Anchovy paste is a concentrated seasoning made from ground anchovies, salt, and oil, often used to add a salty, umami punch to recipes. It’s a key ingredient in Caesar dressing, pasta sauces, marinades, and stews.
If you’re out of anchovy paste or need a substitute, several alternatives can replicate its salty and savory flavor while keeping your dish flavorful.
What Is Anchovy Paste?
Anchovy paste is a thick, intensely flavored condiment made by blending anchovies with oil and salt. Its concentrated umami flavor adds depth to many dishes without overwhelming them. It’s commonly used in small amounts, as even a tiny dollop can elevate sauces, dressings, and marinades.
4 Substitutes for Anchovy Paste
1. Anchovy Fillets
Mashing anchovy fillets with olive oil is the most direct substitute for anchovy paste. To replace anchovy paste, blend the fillets with a small amount of olive oil until you have a smooth consistency.
For small servings, you could also mash the fillets with a fork with a small drizzle of olive oil. Fillets bring the exact same flavor and work well in every recipe that calls for anchovy paste.
Recipes: Direct substitute to recipes that call for anchovy paste.
2. Miso Paste
Miso paste is a fermented soybean paste that provides a vegan alternative to anchovy paste. Its rich umami flavor brings depth to recipes, though it lacks the salty, fishy undertones.
Use white or yellow miso for a milder substitution or red miso for a stronger, earthier flavor. Combine miso with a pinch of salt for a closer match and use it as a 1:1 substitute in sauces or marinades.
Recipes: Direct vegan substitute to recipes that call for anchovy paste.
3. Fish Sauce
Fish sauce is made from fermented fish and is a liquid alternative to anchovy paste. It provides a similar salty, umami depth but is much stronger and more concentrated.
Use it sparingly, starting with about 1/4 teaspoon for every 1/2 teaspoon of anchovy paste. Fish sauce is particularly useful in liquid-based recipes like soups, stews, or pasta sauces.
Recipes: Best for soups, broths, and marinades.
4. Worcestershire Sauce
Worcestershire sauce is a fermented condiment that includes anchovies as one of its key ingredients, making it a great substitute for anchovy paste in recipes requiring liquid seasoning. Its tangy, slightly sweet flavor complements sauces and marinades.
Recipes: Perfect for salad dressings, marinades, and meat dishes.
Tips for Using Substitutes
- Match Saltiness: Anchovy paste is very salty, so adjust the salt in your recipe when using milder substitutes like miso paste.
- Use Sparingly: Substitutes like fish sauce and Worcestershire sauce are highly concentrated in flavor. Start with small amounts and adjust to taste to ensure the seasoning doesn’t overwhelm the dish.