Grenadine is a popular ingredient in cocktails and mixed drinks because of its sweet, fruity flavor and deep red color.
However, it is not always easily available at home or at the grocery store. If you’re in a pinch and need grenadine for your recipe, don’t worry!
There are several great substitutes that you can use. In this blog post, we will explore the 10 best grenadine substitutes and how to use them with the right ratios.
In short, " What can I use instead of grenadine?" Pomegranate Juice and Sugar, Raspberry Syrup, Cherry Juice Concentrate, Cranberry Juice and Sugar, Strawberry Syrup, Hibiscus Syrup, Cherry Grenadine, Cherry juice, Hibiscus tea, Red Kool-Aid.
What is grenadine, and what does grenadine taste like?
Grenadine is a sweet, tart syrup made from pomegranates which gives it a beautiful red color. It has notes of tart cherry and hints of raspberry and strawberry, as well as other sweet notes like cinnamon.
Grenadine tastes both tart and sweet at once, making it the perfect complement to many cocktails.
Uses of grenadine
Grenadine is a sweet and tangy syrup made from pomegranate juice, sugar, and other flavorings.
It is most commonly used as a key ingredient in many popular cocktails, such as the Tequila Sunrise and Shirley Temple.
Additionally, grenadine can be used to make refreshing mocktails, desserts, glazes, sauces and more!
For example, grenadine can be used to create a rich and flavorful glaze for meats such as ham or chicken.
This syrup can also be added to marinades for fruit or vegetables for a unique twist on classic recipes.
Grenadine can also be used in baking or cooking to create syrupy cakes or other treats with an interesting twist.
Furthermore, it makes an excellent addition to ice creams, milkshakes and smoothies for those with a sweet tooth!
Grenadine is also an essential ingredient in salad dressings and condiments such as barbecue sauce.
Mixed with mayonnaise or yogurt-based dressings, it adds a sweet and tangy flavor that sets any dish apart from others.
As an additional bonus, this syrup has many health advantages due to its high content of vitamins A and C, which are beneficial for the skin’s health.
In summary, there are many uses of grenadine beyond just making tasty cocktails! From glazes to desserts and dressings, grenadine has the potential to add some zest to any recipe!
Where to buy grenadine?
If you are looking for where to buy grenadine, there are a few different places you can go. Many specialty food stores carry it, as do some international grocery stores.
You can also order online from many retailers that provide a variety of diverse flavors and types of grenadine.
1. Pomegranate Juice and Sugar – a good grenadine substitute
Pomegranate juice is the primary ingredient in grenadine, so it’s the perfect substitute. Start by reducing the pomegranate juice over medium heat until you have a thick syrup.
Add sugar while stirring continuously until it dissolves in the syrup. You can add some little lemon juice to make it tangier, but it’s not necessary.
Ratio: The ratio is one part pomegranate juice to two parts sugar.
2. Raspberry Syrup
Raspberry syrup is one of the best grenadine substitutes. It gives the same fruity flavors and sweetness as grenadine without the tartness.
You can use it in cocktails, mocktails, or even desserts.
Ratio: The perfect ratio for raspberry syrup is one part syrup to one part water.
3. Try Cherry Juice Concentrate in place of grenadine
Cherry juice concentrate has a rich, sweet, and tangy flavor that makes it an excellent substitute for grenadine. It works best in cocktails that require a sweet and fruity flavor.
Ratio: The perfect ratio is one part cherry juice concentrate to two parts water.
4. Cranberry Juice and Sugar
Cranberry juice is a perfect grenadine substitute for those who prefer a tart flavor.
Just like pomegranate juice, start by reducing cranberry juice over medium heat until you have a thick syrup. Add sugar while stirring continuously until it dissolves in the syrup.
Ratio: The ratio is one part cranberry juice to two parts sugar.
5. Strawberry Syrup – a tasty grenadine alternative
Strawberry syrup is a great substitute for grenadine. It has a sweet and fruity flavor that works well in cocktails and mocktails.
Ratio: The perfect ratio for strawberry syrup is one part syrup to one part water.
