Substitute for Doenjang: 4 Smart Options
The best substitute for doenjang is Miso Paste (red or Barley) at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Miso Paste (red or Barley)
Same amount (1:1)
Miso Paste (red or Barley) is a workable stand-in for doenjang. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It still gives the dish useful savory depth. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
What are the other substitutes for doenjang?
Chickpea Miso
Same amount (1:1)
Chickpea Miso is a workable stand-in for doenjang. 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.
Salty Miso + Extra Soy Sauce
Same amount (1:1)
Salty Miso + Extra Soy Sauce works as a substitute for doenjang in many recipes. 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 is especially useful in baking and sauces.
Tahini + Soy Sauce + Garlic
Same amount (1:1)
Tahini + Soy Sauce + Garlic works as a substitute for doenjang in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It still gives the dish useful savory depth. It is especially useful in sauces. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
What should you know before substituting doenjang?
Miso Paste (red or Barley) is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to doenjang 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. If gluten matters, Chickpea Miso keeps the swap in safer territory for gluten-free cooking.
How do you substitute doenjang in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for doenjang and you need an alternative, there are 4 tested substitutes available. Miso Paste (red or Barley) is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role doenjang plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for doenjang depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Miso Paste (red or Barley) (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Chickpea Miso (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. Chickpea Miso is a workable stand-in for doenjang. 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.
When substituting doenjang, 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 Doenjang?
Miso Paste (red or Barley) is the best place to start for doenjang. 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 Doenjang?
This page lists 4 substitutes for doenjang. 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 Doenjang?
Miso Paste (red or Barley) is a good vegan option for doenjang. Start with a 1:1 swap and fine-tune after tasting.