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The Best Homemade Bouillon Substitute

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This bouillon substitute is a great option for anyone on a vegetarian diet, watching sodium content, or just craving rich flavor without relying on chicken bones or meat products. It brings rich taste and a depth of flavor to homemade broth.  Try it, love it, and never go back to store-bought again!

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Bouillon Substitute

If you’re looking for a great substitute for traditional chicken bouillon cubes because you’re cutting back on animal products, or you’re avoiding too much salt, or want something with incredible flavor, this homemade bouillon powder is a great way to upgrade your cooking.

This vegetable bouillon powder recipe is one of the top homemade spice blends at Intentionally Eat—and for good reason!


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Why Make Your Own Bouillon Substitute?

  • Control the salt level
  • Avoiding additives in store-bought chicken bouillon powder
  • Adjusting the overall flavor profile to your personal preferences
  • Skipping meat products while still capturing that savory flavor

Plus, this recipe keeps well in an airtight container for months!

glass jar with bouillon substitute with measuring spoon
Homemade Bouillon Substitute

Ingredients

  • Nutritional yeast (not to be confused with brewer’s yeast). It adds incredible flavor, amino acids, and it’s a complete protein. 
  • Onion powder
  • Dried parsley
  • Turmeric
  • Thyme
  • Celery seed
  • White pepper
vegetable bouillon powder in a glass jar
Bouillon substitute powder

How to Make This Bouillon Substitute Recipe

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make this easy bouillon powder:

Step 1: Blend the Base

Step 2: Taste and Adjust

Give your powder a taste! Add salt if desired, more herbs, or add a small amount more nutritional yeast for more amazing flavor. 

Step 3: Store It Right

Transfer your blend to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place. For best results, use within 1–2 months. Shake before each use.




How to Use Your Homemade Bouillon Powder

Use 1 tablespoon of powder + 1 cup of hot water to make a cup of broth. This is a good substitute for:

  • Chicken bouillon powder
  • Chicken bouillon cubes
  • Bouillon cube substitute
  • Even beef bouillon substitutes or beef stock (just add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce (make sure it’s vegan) or soy sauce for a beef broth substitute. 

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The Best Homemade Bouillon Substitute

This bouillon substitute is a great option for anyone on a vegetarian diet, watching sodium content, or just craving rich flavor without relying on chicken bones or meat products. It brings rich taste and a depth of flavor to homemade broth.  Try it, love it, and never go back to store-bought again!
Course Seasoning
Cuisine American
Diet Low Salt, Vegan, Vegetarian
Keyword bouillon substitute
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 12 Tablespoons
Calories 41kcal
Author Cindy Newland with Intentionally Eat

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
  • 1 Tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 Tbsp onion powder
  • 1 Tbsp dried parsley
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp tomato powder
  • 1/2 tsp celery seed
  • 1/4 tsp ground white pepper

Instructions

  • Blend: Add all ingredients to a clean, dry spice grinder or food processor. Pulse until the mixture becomes a fine powder. 
  • Taste & Adjust: Taste the powder and if desired, add salt, more herbs, or add a small amount more nutritional yeast.
  • Store: Transfer your blend to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place. For best results, use within 1–2 months. Shake before each use.

Notes

Nutritional Information is only an estimate. The accuracy of this recipe may differ depending on the ingredients you use.
 
TIP: This mix makes about 3/4 cup of seasoning. Add 1 Tablespoon to 1 Cup of hot water for 1 cup of broth.
 
Ways to Use Your Bouillon Substitute
 
  • A quick vegetable broth or sipping broth
     
  • The base for soups and stews
     
  • Sprinkle the bouillon powder over cubed tofu before air frying, use it as a broth to reheat TVP for tacos, or flavor seitan.
     
  • Sprinkle on roasted vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or peppers
     
  • Use it to cook grains like quinoa, rice, or farro
     
  • Flavor Instant Pot Fajitas 
     
  • Toss with oil on potato wedges or fries before roasting
     
  • Use as a seasoning for sautéed greens or beans

Nutrition

Serving: 1Tablespoon | Calories: 41kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 3g

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Although Cindy has lost 125 pounds, her path to success was not easy. Go here to read her incredible story, “From Morbidly Obese to Losing 125 Pounds and Becoming a Health Coach.” If you want to send Cindy a quick message, visit her contact page here.

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I hope you enjoyed this homemade bouillon substitute recipe and that you found it delicious!

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Cindy Newland with Intentionally Eat
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​Disclaimer: Please note that I am not a medical professional. The information provided on this blog is based on my personal experiences and research as a vegan recipe enthusiast. While I strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or a registered dietitian before making any significant changes to your diet, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns. The recipes and tips shared on this blog are meant for general informational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always prioritize your health and well-being by seeking personalized guidance from a qualified healthcare provider.

About the Author

Cindy Newland is the founder of Intentionally Eat and has been eating a whole food, plant-based alkaline diet since 2010. In that time she has lost 125 pounds, reversed high blood pressure she was diagnosed with before age 30, and has spent over 15 years cooking and refining plant-based meals in her own kitchen. Cindy is not a registered dietitian. What she is is someone who has lived inside every frustration this way of eating can bring — the social awkwardness, the cravings, the meals that didn't work — and figured out what actually sticks for the long term. The recipes and meal plans on this site come from her real experience, not from textbooks. She writes specifically for women over 40 who are tired of diets that require perfection and want a way of eating they can actually keep.

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