Curing salt substitutes
Curing salt substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Regular salt
Same amount as the curing salt
Standard table salt with similar flavor.
The best substitutes for curing salt are regular salt, kosher salt, or a mixture of salt and celery powder, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- cooking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of curing salt | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Regular saltcooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Kosher saltcooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Sea saltcooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Salt + celery powdercooking | 1 tsp salt + ¼ tsp celery powder per 1 tsp curing saltWorks | Works |
| 5 | Pink saltcooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 6 | Himalayan saltcooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
Regular salt
similar taste and texture
Standard table salt with similar flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, preserving, curing, brining
No nitrites, different preserving properties.
Kosher salt
similar taste, different texture
Coarse salt with similar flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, preserving, curing, brining
No nitrites, different preserving properties.
Sea salt
similar taste and texture
Natural salt with similar flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, preserving, curing, brining
No nitrites, different preserving properties.
Salt + celery powder
similar taste and texture
Combination that mimics curing salt's properties.
- Best for
- cooking, preserving, curing, brining
Good substitute for curing salt.
Pink salt
similar taste and texture
Similar salt with nitrites.
- Best for
- cooking, preserving, curing, brining
Similar preserving properties, different color.
Himalayan salt
similar taste and texture
Natural salt with similar flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, preserving, curing, brining
No nitrites, different preserving properties.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use regular salt instead of curing salt?
Yes, regular salt is a good substitute for curing salt. It has similar flavor and can be used in most recipes that call for curing salt.
What's the difference between curing salt and regular salt?
Curing salt contains nitrites and nitrates that help preserve meat, while regular salt is just sodium chloride. Curing salt has additional preserving properties.
Can I use kosher salt instead of curing salt?
Yes, kosher salt can work as a substitute, though it may have different preserving properties. It has similar flavor and can be used in most recipes.
Why is curing salt so popular in meat preservation?
Curing salt is popular in meat preservation because it adds flavor, helps preserve meat, and prevents the growth of harmful bacteria. It's a traditional ingredient in many cured meat recipes.
Tips for substituting curing salt
6 tips- Curing salt adds flavor and helps preserve meat
- Curing salt can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Curing salt pairs well with herbs, spices, and vegetables
- Curing salt works well in brines and marinades
- Curing salt can be used to make sausages and cured meats
- Store curing salt in a cool, dry place