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Home - Cooking - Substitutes

Latest Updated: Feb 28, 2026 by Andrew Gray

5 BEST Substitutes for Sriracha

Good replacements for Sriracha include Sambal Oelek, Peri-Peri Sauce, Sweet Chili Sauce, Tabasco Hot Sauce, and Louisiana Hot Sauce.

Sambal Oelek

Sambal oelek is a traditional Indonesian chili paste that is made from ground chili peppers, vinegar, and salt.

Peri-Peri Sauce

Peri-Peri sauce is a fiery African chili sauce with a cult following.

Alright, gang, here's the scoop.

Surprisingly, our cabinets hide some ace Sriracha swaps that can kick things up a notch.

From that leftover hot sauce from taco night to the exotic jar of chili paste we bought on a whim, we're covered.

And even some everyday items can save the day. Think outside the bottle-our taste adventure is just getting started.

what is sriracha Save for Later!

Table of Contents

Toggle
  • Sriracha Sauce Substitutes
    • 1 - Sambal Oelek
    • 2 - Peri-Peri Sauce
    • 3 - Sweet Chili Sauce
    • 4 - Tabasco Hot Sauce
    • 5 - Louisiana Hot Sauce
  • Frequently Asked Questions

Sriracha Sauce Substitutes

If you're one of the many people who love Sriracha sauce, you know that it can be hard to find a good substitute.

Here are 5 of the best substitutes for Sriracha:

1 - Sambal Oelek

sambal oelek Save for Later!

Sambal oelek is a traditional Indonesian chili paste that is made from ground chili peppers, vinegar, and salt.

It is typically used as a condiment or spice, adding some heat to dishes.

Sambal oelek can be made with any type of chili pepper, but the most common variety is made with rediscovered bird's eye chili peppers.

These small, fiery peppers provide an intense chili flavor, making them a popular choice for those who like their food spicy.

While sambal oelek can be purchased at many grocers, it is also fairly easy to make at home.

Simply combine chili peppers, vinegar, and salt in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.

The paste can then be stored in a jar in the refrigerator for up to one month.

When used judiciously, sambal oelek can add a delicious depth of flavor to any dish.

2 - Peri-Peri Sauce

periperi sauce Save for Later!

Peri-Peri sauce is a fiery African chili sauce with a cult following.

Hailing from Mozambique, the sauce is made from bird's eye chili peppers, which are among the spiciest peppers in the world.

The peppers are combined with garlic, lemon juice, and other spices to create a sauce that packs a serious punch.

While the exact origins of peri-peri sauce are disputed, there's no denying its popularity.

The sauce has become something of a global phenomenon, enjoyed by chili lovers around the world.

Whether you're looking to add some heat to your cooking or simply want to spice things up, peri-peri sauce is worth trying.

Just be warned: it's not for the faint of heart.

3 - Sweet Chili Sauce

sweet chili sauce Save for Later!

Sweet chili sauce is a type of condiment typically made from a mixture of chili peppers, sugar, vinegar, and garlic.

It is commonly used as a dipping sauce or as a flavorful addition to Asian-inspired dishes.

While the exact origins of sweet chili sauce are unknown, it is thought to have originated in Thailand.

Today, it is widely available in grocery stores and is often used as a dipping sauce for spring rolls or as a stir-fry sauce.

Sweet chili sauce can also be used as a marinade for chicken or shrimp or as a topping for burgers and sandwiches.

With its sweet, spicy flavor, sweet chili sauce is a versatile condiment that can add a touch of flavor to any dish.

4 - Tabasco Hot Sauce

tabasco hot sauce Save for Later!

Tabasco hot sauce is a type of chili pepper sauce that originates from the Mexican state of Tabasco.

The sauce is made from red peppers that are ground into a paste and then mixed with vinegar and salt.

It is commonly used as a condiment for food, but it can also be used as an ingredient in recipes.

Tabasco hot sauce has a unique flavor that is both spicy and acidic.

The spiciness of the sauce comes from the capsaicin in the peppers, while the acidity is provided by the vinegar.

Tabasco hot sauce is available in various degrees of heat, from mild to extremely hot.

The level of spiciness can be adjusted by changing the ratio of peppers to vinegar.

Tabasco hot sauce is a popular choice for those who like their food to have a little kick.

5 - Louisiana Hot Sauce

louisiana hot sauce Save for Later!

For generations, Louisiana hot sauce has been a beloved staple of the Bayou State.

This fiery condiment is made from peppers, vinegar, and salt, and it packs a serious punch.

Louisiana hot sauce is used to add flavor and spice to food, and it can also be used as a weapon in self-defense.

The sauce is so potent that it has been known to cause temporary blindness and burning sensations.

In fact, caution is advised when handling Louisiana hot sauce, as it can be dangerous if not used properly.

Despite the risks, there is no denying the appeal of this spicy concoction.

And for those who like it hot, Louisiana hot sauce is the perfect way to add some extra zing to their food.

You might also want to know what sriracha tastes like.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for Sriracha?

Sambal Oelek Sambal oelek is a traditional Indonesian chili paste that is made from ground chili peppers, vinegar, and salt. Use it at a 1:1 ratio in any recipe that calls for Sriracha.

What are the closest alternatives?

In most cases, yes. Try Sambal Oelek first since the flavor is closest.

Peri-Peri Sauce handles heat and texture differently, so test in small batches.

Will the color or appearance of the dish change?

It can, especially with ingredients that have distinct colors or pigments. The difference is usually minor in mixed dishes but may be more visible in lighter sauces or batters.

How do you adjust seasoning when using a substitute?

Taste as you go.

Substitutes can be saltier, milder, or sweeter than the original.

Add seasoning gradually and adjust at the end rather than matching the original recipe amounts exactly.

Explore more: This post is part of our Ingredient Substitutes Guide.
Andrew Gray

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Restaurant industry veteran sharing real recipes, honest substitutes, and tips that actually work in a home kitchen.

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