6. Hibiscus Syrup
Hibiscus syrup is another excellent grenadine substitute. It adds a floral and fruity flavor and is perfect for cocktails that require a tart and sweet flavor.
Ratio: The perfect ratio is one part hibiscus syrup to one part water.
7. Cherry Grenadine – similar taste to grenadine
If you can’t find grenadine in stores, you can make your own cherry grenadine. Boil 2 cups of pitted cherries, 2 cups of sugar, and 2 cups of water until the cherries soften.
Strain the mix and pour it into a jar. Add two tablespoons of vodka to prevent it from spoiling and extend its shelf life.
Ratio: The perfect ratio is one part cherry grenadine to two parts water.
8. Cherry juice
Cherry juice is another sweet and fruity alternative to grenadine. It has a slightly different taste but still works well in most cocktails.
Ratio: Use the same amount of cherry juice as your recipe calls for grenadine.
9. Hibiscus tea – a decent grenadine replacement
Hibiscus tea is another great substitute with a similar color to grenadine. It has a slightly tart taste, which may require adding extra sugar to your recipe.
Ratio: Use 1/2 cup of hibiscus tea mixed with 1/4 cup of sugar as a replacement for 3/4 cup of grenadine.
10. Red Kool-Aid
If you’re in a real pinch and need a quick substitute for grenadine, red Kool-Aid will do the trick. It has a similar color and sweet taste but lacks the fruity flavor of grenadine.
Ratio: Use the same amount of red Kool-Aid as your recipe calls for grenadine.
How to Choose the Most Suitable Substitution Option for Grenadine
When looking for a suitable substitution for grenadine, consider the following tips:
1. Flavor Profile: Grenadine has a distinct sweet and tart flavor with hints of pomegranate. When choosing a substitute, look for ingredients with a similar flavor profile.
Pomegranate juice or pomegranate syrup can be excellent alternatives to mimic the fruity and tangy taste of grenadine.
2. Sweetness Level: Take into account the sweetness of grenadine and adjust the sweetness level of the substitute accordingly.
Grenadine is known for its sweetness, so you may need to add some additional sweetener, such as simple syrup or honey, to your chosen substitute to achieve the desired level of sweetness.
3. Color: Grenadine also adds a vibrant red color to cocktails and beverages. If you’re aiming for a similar visual appeal, consider using ingredients that provide a similar hue.
Some alternatives include cranberry juice, cherry juice, or even a mixture of raspberry and pomegranate juices.
4. Texture: Grenadine has a syrup-like consistency. If the texture is an important factor in your recipe, you can create a homemade syrup using pomegranate juice, sugar, and a small amount of lemon juice or citric acid to achieve a thicker consistency.
5. Recipe Compatibility: Consider the specific recipe you’re preparing and how the substitute will interact with other ingredients.
Pomegranate molasses, for example, can work well in savory dishes or salad dressings, while fruit juices or syrups may be better suited for cocktails and sweet beverages.
6. Availability: Take into account the availability of the substitute option in your area. Pomegranate juice and cranberry juice are usually widely available, while pomegranate syrup or molasses may require a visit to specialty stores or online retailers.
7. Experiment and Adjust: Conduct taste tests with different substitution options to determine their impact on the overall flavor of your recipe.
Adjust the quantities or make any necessary modifications based on your taste preferences and the desired outcome.
Non-alcoholic substitute for grenadine
Grenadine is a popular sweet syrup used in many mixed drinks, but there are plenty of non-alcoholic substitutes that can be just as tasty.
Here are the five best non-alcoholic grenadine substitutes with their suggested ratios and instructions on how to use them:
1. Pomegranate juice
Pomegranate juice is one of the more popular grenadine alternatives as it not only adds sweetness but also a vibrant color to any drink.
The recommended ratio is 3 parts pomegranate juice to 1 part simple syrup. Simply mix and add to your drink for a sweet and colorful addition!
2. Raspberry or cherry juice
Both raspberry and cherry juices can make great grenadine substitutes if you’re looking for an added fruity flavor. They can be diluted with water or simple syrup to mellow out the sweetness, according to preference.
