Replacement Ingredients
As I continue to collect recipes from my travels, I am not always able to find all the ingredients I need for a recipe. And depending on where I find myself when I am following the recipe I will have different ingredients available to me. I thought that it would be helpful for others if I started keeping a list of what I found works.
In general, the world is becoming more globalized, our taste palettes crave more diverse and international flavors. With so many different cultures and cuisines, it’s no wonder why we are having trouble finding key ingredients to make these dishes at home.
But don't worry, with a little bit of research and willingness to experiment, you can easily replace ingredients in your favorite international recipes. I will keep adding to my list but here are a few common ingredient replacements you can try:
1. Coconut milk instead of cream
If you’re looking to create a creamy and luxurious texture in your dishes but want to avoid dairy, coconut milk is a fantastic replacement for heavy cream. This vegan and lactose-free alternative works particularly well in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine to create rich curries and soups.
2. Tofu instead of meat
For those looking for protein- and nutrient-rich options without meat, tofu is an excellent replacement. It can be used in a variety of international dishes, like stir-fries, Mexican dishes, and even as a meat substitute in burgers.
3. Greek yogurt instead of sour cream
Greek yogurt can be an excellent replacement for sour cream in many dishes, particularly in Mediterranean cuisine. Its tangy flavor and creamy texture make it perfect as a dip or topping to bring out the flavors of the dish.
4. Vegetable broth instead of chicken broth
Vegetable broth is a great replacement for chicken broth for those following a plant-based diet or simply looking to reduce their meat consumption. It works well in soups, stews, and rice dishes, bringing a savory and aromatic flavor to the dish.
5. Rice paper instead of tortillas
If you’re looking to create a lighter and gluten-free wrap, rice paper is a great replacement for tortillas. Particularly in Vietnamese and Thai cuisine, rice paper wraps are a healthy and fresh option for summer rolls and spring rolls.
6. Tahini instead of peanut butter
Tahini is an excellent replacement for peanut butter, particularly in Middle Eastern cuisine. It adds a nutty and savory flavor to dishes like hummus, and works well as a marinade for grilled meats and vegetables.
By experimenting with these ingredient replacements, you can bring the flavors of the world to your kitchen without the hassle of finding specialty ingredients.
