Substitute for Rice Syrup (Jocheong): 4 Smart Options
The best substitute for rice syrup (jocheong) is Honey at a Use 75% ratio. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Honey
Use 75%
Honey works as a substitute for rice syrup (jocheong) in many recipes. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. 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.
What are the other substitutes for rice syrup (jocheong)?
Agave Nectar
Same amount (1:1)
Agave Nectar is a workable stand-in for rice syrup (jocheong). Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Brown Rice Syrup
Same amount (1:1)
Brown Rice Syrup works as a substitute for rice syrup (jocheong) in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. 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.
White Sugar + Water
Use 75%
White Sugar + Water is a workable stand-in for rice syrup (jocheong). Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
What should you know before substituting rice syrup (jocheong)?
Honey is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to rice syrup (jocheong) in everyday cooking. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Choose the substitute that gets you closest in flavor, texture, and ease of use.
How do you substitute rice syrup (jocheong) in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for rice syrup (jocheong) and you need an alternative, there are 4 tested substitutes available. Honey is the best overall replacement, used at a Use 75% ratio. The right substitute depends on the role rice syrup (jocheong) plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for rice syrup (jocheong) depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Honey (Use 75%), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Agave Nectar (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. Agave Nectar is a workable stand-in for rice syrup (jocheong). Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
When substituting rice syrup (jocheong), 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. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Rice Syrup (Jocheong)?
Honey is the best place to start for rice syrup (jocheong). Use 75% of the original amount and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Rice Syrup (Jocheong)?
This page lists 4 substitutes for rice syrup (jocheong). The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.