A suggested ratio would be 2 parts fruit juice to 1 part simple syrup. Mix together and add it to your drink!
3. Apple cider
Apple cider is another great non-alcoholic substitute for grenadine due to its tartness and sweetness.
For each tablespoon of grenadine you need, substitute it with 4 tablespoons of apple cider instead, along with a pinch of sugar or honey if needed for added sweetness.
4. Cranberry juice
Cranberry juice has a bright red hue similar to that of the classic grenadine, which makes it an ideal alternative for drinks like Tequila Sunrises or Shirley Temples when you want to keep them alcohol-free.
The recommended ratio for cranberry juice is 4 parts cranberry juice to 1 part orange or pineapple juice; this will ensure the perfect balance between sweet and tart flavors!
5. Fruit purees
Aside from juices, pureed fruits are also excellent options when looking for non-alcoholic substitutes for grenadine!
You can combine different fruits like strawberries, raspberries, cherries, apples or even peaches in equal proportions until you obtain a syrupy consistency.
Then add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice per cup of puree and mix well before adding it to your favorite drinks!
Substitute for grenadine in a tequila sunrise
A Tequila Sunrise is a popular cocktail that is traditionally made with tequila, orange juice, and grenadine.
If you are looking for a substitute for the grenadine in a Tequila Sunrise, an easy option would be to use pomegranate juice.
Simply mix 2 parts of your favorite tequila with 3 parts orange juice and 1 part pomegranate juice.
The sweetness of the pomegranate will enhance the flavor of your drink while also providing a vibrant red hue.
Additionally, it will bring more antioxidants into your drink which may benefit your health in various ways–such as helping to fight heart disease and cancer.
For those wanting an even sweeter beverage, you can add 1/2 teaspoon of sugar or agave syrup to the pomegranate juice before mixing it in. Enjoy!
Substitute for grenadine in Chapman
Chapman, or “Zobo” as it is sometimes called, is a popular Nigerian drink made with ginger ale, lime juice, and a sweetener such as sugar or honey.
Though traditionally made with grenadine syrup, there are plenty of other great options for substitutions.
For example, you could try pomegranate or cranberry juice for a fresh and tart flavor.
Alternatively, you could add a splash of orange juice for some fruity sweetness. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, try adding some flavored syrups like raspberry syrup or even vanilla extract.
No matter what substitute you choose to use in your chapman recipe, the end result will be a delicious and refreshing beverage that will quench your thirst on hot summer days.
Substitute for grenadine syrup in Shirley Temple
A Shirley Temple is a popular non-alcoholic beverage that traditionally consists of ginger ale mixed with a dash of grenadine syrup and topped off with a maraschino cherry.
If grenadine syrup is not available, other readily accessible ingredients can be used as a substitution.
Examples include pomegranate juice, cranberry juice, raspberry syrup, or even cherry juice.
Additionally, if you’d prefer something more natural than store-bought alternatives, you can make your own grenadine syrup at home using equal parts freshly squeezed orange or pineapple juice and pure cane sugar.
Simply blend the ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat until boiling and reduce to your desired pourable consistency.
Some recipes may also call for adding various fruits, such as strawberries or cherries, to give the syrup a unique flavor profile.
Regardless of which type of substitute you choose, making a Shirley Temple is an easy and enjoyable way to make any day special.
Substitute for grenadine cherry
A grenadine cherry can be easily replaced with another type of berry, such as a raspberry or a blackberry.
These fruits contain the same deep hue and subtle sweetness that make grenadine cherries so appealing but offer a slightly different flavor profile and nutritional makeup.
Raspberries are an excellent choice to substitute for grenadine cherries in recipes, as they have high levels of fiber, which can help to give added texture and bulk to dishes.
They also provide beneficial antioxidants, vitamin C, manganese, and potassium. Blackberries are also a good option, containing plenty of vitamins A and C in addition to fiber.
Plus, their distinctive color provides visual appeal when adding them to recipes that call for grenadine cherries.
