Best Substitutes For Beef Bouillon So You Never Lack Flavor

Whether you are cooking up a comforting soup or making a classic spaghetti bolognese, you always need to include a Beef Bouillon. 

These tiny cubes or small pastes are filled with an umami flavor that is meaty, smoky, and utterly delicious. It is most commonly used for soups and stews but it works in a wide variety of dishes. 

Now, if you are cooking up a beef stew and suddenly realize that you don’t have any Beef Bouillon in the cupboard, don’t panic. We have 5 of the best substitutes for Beef Bouillon. 

Below are the greatest substitutes for Beef Bouillon such as Chicken Broth, Beer, and Red Wine. You are sure to have at least one of the substitutes in your home that will have your dish tasting glorious. 

5 Best Substitutes For Beef Bouillon 

What Does Beef Bouillon Taste Like? 

Beef Bouillon is a wonderful cooking agent that gives your dish a rich, meaty flavor that helps enhance the natural flavors in your dish. 

It often comes in a small cube, powder, or as a paste which is then added to boiling water until it dissolves. Unleashing all of its tasty goodness into your dish. 

Now, we do not recommend trying Beef Bouillon in its raw form. While you can, it is not going to be pleasant. 

Beef Bouillon is most commonly used in soups, stews, and sauces to add depth and flavor. It also adds a nice saltiness that is naturally found in different meats. 

This is one ingredient that you always want to have in your arsenal. However, if you forget to pick some up at the store we have got you covered. Below are 5 of the best substitutes for Beef Bouillon that you are going to love!

Nutritional Value Of Beef Boullion 

Beef Bouillon Substitutes 

1. Chicken Broth 

One of the best ingredients for substituting Beef Bouillon is Chicken Broth. Made from the bones of the chicken, it is full of flavor that adds warmth and flavor to any dish. 

It has a slightly sweeter taste compared to Beef Bouillon but it is just as rich and gorgeous. Chicken Broth is most commonly used in soups and stews as it helps bring everything together. 

Another great way to use Chicken Broth is in place of water for foods such as rice and pasta. It adds a natural saltiness that table salt just won’t provide. 

While not as thick or gelatinous as beef broth, chicken broth has a comparable feel.

You might need to add more water to thin out beef bouillon when using chicken broth in its place.

2. Beer

Beer is a gorgeous secret in the culinary world. While it offers a refreshing reprieve after a long day at work, it also works perfectly as a Beef Bouillon alternative. 

Beer offers a rich, slightly bitter taste when cooking. It adds a rich flavor to batters that are gorgeous when deep-fried. 

When using Beer as a substitute for Beef Bouillon it is important to start small and work your way up. Otherwise, the flavors can become intense and overpower the entire dish. 

Use the same amount of beer as you would Beef Bouillon, adding water if you feel it is becoming too thick or strong in flavor. 

3. Beef Bone Broth 

Similar to Chicken Broth, Beef Bone Broth is an excellent alternative to Beef Bouillon. This is made by simmering the bones of a beef carcass that draws out all of the natural salt and flavors. 

Beef Bone Broth holds a savory flavor that is extremely rich and full of protein. It works great in soups, sauces, and stews providing an almost traditional flavor. 

You can find Beef Bone Broth in the store or make it at home, store it in a glass jar, and store it in the refrigerator. It is a much more cost-effective ingredient than Beef Bouillon and leaves much less waste. 

When using Beef Bone Broth be sure to have the same amount as you would Beef Bouillon to avoid the dish from becoming too thick. It can quickly change in texture which may alter the entire dish. 

4. Red Wine 

Cooking with wine is sometimes one of the best things about cooking. So, make sure to pour yourself a glass when using Red Wine in place of Beef Bouillon. 

If you have ever tasted Red Wine then you will know exactly why it is on this list of substitutes. Red Wine has an incredibly rich and intense flavor. And depending on which wine you use, it can be bitter or more fruity. 

When cooking with Red Wine it is important to allow all of the alcohol to cook off before serving. This can take some time and it may even need some water to mellow out the flavors. 

5. Soy Sauce 

Soy Sauce is known for being high in sodium and offers an incredible salty, savory flavor. While this is incredible for soups and stews, it can quickly overpower the dish if you use too much too quickly. 

A great way to control the intensity of Soy Sauce is to mix it with a cup of warm water. Begin with 2 teaspoons before adding in more to get the strength that you want. 

Popular Recipes That Call For Beef Bouillon 

Pho

Pho is a traditional Vietnamese dish that is similar to ramen. It is extremely rich in flavor and is the perfect dish for bringing comfort and peace to any meal. 

There are endless ways to make Pho but the important part is getting that rich, savory broth perfect. And the best way to do it is with Beef Bouillon. 

Easy Beef Stew 

Beef Stew is the perfect way to get everyone around the dinner table and enjoy a comforting meal. Filled with veggies and tender beef that are all consumed with a rich, savory gravy. 

Serve with a slice of crusty bread for the perfect winter meal. 

Beef Broth Vegetable Soup 

A warm bowl of soup filled with soft vegetables and flavored with a base of rich beef broth or stock is all you need when the weather turns chilly. 

This is ideal for meal prep and can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. 

Final Thoughts 

Beef Bouillon is a staple in any kitchen. From the home cook to the professional chef, Beef Bouillons are essential. 

Adding just one Beef Bouillon cube to your dish can add a layer of flavor that you can’t get from any other ingredients. 

Above are 5 of the best substitutes that you can use when you discover you are out of Beef Bouillon. From Chicken Broth to Soy Sauce, you are sure to find at least one of these guys already in your kitchen. 

Your dish will never be lacking flavor or depth when you use any one of these alternatives.