What is the Best Lemongrass Paste Substitute?

Lemongrass paste is renowned for adding a pleasant kick and flavor boost to any dish. Lemongrass paste is a versatile component that may be used in anything from soups and broths to eleven different teas.

Cooks nowadays, on the other hand, like to be adaptable in their profession. So, what do you do if you can’t locate lemongrass paste? Of course, find an alternative.

What is the finest lemongrass paste substitute? We discovered that dried lemongrass is the finest accessible alternative for lemongrass paste among the several options. It has a similar taste and flavor profile, and it is simple to make. As a result, it’s an excellent alternative for lemongrass paste.

An Overview of Lemongrass Paste

Lemongrass paste is often used in recipes nowadays to provide a citrus-infused aroma and fresh taste. This is why lemongrass paste is so delicious. Several people have discovered that it may be used to add flavor to foods and even drinks.

Lemongrass paste is often made by stripping the outer covering of lemongrass stalks, slicing everything else, and properly grinding the grass. Add additional water to make the paste thicker, and you’re good to go!

If the real lemongrass can be used in a dish recipe, you may be certain that lemongrass paste can as well. This savory paste may be produced and kept ahead of time, or you can make it right now since it just takes a few minutes and a few ingredients.

Lemongrass paste comes in a variety of flavors. You may also get some at food shops, however these pens include extra ingredients like garlic and ginger that give them a sour flavor.

Why Replace Lemongrass Paste?

• Taste differences: Not everyone loves the taste of lemongrass paste. If you’re such a person, then perhaps a substitute will be ideal for you.
• Non-availability: If you can’t find lemongrass paste around you, then you’d need a substitute that can work well in its place.

Options for Lemongrass Paste Substitutes

Best Overall Substitute for Lemongrass Paste: Dry Lemongrass

Since that they are almost identical, it goes without saying that dried lemongrass will be an excellent alternative for lemongrass paste. Although lemongrass paste has other components such as ginger and garlic, which give it a spicy flavor, dried lemongrass has a woody flavor. Nonetheless, the basic notes remain the same, and you will notice that dried lemongrass imparts more flavor as it cooks.

Dry lemongrass is less acidic and harsh, making it a better alternative for lemongrass paste. Nevertheless, if you let your cuisine to simmer, the dried lemongrass taste will intensify.

In terms of quantities, one teaspoon dried lemongrass equals one teaspoon lemongrass paste. As a result, it is more of a one-for-one substitution. But, you must be cautious with the amounts since dried lemongrass may develop a stronger taste as it cooks longer. As a result, we suggest using less, and you can always add more as you cook.

Another thing to consider is that you may want to thoroughly cut your dried lemongrass. This way, no wood bits get up in your meal. If your lemongrass contains stems, crush those in a food processor as well. You may be able to get ground dry lemongrass; if so, you’re set.

Best Non-Lemon Substitute: Japanese Yuzu

If you don’t have lemongrass paste on hand and want to change up the taste, Japanese yuzu may be your best alternative. The fruit belongs to the citrus family and has the typical citrus and floral taste we’ve all grown to know and love. It tastes really similar to lemongrass pasts, so you won’t be losing out on anything in terms of flavor.

Japanese yuzu is often used in traditional sweet and savory recipes. It goes well with seafood and curry-based recipes, and it’s an excellent taste alternative for lemongrass paste.

You may use the fruit’s zest and juice, but bear in mind that yuzu zest has hints of orange and mandarin, as well as a flowery flavor.

In terms of applications, it is entirely up to you. Yuzu has a strong taste, so you should be able to get by with less. But, since the yuzu fruit does not contain a lot of juice, you should be prepared to squeeze more of it.

Best Combo Substitute: Arugula and Lemon Zest

Occasionally a mix of components is required to provide the necessary lemongrass paste replacement. In such case, give the arugula-lemon zest mixture a good shake.

Arugula provides the peppery and acidic flavor you need to make your meal stand out, while lemon zest adds the recognizable freshness that comes with all citrus plants. It’s a two-pronged attack!

Several individuals use lemon zest alone to replace lemongrass pastes. To be fair, lemon zest may work just well, particularly if the taste is all that matters and the lemon zest isn’t the main component. Yet, when combined with arugula, lemon zest takes on a new dimension of taste.

In terms of application, the arugula and lemon zest combination may be used in a variety of recipes. It’s great in curries, soups, broths, and other dishes. The combo complements fish meals well. When mixing both, we suggest replacing two teaspoons of lemongrass paste with one arugula leaf and one teaspoon of lemon zest.