Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of hot sauce?

Cayenne pepper + vinegar, Red pepper flakes + vinegar and Sriracha are the easiest swaps. Below: 4 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

The quick answer

Cayenne pepper + vinegar. Use the same amount. Mix 1/4 tsp cayenne + vinegar to thin.

Adjust: Start small — cayenne is potent.

Cayenne pepper + vinegar
Drop-in swap

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Mix 1/4 tsp cayenne + vinegar to thin.

Flavor
Heat.

Texture
Liquid.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Start small — cayenne is potent.

Best for
Any recipe

vegan
Red pepper flakes + vinegar
Drop-in swap

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Infuse flakes in vinegar 30 min.

Flavor
Same.

Texture
Same base.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Strain if smooth texture needed.

Best for
Any recipe

vegan
Sriracha
Drop-in swap

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Garlicky, sweet heat.

Flavor
Garlic, sweet heat.

Texture
Smooth.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Reduce sugar slightly if recipe has sugar.

Best for
Any recipe

vegan
Gochujang + vinegar
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Korean chili paste. Thicker, sweeter.

Flavor
Sweet-spicy-fermented.

Texture
Much thicker.

Moisture
Less.

Adjust
Thin with water/vinegar to desired consistency.

Best for
Korean dishes, Marinades

vegan

Common questions

What is the best substitute for hot sauce?

Cayenne pepper + vinegar is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Mix 1/4 tsp cayenne + vinegar to thin.

What is a vegan substitute for hot sauce?

Good vegan options are Cayenne pepper + vinegar, Red pepper flakes + vinegar, Sriracha and Gochujang + vinegar.

How much should I use instead of hot sauce?

It depends on the swap. Cayenne pepper + vinegar: Use the same amount. Red pepper flakes + vinegar: Use the same amount. Sriracha: Use the same amount.