Discover more: Best Orange Curacao Substitutes
Substitute grenadine syrup in a cocktail
Grenadine syrup is often used as a sweet and tart addition to cocktails. It can be substituted with various other syrups or juice blends, depending on the desired flavor profile.
For a sweeter substitution, consider pomegranate molasses or a blended combination of orange juice and cranberry juice.
For a more tart substitution, try a blend of lime juice and ginger beer or a combination of cranberry juice and raspberry puree.
When substituting grenadine syrup in cocktails, it is important to adjust the amount used according to the sweetness or tartness of the alternative ingredients used.
Conclusion on grenadine substitute
If you love to make cocktails or mocktails at home, you don’t need to worry if you run out of grenadine.
These 10 substitutes can help you achieve the same sweet and fruity flavors that grenadine gives.
They’re easy to make and require ingredients that you already have in your pantry. Don’t let the lack of grenadine stop you from enjoying delicious beverages.
Try these substitutes and find your favorite.
Explore more: Best Substitutes for Crown Royal Whisky
FAQs on grenadine substitute
Q1. What is similar to grenadine?
Similar ingredients to grenadine include raspberry syrup, pomegranate molasses, pomegranate juice, cherry syrup or a mixture of orange and cranberry juices.
Grenadine is traditionally made from a base of pomegranate juice and sugar, but modern versions are often made with artificial flavorings. Some people make homemade grenadine with fresh fruit such as raspberries or cherries.
Q2. Is grenadine similar to cherry juice?
No, grenadine is not similar to cherry juice. Grenadine is a syrup that is made from pomegranate juice or concentrate and is used as an ingredient in many cocktails.
Cherry juice, on the other hand, is made from the juice of cherries and contains natural sugar and vitamin C.
It has a sweeter taste compared to grenadine and has a much higher content of essential minerals such as potassium, calcium, zinc, phosphorus, sodium and magnesium.
Cherry juice also typically contains some fiber, whereas grenadine does not contain any dietary fiber.
Q3. Can you use honey instead of grenadine?
It is possible to use honey in place of grenadine, though the flavor may be slightly different.
Honey has a unique flavor profile that might not work well in recipes calling for traditional grenadine flavors, such as sweet and tart.
Additionally, honey is much sweeter than grenadine, so you will need to adjust other ingredients accordingly to ensure you have the desired sweetness level.
Overall, it’s best to stick with standard recipes when possible.
Q4. Is simple syrup similar to grenadine?
Simple syrup and grenadine are both sweetened syrups that are used for adding flavor and sweetness to drinks. However, they differ in terms of the base ingredients used and the flavors they impart.
Simple syrup is produced by dissolving sugar in water, while grenadine is made from pomegranate juice, which gives it a more distinct taste and deep red color.
Both can be used in a variety of cocktails as well as added to sodas or other beverages for sweetness, but simple syrup works better as a mixer due to its neutral flavor, while grenadine will add more flavor complexity to the drink.
Q5. Can you use Chambord instead of Grenadine
Instead of using grenadine, Chambord can be used in cocktails as a substitute to add a unique flavor.
Chambord is a premium French liqueur produced from whole black raspberries and has an intense berry aroma and sweet, earthy taste that can bring about a depth of flavor to any drink.
It is usually combined with other liquors and mixers such as vodka, rum, gin, tonic water, orange juice or lemonade to create flavorful cocktails.
The addition of Chambord will provide subtle hints of raspberry that will surely make your cocktail stand out from the rest.
Q6. Can you substitute grenadine for pomegranate juice?
Yes, grenadine can be used as a substitute for pomegranate juice in many recipes.
Grenadine is a syrup that is traditionally made from pomegranate juice, sugar and other ingredients such as orange flower water or rose water.
However, most store-bought versions of grenadine are made with artificial colors and flavors which can give the drink an overly sweet flavor.
When using grenadine as a substitute for pomegranate juice, you may need to reduce the amount of sugar added to the recipe since grenadine is already sweetened.
Additionally, if the flavor of the pomegranate is desired stronger than what commercial grenadines offer, you could opt for a high-quality homemade version of this syrup which typically utilizes only natural ingredients and has a brighter flavor profile than its store-bought counterparts.
