3 Best Substitutes for Garlic Cloves – Easy Alternatives!

Garlic is a staple ingredient in many dishes, but what happens when you’re out of fresh cloves? Whether you’re looking for a quick fix or a long-term alternative to garlic cloves, there are plenty of flavorful substitutes that can save your recipe.

Key Takeaways

• Garlic powder, granulated garlic, and garlic salt are the closest substitutes for fresh cloves.
• Herbs and spices like cumin and asafoetida work in specific dishes.
• Onions, shallots, and chives provide a similar aromatic depth.
• Dorot Gardens Frozen Garlic offers a convenient, pre-portioned alternative.
• Roasted vegetables and umami-rich ingredients can enhance flavors without garlic.
• Homemade garlic oil can serve as a subtle alternative in cooking.
• Coconut aminos and mustard powder provide a sharp, tangy depth in garlic-free recipes.
• Garlic-infused butter is another great way to achieve a garlicky flavor without raw cloves.
• Fennel bulbs and leeks add depth and mild sweetness to dishes without overpowering them.
• Horseradish and mustard seeds work well in marinades and dressings for a punchy flavor.

Best Substitute for Garlic Cloves in Cooking

When you need an easy replacement, try these top choices:

1. Garlic Powder or Granulated Garlic

• Closest match to fresh garlic flavor
• Use 1/4 teaspoon per garlic clove

2. Garlic Salt

• Contains both garlic and salt—adjust seasoning accordingly
• Use 1/2 teaspoon per garlic clove

3. Dorot Gardens Frozen Garlic

• No peeling or chopping required
• Pre-measured cubes equal one fresh clove

Herbal and Vegetable Alternatives

For a milder alternative to garlic cloves, consider these herbal and vegetable substitutes:

• Onion or Shallots – Offer a similar savory depth; use 1 tablespoon per clove
• Chives – Provide a subtle garlicky taste, ideal for garnishes
• Leeks – Great for soups and stews, use 2 tablespoons per clove
• Scallions – Packs a fresh onion-garlic hybrid flavor
• Fennel Bulbs – Slightly sweet, aromatic, and excellent in roasted dishes
• Celery and carrot puree – Works well in soups and stews for added depth

Cooking Hacks for Garlic-Free Flavor

If you’re avoiding garlic entirely, here are a few ways to build rich flavors:

• Slow-roast vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and carrots to enhance sweetness and depth.
• Use miso paste to add umami complexity to soups and sauces.
• Sauté mushrooms for a rich, earthy taste that mimics garlic’s depth.
• Make garlic-infused oil for a subtle flavor boost without actual garlic pieces.
• Garlic-infused butter – Melt butter with whole garlic cloves, then remove before serving.
• Try lemon zest – A bright and tangy alternative in Mediterranean-style dishes.
• Add nutritional yeast for a subtle savory kick in dressings and dips.ol.

Spices That Work as an Alternative to Garlic Cloves

If you’re looking to replace garlic due to dietary needs, try these:

• Asafoetida – A pungent spice used in Indian cuisine; use a pinch per clove. Has an onion-garlic flavor, making it a great substitute for garlic cloves.
• Cumin – Adds warmth and depth to dishes like chili and curries
• Mustard Powder – A sharp bite that mimics garlic’s intensity
• Smoked Paprika – Brings a hint of smoky, garlicky undertones
• Fennel Seeds – Provide a slightly sweet, anise-like flavor that complements savory dishes
• Horseradish – Brings a bold, spicy kick to marinades and dips
• Coriander Powder – A mild, nutty flavor that blends well with other spicesrlic locks in freshness and lasts up to 2 years in your freezer. Perfect for busy cooks!

Best Garlic-Free Store-Bought Options

For those with allergies or sensitivities, there are garlic-free seasonings available:

• Garlic-Free Herb Blends – A mix of thyme, rosemary, marjoram, oregano, and lavender (sometimes basil or tarragon).
• Dorot Gardens Frozen Herbs – Pre-portioned herbs like basil and cilantro
• Miso Paste – Offers umami depth in marinades and soups
• Coconut Aminos – A soy-free, savory alternative for sauces and dressings
• Garlic-Free Hot Sauce – Adds heat and complexity without garlic
• Nutritional Yeast – Brings a subtle umami richness without overpowering dishes