Substitutes For MSG [Monosodium Glutamate] – 6 Best Options

December 29, 2021 Odiraa

Substitutes For MSG [Monosodium Glutamate] – 6 Best Options

Photo Credit: https://www.cuisinevault.com

MSG Free Seasoning in Nigeria
Cooking with all-natural spices
Seasoning without MSG

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Table of Contents

What is MSG

MSG is a flavor enhancer that comes in the form of a crystal powder. Monosodium glutamate, or MSG, is a controversial ingredient that can be found in a variety of processed foods.

Some chefs use it to enhance the flavor of restaurant menu items, and it can also be used in home cooking.

Substitutes For MSG

Despite the fact that MSG is FDA approved, many people prefer to avoid it for a variety of health reasons; others may have difficulties finding it in their local supermarket.

You’ll need an MSG substitute, to enhance the flavor of your dishes.

Alternatives to Seasoning Cubes

The following is a list of all-natural spices and seasonings, the majority of which are common kitchen staples.

They are MSG-free, chemical-free, and can be used separately or in combination, depending on the type of foods you prepare.

In addition, some of them are appropriate for those who have diabetes or high blood pressure.

Let’s get started.

6 excellent monosodium glutamate alternatives

Beef broth – Substitutes for Monosodium Glutamate

Make your own beef stock, or broth, by gently boiling beef bones and aromatics in a stockpot to produce the greatest flavor.

Homemade stock is a wonderful way to boost the umami content of dishes. In fact, the meaty flavor has a strong resemblance to MSG.

This is due to the fact that they both have high quantities of glutamate, an amino acid found in animal protein.

The more the stock is reduced, the more glutamate-laden, umami deliciousness it contains.

You don’t have time to make your own stock? For a quick and easy option, beef stock cubes, often known as bouillon cubes, can be added to water.

Don’t forget to check the label of the product because it may include MSG, which defeats the purpose.

Vegetable bouillon can be used as a substitute at a pinch. It also has the perfect combination of components to imitate the effects of MSG in the kitchen.

Soy Sauce – Substitutes For MSG

MSG can easily be replaced with soy sauce. It’s an umami-rich sauce that goes well with stir-fries, casseroles, and soups.

Soy sauce adds a salty, savory flavor to meals and is widely available in supermarkets.

Always check the ingredients list to ensure there is no MSG added, just like with stock cubes.

Oyster sauce or fish sauce are two other flavorful sauces to consider. Use them sparingly because they can easily oversalt a meal.

Okpei/Ogiri/Dawadawa – Substitutes For MSG

This pungent ball of flavor is from eastern Nigeria and is produced from fermented oil bean seeds.

The origins of okpei and ogiri are the same, however, ogiri is prepared into a paste, whilst okpei is dried into balls.

Dawadawa, a northern variant, is also present.

Iru – MSG Substitutes

IRU is more popular in Nigeria’s Yoruba and Edo regions, and it has a somewhat different flavor than ogiri. In cuisine, it has a distinct’seedy’ look

Ground Crayfish – MSG Substitutes

Crayfish has a complex flavor character, which is why it’s commonly used to thicken soups and other Nigerian foods. To substitute MSG-based seasoning, add this to your cooking arsenal.

Spices – Monosodium Glutamate Substitutes

We adore our spices, and with good reason: they lend the zest that makes Nigerian cuisine so delicious!

The best part is that you can manufacture and keep your own spice blend, but if you’re stuck for ideas, try a seasoning blend of paprika, bay leaves, black pepper, turmeric, ginger, garlic, thyme, and nutmeg for meat, stews, and rice.