Anchovy Paste Substitutes: 5 Best Umami Alternatives
The best substitute for anchovy paste is Canned Anchovy Fillets (mashed) at a 2 anchovy fillets mashed = 1 tsp anchovy paste ratio. It works best for Caesar dressing, pasta sauces, pizza. There are 4 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Canned Anchovy Fillets (mashed)
2 anchovy fillets mashed = 1 tsp anchovy paste
The most direct substitute: it is essentially the same product in whole form. Mash with a fork until smooth. Drain excess oil before mashing.
What are the other substitutes for anchovy paste?
Fish Sauce
1/2 tsp fish sauce = 1 tsp anchovy paste
Both are fermented fish products providing similar umami. Fish sauce is thinner and more pungent. Start with less and adjust to taste.
Worcestershire Sauce
1 tsp Worcestershire = 1 tsp anchovy paste
Contains anchovies among other ingredients, providing similar umami with added tangy complexity. Thinner consistency and milder fish flavor.
Miso Paste
1 tbsp white miso = 1 tsp anchovy paste
Fermented soybean paste provides rich umami without fish. Use white (shiro) miso for mildest flavor. The best vegan substitute for umami depth.
Capers + Soy Sauce
1 tsp minced capers + 1/2 tsp soy sauce = 1 tsp anchovy paste
Capers provide briny saltiness while soy sauce adds umami. Good vegetarian option for pasta dishes and dressings where both flavors are welcome.
What should you know before substituting anchovy paste?
Anchovy paste dissolves when heated, adding invisible umami depth to sauces and stews. Even people who dislike anchovies often enjoy dishes made with anchovy paste because the fish flavor melts into the background. Start with a small amount and build up.
How do you substitute anchovy paste in a recipe?
A concentrated paste made from ground anchovies, salt, and oil, delivering intense umami and briny depth. Anchovy paste is used in Caesar dressing, puttanesca sauce, compound butters, and as a secret flavor enhancer in many savory dishes.
The best substitute for anchovy paste depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Canned Anchovy Fillets (mashed) (2 anchovy fillets mashed = 1 tsp anchovy paste), which works well for Caesar dressing, pasta sauces, pizza.
If you need a different option, Fish Sauce (1/2 tsp fish sauce = 1 tsp anchovy paste) is another reliable choice. Both are fermented fish products providing similar umami. Fish sauce is thinner and more pungent. Start with less and adjust to taste.
When substituting anchovy paste, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute fish sauce for anchovy paste?
Yes, use 1/2 teaspoon of fish sauce for every 1 teaspoon of anchovy paste. Both are fermented fish products with intense umami. Fish sauce is thinner and more pungent, so start with less.
What is a vegan substitute for anchovy paste?
White miso paste (1 tablespoon per teaspoon of anchovy paste) is the best vegan substitute, providing rich fermented umami. You can also use minced capers with soy sauce for briny depth.
How much anchovy paste equals one anchovy fillet?
About 1/2 teaspoon of anchovy paste equals one anchovy fillet. A standard 2-ounce tube of anchovy paste is equivalent to roughly 10-12 anchovy fillets.