Best Ginger Substitutes
Out of ginger? These are the best ginger substitutes you can use in cooking and baking — ranked by how well they work in most recipes. Whether you need a dairy-free swap, a pantry staple alternative, or just ran out mid-recipe, one of these 4 options will have you covered.
Ginger Substitution Options
¼ tsp Ground Ginger
Use instead of Fresh Ginger, grated
Ground ginger is more concentrated — use ¼ tsp for every tsp of fresh. Ground ginger is drier and less bright, so the flavor is similar but slightly more muted. Works well in baked goods and cooked dishes.
Crystallized Ginger, minced (for sweet recipes)
Use instead of Fresh Ginger, grated
Rinse crystallized ginger to remove excess sugar, then mince finely. Use 1:1 in baked goods, chutneys, and desserts. The sweetness adds to the recipe, so reduce other sugar slightly.
Ground Allspice + ½ tsp Ground Cinnamon
Use instead of Fresh Ginger, grated
This combination provides ginger's warm, slightly peppery quality through complementary spices. Best in baked goods like gingerbread, spice cookies, and cakes where ginger's exact flavor is secondary to warmth.
Galangal, grated
Use instead of Fresh Ginger, grated
Galangal is ginger's cousin — sharper, more piney, and more peppery. Use 1:1 in Thai and Southeast Asian cooking where it appears in many of the same dishes. A very close substitute in curries and soups.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for ginger?
The best substitutes for ginger are ¼ tsp Ground Ginger, Crystallized Ginger, minced (for sweet recipes), Ground Allspice + ½ tsp Ground Cinnamon. Ground ginger is more concentrated — use ¼ tsp for every tsp of fresh. Ground ginger is drier and less bright, so the flavor is similar but slightly more muted. Works well in baked goods and cooked dishes.
Can I use Crystallized Ginger, minced (for sweet recipes) instead of ginger?
Rinse crystallized ginger to remove excess sugar, then mince finely. Use 1:1 in baked goods, chutneys, and desserts. The sweetness adds to the recipe, so reduce other sugar slightly.
How do I substitute ginger in baking?
When substituting ginger in baking, it's important to match the ratio carefully. Check the individual substitution notes above for exact measurements and tips for each swap.