Substitute for Beer: 3 Smart Options
The best substitute for beer is Red Wine at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 2 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Red Wine
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Red Wine in place of beer when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in stews.
What are the other substitutes for beer?
Beef Broth
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Beef Broth in place of beer when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in stews.
Malted Barley Powder/Malt Extract
Use 25%
Malted Barley Powder/Malt Extract is a workable stand-in for beer. Use 25% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than beer, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
What should you know before substituting beer?
Red Wine is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to beer in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Think about what the original contributes, acidity, sweetness, aroma, or depth, before choosing a replacement.
How do you substitute beer in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for beer and you need an alternative, there are 3 tested substitutes available. Red Wine is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role beer plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for beer depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Red Wine (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Beef Broth (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. You can use Beef Broth in place of beer when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in stews.
When substituting beer, 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
What is the best substitute for Beer?
Red Wine is the best place to start for beer. Use a 1:1 swap and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Beer?
This page lists 3 substitutes for beer. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.