I love creating my own seasoning blends at home, and this Homemade Bouillon Powder has quickly become one of my favorites. It’s an easy way to add depth and richness to soups, stews, and sauces without relying on store-bought versions that often contain additives or preservatives. With a blend of herbs, spices, and nutritional yeast, this bouillon powder is packed with umami flavor and works perfectly in a variety of dishes.
Why Make Your Own Bouillon Powder?
Homemade bouillon powder is a fantastic alternative to store-bought broth cubes. It’s made from simple, wholesome ingredients, allowing you to control the flavor and sodium content while avoiding artificial additives. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can use it as a seasoning for roasted vegetables, a base for homemade soups, or even as a flavorful sprinkle over rice or pasta.
The combination of nutritional yeast, dried herbs, and spices creates a balanced seasoning blend that enhances any dish. The nutritional yeast brings a natural umami flavor, while the garlic, onion, and celery seed add depth and aroma. The turmeric not only contributes a warm, earthy taste but also gives the bouillon powder a beautiful golden hue.
Another great advantage of making your own bouillon powder is its long shelf life. Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for months, making it a convenient pantry staple. It’s a must-have for anyone who enjoys cooking from scratch and wants a reliable, easy-to-use seasoning blend
Ingredients for Homemade Bouillon Powder
Creating your own bouillon powder requires just a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients. Each ingredient plays a key role in bringing depth and richness to the blend.
Essential Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast – Provides a rich, savory umami flavor that mimics the taste of broth.
- 2 tablespoons salt – Enhances all the flavors and makes the bouillon powder a well-rounded seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder – Adds a warm, aromatic depth.
- 1 tablespoon onion powder – Complements the garlic and provides a mellow sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley – Brings a mild herby note.
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme – Adds a subtle earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – A touch of Mediterranean warmth.
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric – Provides color and a hint of warmth.
- 1 teaspoon celery seed (or celery salt, reducing the additional salt if using celery salt) – Contributes a fresh, slightly peppery taste reminiscent of classic broth flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds just a hint of spice to balance the blend.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika – A gentle smokiness rounds out the flavor.
This combination creates a rich, savory, and slightly herby seasoning blend that can be used in a variety of dishes.
How to Make Homemade Bouillon Powder
Making this bouillon powder is incredibly easy and takes just a few minutes. Here’s how to prepare and store it:
Step 1: Blend the Ingredients
In a food processor, blender, or spice grinder, combine all the ingredients. Pulse for about 30-60 seconds, or until the mixture reaches a fine, uniform powder. This helps blend the flavors evenly and ensures a smooth consistency for easy mixing into liquids.
Step 2: Store Properly
Transfer the bouillon powder to an airtight jar or container to keep it fresh. A glass spice jar or a small mason jar works well. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Properly stored, it can last up to 6 months while maintaining its flavor.
Step 3: Use in Your Recipes
To use your homemade bouillon powder, simply dissolve 1 teaspoon in 1 cup of hot water to replace store-bought broth. It can also be sprinkled directly onto roasted vegetables, grains, or soups for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Use Homemade Bouillon Powder in Cooking
Homemade bouillon powder is an incredibly versatile seasoning that enhances a variety of dishes. Whether you need a quick broth substitute or a flavorful boost for vegetables and grains, this homemade mix delivers rich umami flavor with ease.
How Much Bouillon Powder to Use?
- To make broth: Mix 1 teaspoon of bouillon powder with 1 cup of hot water for a quick, flavorful broth.
- For soups and stews: Add 1-2 teaspoons per serving to deepen the flavor.
- For rice and grains: Stir in 1 teaspoon per cup of uncooked rice, quinoa, or couscous before cooking for extra seasoning.
- For roasted vegetables: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon over veggies before roasting to enhance their natural sweetness.
- As a seasoning: Use a pinch in salad dressings, stir-fries, or even as a popcorn topping for a savory kick.
