Ingredient substitution guide
Best substitutes for sriracha
Best swap for sriracha: Sambal oelek, 1:1; less sweet, slightly chunkier.
How we checked this: these swaps come from the substitution list Well Stockd uses to match recipes, and their ratios follow ordinary kitchen practice rather than one published chart. For exact amounts on many common swaps, see the NDSU and Colorado State University extension tables listed below. Editorial policy
What can I use instead of Sriracha?
The best swap for Sriracha is Sambal Oelek, 1:1; less sweet, slightly chunkier. Another option is Chili Garlic Sauce, 1:1; very close flavor profile. The table below also lists Gochujang Thinned with Vinegar, Hot Sauce with A Pinch of Sugar and Garlic Powder and Harissa, 5 swaps in all.
| Swap | Ratio and notes |
|---|---|
| Sambal oelek | 1:1; less sweet, slightly chunkier |
| Chili garlic sauce | 1:1; very close flavor profile |
| Gochujang thinned with vinegar | 1 tbsp gochujang with 1 tsp rice vinegar per tablespoon of sriracha; sweeter and fermented rather than garlicky |
| Hot sauce with a pinch of sugar and garlic powder | 1 tbsp hot sauce, a pinch of sugar and 1/8 tsp garlic powder; this rebuilds sriracha's sweetness and garlic |
| Harissa | use about two thirds; smokier and earthier from the cumin and caraway |
Source and limits
These swaps come from the substitution list Well Stockd uses to match recipes to your kitchen, last updated . We remove swaps known to be unsafe, but not every swap has been tested in a kitchen, and a swap is cooking guidance, not an allergen or nutrition equivalent. Check labels and what the recipe needs before substituting.
The ratios and usage notes follow ordinary kitchen practice rather than a single published chart. These two university extension tables list exact amounts for many common swaps:
- Ingredient Substitutions (FN198), NDSU Extension (opens in a new tab)
- Ingredient Substitutions (9.329), Colorado State University Extension (opens in a new tab)
Browse every ingredient and read how these swaps are sourced.