Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of lemon juice?

Lime juice, Cream of tartar + water and White wine (small amounts) are the easiest swaps. Below: 5 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

The quick answer

Lime juice. Use the same amount. Slightly sweeter acid.

Adjust: Direct swap — flavor slightly different.

Lime juice
Drop-in swap

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Slightly sweeter acid.

Flavor
Lime vs lemon.

Texture
Same.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Direct swap — flavor slightly different.

Best for
Any recipe

vegan
Cream of tartar + water
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

1 tsp cream of tartar dissolved in 1 tbsp water.

Flavor
Sour, neutral.

Texture
Same.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Dissolve completely.

Best for
Any baking, Stabilizing egg whites

vegan
White wine (small amounts)
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Adds acid + flavor. Use in savory.

Flavor
Wine + acid.

Texture
Same.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Cook off alcohol. Use half-and-half with vinegar.

Best for
Pan sauces, Deglazing
White vinegar (use half)
Small adjustment

Use ½ of the amount (ratio 1:2)

Stronger acid — use half the amount.

Flavor
Neutral acid — no citrus.

Texture
Same.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Dilute with water if very acidic.

Best for
Baking, Marinades

vegan
Citric acid (tiny pinch)
Technique swap

Use 1/96 of the amount (ratio 1:96)

Very concentrated. Use 1/8 tsp per 1/4 cup juice.

Flavor
Sour, no citrus flavor.

Texture
Same.

Moisture
None — add to recipe liquid.

Adjust
Use very sparingly.

Best for
Canning, S herbet, Lemonade

vegan

Common questions

What is the best substitute for lemon juice?

Lime juice is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Slightly sweeter acid.

What is a vegan substitute for lemon juice?

Good vegan options are Lime juice, Cream of tartar + water, White vinegar (use half) and Citric acid (tiny pinch).

How much should I use instead of lemon juice?

It depends on the swap. Lime juice: Use the same amount. Cream of tartar + water: Use the same amount. White wine (small amounts): Use the same amount.