What can I substitute for MSG?

The best substitutes for MSG are: 1) Mushroom (1 tsp mushroom powder per 1/4 tsp MSG), 2) Soy Sauce (1/2 tsp soy sauce per 1/4 tsp MSG), 3) Fish Sauce (1/4 tsp fish sauce per 1/4 tsp MSG).

What is the best MSG substitute for cooking?

For cooking, the best substitute for MSG is Mushroom with a ratio of 1 tsp mushroom powder per 1/4 tsp MSG. Dried mushroom powder is rich in natural glutamates that provide the same umami boost as MSG. Use about 4 times as much to achieve equivalent savory depth.

What is a vegan substitute for MSG?

A vegan substitute for MSG is Mushroom with a ratio of 1 tsp mushroom powder per 1/4 tsp MSG. This substitute is rated as a good match.

Substitute for MSG - Best Alternatives

Pure umami flavor enhancer that deepens savory taste in any dish without adding distinct flavor of its own.

Substitutes

Mushroom — 1 tsp mushroom powder per 1/4 tsp MSG. Dried mushroom powder is rich in natural glutamates that provide the same umami boost as MSG. Use about 4 times as much to achieve equivalent savory depth.
Soy Sauce — 1/2 tsp soy sauce per 1/4 tsp MSG. Soy sauce is naturally rich in glutamates from fermented soybeans. It adds umami along with saltiness and color, so reduce other salt in the recipe.
Fish Sauce — 1/4 tsp fish sauce per 1/4 tsp MSG. Fish sauce packs intense umami from fermented fish. A few drops deliver powerful savory depth similar to MSG, but with added complexity and salt.
Nutritional Yeast — 1 tsp nutritional yeast per 1/4 tsp MSG. Nutritional yeast contains natural glutamic acid that provides cheesy, savory umami. A popular plant-based umami source, though it adds a slight yeasty note.