Substitute for Chili Bean Sauce: 5 Smart Options
The best substitute for chili bean sauce is Gochujang (Korean Red Chili Paste) at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 4 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Gochujang (Korean Red Chili Paste)
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Gochujang (Korean Red Chili Paste) in place of chili bean sauce when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It can make the dish saltier than the original ingredient, so hold back on extra seasoning until the end. It still gives the dish useful savory depth. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
What are the other substitutes for chili bean sauce?
Chili bean paste (doubanjiang, fermented, no oil)
Same amount (1:1)
Chili bean paste (doubanjiang, fermented, no oil) works as a substitute for chili bean sauce in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It still gives the dish useful savory depth. Texture runs thicker than the original, so a splash of liquid may help in thinner preparations. Texture runs looser than the original, which matters most in baking and creamy sauces. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
Chili bean sauce concentrate (bottled thick version)
Use 75%
Chili bean sauce concentrate (bottled thick version) works as a substitute for chili bean sauce in many recipes. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than chili bean sauce, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. Texture runs thicker than the original, so a splash of liquid may help in thinner preparations. Texture runs looser than the original, which matters most in baking and creamy sauces. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
Chili bean sauce in tube/pouch (shelf-stable portions)
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Chili bean sauce in tube/pouch (shelf-stable portions) in place of chili bean sauce when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in sauces.
Sambal Oelek (Ground Chili Paste)
Same amount (1:1)
Sambal Oelek (Ground Chili Paste) is a workable stand-in for chili bean sauce. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It still gives the dish useful savory depth. It is especially useful in sauces.
What should you know before substituting chili bean sauce?
Gochujang (Korean Red Chili Paste) is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to chili bean sauce in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Salt, sweetness, and acidity can swing quickly here, so make the swap and then fine-tune to taste.
How do you substitute chili bean sauce in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for chili bean sauce and you need an alternative, there are 5 tested substitutes available. Gochujang (Korean Red Chili Paste) is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role chili bean sauce plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for chili bean sauce depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Gochujang (Korean Red Chili Paste) (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Chili bean paste (doubanjiang, fermented, no oil) (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. Chili bean paste (doubanjiang, fermented, no oil) works as a substitute for chili bean sauce in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It still gives the dish useful savory depth. Texture runs thicker than the original, so a splash of liquid may help in thinner preparations. Texture runs looser than the original, which matters most in baking and creamy sauces. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
When substituting chili bean sauce, 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 Chili Bean Sauce?
Gochujang (Korean Red Chili Paste) is the best place to start for chili bean sauce. 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 Chili Bean Sauce?
This page lists 5 substitutes for chili bean sauce. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.
What is a vegan substitute for Chili Bean Sauce?
Gochujang (Korean Red Chili Paste) is a good vegan option for chili bean sauce. Start with a 1:1 swap and fine-tune after tasting.