Substitute for Shichimi Togarashi: 3 Smart Options
The best substitute for shichimi togarashi is Red Pepper Flakes (Chili Flakes) at a Use 50% ratio. There are 2 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Red Pepper Flakes (Chili Flakes)
Use 50%
Red Pepper Flakes (Chili Flakes) works as a substitute for shichimi togarashi in many recipes. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What are the other substitutes for shichimi togarashi?
Black Pepper + Paprika + Red Pepper Flakes
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Black Pepper + Paprika + Red Pepper Flakes in place of shichimi togarashi when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It still gives the dish useful savory depth. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
Cayenne Pepper + Sesame Seeds + Orange Zest
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Cayenne Pepper + Sesame Seeds + Orange Zest in place of shichimi togarashi when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
What should you know before substituting shichimi togarashi?
Red Pepper Flakes (Chili Flakes) is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to shichimi togarashi in everyday cooking. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Potency varies a lot with dried spices and herbs, so taste as you go instead of making the full adjustment at once.
How do you substitute shichimi togarashi in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for shichimi togarashi and you need an alternative, there are 3 tested substitutes available. Red Pepper Flakes (Chili Flakes) is the best overall replacement, used at a Use 50% ratio. The right substitute depends on the role shichimi togarashi plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for shichimi togarashi depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Red Pepper Flakes (Chili Flakes) (Use 50%), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Black Pepper + Paprika + Red Pepper Flakes (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. You can use Black Pepper + Paprika + Red Pepper Flakes in place of shichimi togarashi when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It still gives the dish useful savory depth. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
When substituting shichimi togarashi, 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 Shichimi Togarashi?
Red Pepper Flakes (Chili Flakes) is the best place to start for shichimi togarashi. Use 50% 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 Shichimi Togarashi?
This page lists 3 substitutes for shichimi togarashi. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.