This homemade blend is a perfect substitute for store-bought bouillon cubes or broth powder, and it allows you to control the salt and flavors in your meals.
How Long Does Bouillon Powder Last?
Since this bouillon powder is made with dried ingredients, it has a long shelf life. When stored properly, it remains fresh for up to 6 months.
Storage Tips:
- Keep it in an airtight container to prevent moisture from clumping the powder.
- Store in a cool, dry place, such as a spice rack or pantry.
- Shake or stir occasionally to keep the mixture evenly blended.
Unlike liquid broths, this dry bouillon powder doesn’t require refrigeration and is perfect for keeping on hand for quick, flavorful meals.
Why Nutritional Yeast?
Nutritional yeast is the secret ingredient that makes this bouillon powder rich and savory. It has a natural umami flavor that enhances soups, sauces, and vegetable dishes. Additionally, it’s:
✔ Gluten-free and vegan-friendly
✔ Packed with B vitamins, making it a nutritious addition to meals
✔ A great alternative to MSG-based seasonings, offering depth without artificial ingredients
Nutritional yeast brings a cheesy, slightly nutty taste to this bouillon mix, making it a flavorful base for all kinds of dishes.
Tips for the Best Homemade Bouillon Powder
- Adjust the Salt: If you prefer a lower-sodium version, reduce the salt and adjust to taste when cooking.
- Customize the Flavor: Add extra herbs like rosemary or sage for a more robust flavor profile.
- Make It Spicy: For a little heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Use a Fine Powder: Blending the ingredients well ensures the bouillon dissolves easily in hot liquids.
- Make a Bulk Batch: Double or triple the recipe and store extra in small containers for easy access.
Homemade Bouillon Powder – A Flavorful Kitchen Staple
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: ¾ cup of bouillon powder (approx. 36 servings) 1x
Description
This Homemade Bouillon Powder is a flavorful, all-purpose seasoning that adds depth to soups, stews, and vegetable dishes. Made with simple, natural ingredients, it’s a perfect alternative to store-bought bouillon cubes, giving you full control over the flavors and sodium content.
Ingredients
- ½ cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon celery seed (or celery salt, adjusting other salt accordingly)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Blend the Ingredients – Combine all ingredients in a food processor, blender, or spice grinder. Pulse until you achieve a fine, even powder.
- Store the Powder – Transfer to an airtight container or spice jar and keep in a cool, dry place. It will stay fresh for up to 6 months.
- Use as Needed – Mix 1 teaspoon of bouillon powder with 1 cup of hot water to create an instant broth. Sprinkle directly onto dishes like vegetables, rice, or soups for extra flavor.
Notes
- For a low-sodium version, reduce or omit the salt and adjust to taste when cooking.
- If you want a smoky depth, add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika.
- Mushroom powder can be used instead of nutritional yeast for a different umami flavor.
- This bouillon powder works as a vegan and gluten-free alternative to store-bought broth cubes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Bouillon Powder
1. Can I Make This Bouillon Powder Without Nutritional Yeast?
Yes! While nutritional yeast adds a rich umami flavor, you can substitute it with a blend of ground dried mushrooms or a mix of extra dried herbs and spices. However, the taste may be slightly different, so adjust the seasonings to your preference.
2. Is This Bouillon Powder Vegan and Gluten-Free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs. Just make sure all your individual spices and seasonings are labeled gluten-free if you have a sensitivity.
3. Can I Use Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried Ones?
It’s best to stick with dried herbs for this bouillon powder since fresh herbs contain moisture and can cause the mixture to spoil quickly. If you prefer fresh herbs, add them directly to your soups or stews rather than mixing them into the powder.
4. How Can I Use This Bouillon Powder Without Dissolving It in Water?
This bouillon powder is more than just a broth base! You can sprinkle it directly onto:
- Roasted vegetables for extra depth
- Popcorn for a savory, cheesy-like flavor
- Rice, quinoa, or pasta while cooking
- Scrambled eggs or tofu for a flavor boost
- Homemade salad dressings for an umami kick