A bouillon cube is a concentrated dry cube cooked with stews, soups, and other cuisines. When water is added, it equals a cup (8oz.) of broth. So, how much is equal to one cube of bouillon?
One bouillon cube is equivalent to four grams or one tsp of bouillon powder. Knowing this will help if you use powder, granules, or cubes. Cubes are the concentrated version and are easier to handle.
Bouillon is versatile, used in multiple recipes, and is the base of a broth, whether it is fish, chicken, vegetable, or beef. We will cover the equivalent mixtures, what it is used for, and some tips when using bouillon.
The Mixtures and Measurements
When you purchase bouillon cubes, there are several in a container, and one small cube is used for different mixtures for seasoning, broths, the base for gravy, and adding a boost to the flavor of any cuisine. Recipes will call for various measurements, and the below will help perfect the flavors.
- One cube with one cup of water equals an eight-ounce can of broth.
- One cube equals four grams.
- One cube equals one teaspoon of powder.
- One cube equals one teaspoon of granules.
The Various Ways to Use Bouillon
When using bouillon, it is essential to remember it is a concentrated cube that is potent alone. It is best dissolved in hot liquid or used as a rub or seasoning.
If you want to use it as a seasoning, ensure the cube is wet and rub it on the food you are cooking. Most people use it for vegetables or meats. For the best results, crush the cubes into powder and press them into the meat.
Using bouillon to make gravy is easy and only takes one or two cubes. It takes eight ounces of hot water per cube and mix it with the gravy to boost the flavor. The cube may be added to the gravy and water mixture but fully dissolve before serving. How much gravy depends on the dish. Please note that it will not make the gravy thicker; it will only add more flavor.
The same applies to using bouillon for broths and soups. The cube must fully dissolve before adding it to the food. It will take one cube per eight ounces of hot water. Soups and broths usually cover the food by about half an inch to an inch, so be mindful of how much broth mixture is used.
Special Tips When Using Bouillon Cubes
It is up to each person’s preference which one suits your needs best, bouillon cubes or broth. These are tips to remember when using bouillon cubes:
- Know the dilution ratios: It is essential to know how many bouillon cubes you need when mixing it for a dish. Bouillon cubes are very different in proportions in specific recipes. Using a can of broth usually takes the whole can with no questions asked.
- Bouillon cubes work best in stocks: When making stocks, use the right flavor. If you are using chicken, use chicken bouillon. If you are cooking with beef, use beef bouillon. It gives it a robust flavor.
- Go easy on the salt: Bouillon cubes are salty enough. Too much salt will ruin the dish you are making.
- Bouillon cubes for marinade: You can make your mixture and dilute it with water. The less water used, the more flavor you get from the marinade. If you dilute the cube, do not put the meat in the warm broth mixture. Let it cool down first.
FAQ
What are some substitutes for bouillon cubes?
There are at least three different substitutes for bouillon cubes. They are beef broth, butter and water, and other kinds of stock.
How do you store bouillon cubes?
If the container is unopened, a cool, dry pantry will do the trick for storage. Once the container is opened, it is best kept in the fridge. They last for two years in the refrigerator. Homemade bouillon will only last a few months.
How do you tell if a bouillon cube is still good?
If the bouillon cube goes bad, it will have a not-so-pleasant smell, taste terrible, and will have a different color.
