chili is a fantastic substitute for chili garlic sauce, as it offers the same spicy kick with a fresh twist. Plus, it’s probably the most accessible substitute.

Use the minced chiles as a substitute. Or, to make minced fresh chili sauce, simply chop fresh chili peppers and mix them with a bit of minced garlic, salt, and a splash of vinegar. You can also add in some sugar or honey for a touch of sweetness.

This substitute can be used in any recipe that calls for chili garlic sauce, and it’s a great option for those who prefer a fresher, less processed ingredient. It’s also a great way to use up any extra chili peppers you may have on hand.

So next time you’re in a pinch and don’t have any chili garlic sauce on hand, reach for minced fresh chili instead!

10. Red pepper flakes

If your recipe calls for chili garlic sauce and you find yourself without it, don’t fret! Red pepper flakes make for an excellent substitute that is likely already in your pantry.

Red pepper flakes are dried and crushed red chili peppers, offering a similar heat profile as chili garlic sauce. They’re already a great substitute as is. But, for an even closer flavor match, mix one teaspoon of red pepper flakes with one minced garlic clove, a pinch of salt a splash of rice vinegar.

This substitute is great in stir-fries, marinades, and sauces that call for chili garlic sauce. So, don’t hesitate to reach for the red pepper flakes when you’re in a pinch for chili garlic sauce.

11. Homemade chili garlic sauce

When it comes to spicy condiments, homemade chili garlic sauce is a versatile and flavorful substitute for store-bought chili garlic sauce.

Not only does homemade chili garlic sauce offer the same bold flavor profile as its commercial counterpart, but it also allows you to customize the heat level and consistency to your preference.

To make homemade chili garlic sauce, blend fresh red chilies and garlic with vinegar, sugar, and salt in a food processor to create a chunky chili garlic paste. Cook the mixture over low heat until thickened. And, just like that, you have a tangy, spicy, and garlicky sauce that’s even better than store-bought chili garlic sauce.

We love this homemade chili garlic sauce recipe by Chili Pepper Madness.

Not-so-great substitutes for chili garlic sauce

While exploring alternatives for chili garlic sauce, I came across a few commonly suggested substitutes that I won’t recommend.

The most prolific being harissa sauce. I adore this North African condiment, but the warm and fragrant flavor profile does not make a great substitute for Asian chili garlic sauce. While it’s undoubtedly delicious, you are better off simply substituting chili garlic sauce with freshly diced chilies and minced garlic.

I would further avoid condiments and sauces that contain fish sauce or other overpowering ingredients if you’re after a close flavor match for chili garlic sauce. But, if you’re happy with the umami twist (if a somewhat fishy twist too), go ahead and grab any Asian chili paste or chili sauce, and adjust it with a splash of vinegar and a pinch of sugar.

Frequently asked questions

Is Sriracha and chili garlic sauce the same?

No, Sriracha and chili garlic sauce are not the same. While they both contain chili peppers and garlic, they have different flavors and consistencies. Chili garlic sauce is thicker with a coarse texture and has a more intense garlic flavor, while Sriracha is thinner and smooth with a sweeter, more tangy taste.

What is a substitute for Huy Fong chili sauce?

If you can’t find Huy Fong chili sauce, you can use another brand of chili garlic sauce or make your own at home by cooking chili peppers, garlic, vinegar, and salt over low heat. Another great option is to use a combination of Sriracha and garlic paste to achieve a similar flavor.

What is a substitute for sambal chili garlic sauce?

A good substitute for sambal chili garlic sauce is a mixture of chili paste or chili flakes and minced garlic. You can also use a combination of Sriracha and garlic paste as a substitute.

What does chili garlic sauce taste like?

Chili garlic sauce has a strong and spicy flavor with a hint of sweetness and tanginess. The garlic adds a pungent and aromatic element to the sauce. Depending on the brand, the level of spiciness may vary, but it typically has a medium to hot level of heat.

Bottles of chili garlic sauce with a text overlay for pinterest.

I hope this list of chili garlic sauce substitutes gave you some ideas for your next recipe. Whether you’re looking for something spicy, tangy, or sweet, these substitutes are sure to add a kick of flavor to your dish.

So don’t let the lack of chili garlic sauce hold you back – try out one of these options and let your creativity shine in the kitchen. And, as always, let me know in the comments below which substitute you chose and how it turned out!

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