5 Best Marmite Substitutes

As a chef who has used Marmite in various recipes, I understand the need for substitutes in certain situations.

Whether you can’t find Marmite at your local store, or you’re looking for a different flavor, here are five great Marmite substitutes to consider.

What is Marmite?

Marmite is a thick, dark brown spread made from yeast extract, a byproduct of beer brewing. It has a strong, savory, and slightly salty flavor that people either love or hate.

This British staple is often spread on toast or used as a flavor enhancer in various dishes. The umami-rich taste of Marmite adds depth and complexity to a variety of recipes.

What to think about when substituting Marmite

When looking for a Marmite substitute, consider the following points:

• Flavor: Choose a substitute with a similar savory, umami-rich taste. Marmite is known for its distinctive flavor, which adds depth and complexity to dishes.
• Consistency: Marmite has a thick, sticky texture. Look for a something with a similar consistency if possible.

5 Best Marmite Substitutes

1 – Vegemite

Overview

Vegemite is an Australian yeast extract spread that closely resembles Marmite. Both spreads have a similar texture and umami flavor, making Vegemite a popular alternative.

How to use Vegemite as a substitute

Use Vegemite at a one-to-one ratio for Marmite in recipes or as a spread.

Keep in mind that Vegemite has a slightly stronger and saltier flavor than Marmite, so you might want to use a little less in your recipe to avoid overpowering other flavors.

2 – Bovril

Overview

Bovril is a British beef extract spread that has a similar thick consistency and umami-rich taste as Marmite. It is made from a combination of beef broth, yeast extract, and spices.

How to use Bovril as a substitute

Bovril can be used as instead, but be aware that it has a meatier flavor due to the beef content.

If you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan alternative, Bovril may not be suitable.

3 – Yeast Extract

Overview

Yeast extract is the base ingredient in both Marmite and Vegemite. You can find plain yeast extract in some health food stores or online.

How to use Yeast Extract as a substitute

Use yeast extract at a one-to-one ratio for Marmite in recipes.

It has a similar flavor profile, but it may be less intense than Marmite. You can adjust the amount to your taste preference.

4 – Nutritional Yeast

Overview

Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast with a flaky or powdery texture. It has a nutty, cheesy, and savory flavor, making it a popular ingredient in vegan and vegetarian recipes.

How to use Nutritional Yeast as a substitute

Although nutritional yeast has a different texture than Marmite, it can still be used as a substitute in recipes.

To replicate the umami flavor and thick consistency of Marmite, mix nutritional yeast with a small amount of soy sauce or tamari.

5 – Soy Sauce or Tamari

Overview

Soy sauce and tamari are both fermented soybean products with a strong, salty, umami flavor. While they have a thinner consistency than Marmite, they can be used as a substitute in recipes where the flavor is more important than the texture.

How to use Soy Sauce or Tamari as a substitute

When using soy sauce or tamari, start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

Keep in mind that both soy sauce and tamari are quite salty, so you may need to reduce the salt content in your recipe accordingly.

Conclusion

Whether you’re out of Marmite or looking for a new twist on an old favorite, these five substitutes offer a range of flavors and textures to suit your needs.

From the close resemblance of Vegemite and yeast extract to the unique qualities of nutritional yeast and soy sauce, each substitute provides a solid choice.

Experiment with these alternatives to find the perfect match for your taste buds and dietary preferences.