Garlic Substitutes
The Complete Guide to Garlic Substitutes (Vegan, Easy & Full of Flavour)
Whether you’re avoiding peeling garlic, dealing with burnt garlic, cooking for someone with dietary needs, or simply want faster flavour, this guide shows you the best garlic substitutes to use in everyday cooking — and when to choose each one.
This hub covers everything from replacing minced garlic to finding the perfect dairy-free garlic butter alternative. It’s designed for anyone who wants reliable garlic flavour without the hassle.
Why people look for garlic substitutes
Traditional garlic can be fiddly, inconsistent, or time-consuming:
- Peeling and chopping takes time
- Raw garlic can burn instantly and turn bitter
- Jars and pastes often contain preservatives and sour vinegar notes
- Dairy-based garlic butter isn’t suitable for vegans or those avoiding dairy
- Garlic bulbs vary in strength — you never know how strong they’ll be
That’s why many home cooks — especially busy families — now use garlic spreads and garlic alternatives that give consistent flavour with no effort.
The best substitute for minced garlic
The closest, most convenient alternative is a stoneground garlic spread like spred 60%, which delivers the flavour of fresh garlic without peeling or chopping.
Conversion guide:
1 teaspoon of spred 60% ≈ 1 medium garlic clove
Because the garlic is cold-stoneground, it gives a fresh aroma and balanced heat — and it doesn’t burn as easily as raw garlic.
Read the full minced garlic substitute guide →
Garlic paste vs garlic spread: which should you use?
Garlic paste
- Often contains acidifiers (vinegar/lemon)
- Can taste sharp or sour
- Burns easily in hot oil
Garlic spread (like spred)
- Smoother, creamier and easier to stir in
- Balanced flavour and heat
- More forgiving under high heat
- Vegan and dairy-free
- Can replace garlic butter, garlic paste and fresh garlic
Garlic paste vs garlic spread →
The best garlic butter alternative (dairy-free & plant-based)
Many people look for a garlic butter replacement because they’re vegan, dairy-free, or want a healthier option with less saturated fat.
spred 40% is a plant-based garlic butter alternative made with:
- Vegetable oils (rapeseed, sunflower, linseed)
- Fresh cold-stoneground garlic
- Parsley
- No dairy, gluten or preservatives
It spreads straight from the fridge — perfect for garlic bread, potatoes and pasta.
Garlic butter vs garlic spread →
When to use each garlic substitute
| Dish | Best Substitute | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic bread | spred 40% | Balanced flavour + smooth spreadability |
| Pasta / gnocchi | spred 40% | Melts into a garlic sauce instantly |
| Stir-fries | spred 60% | Strong flavour that won’t burn |
| Roast meats / veg | spred 60% | Bold garlic heat for marinades |
| Sandwiches / toasties | spred 20% | Smoother, more subtle flavour |
| Family meals | spred 20% | Gentle garlic that suits all ages |
Learn more about garlic strengths →
Other garlic alternatives worth considering
1. Garlic-infused oils
Good for drizzling and salad dressings but weaker in flavour.
2. Roasted garlic paste
Sweet and mellow; great for mash and soups.
3. Granulated garlic / garlic powder
Fine for dry rubs but lacks the freshness of stoneground garlic.
Related Articles
- Substitute for Minced Garlic
- Garlic Paste vs Garlic Spread
- Garlic Butter vs Garlic Spread
- Choosing the Right Garlic Strength
Try spred as your everyday garlic substitute
spred gives you instant garlic flavour with zero waste, zero dairy and zero chopping. Choose your strength and enjoy fresh garlic, anytime.