How Much is One Cube of Chicken Bouillon? A Comprehensive Guide

Chicken bouillon cubes are a pantry staple that can add rich, savory flavor to a variety of dishes But if you’re new to cooking with bouillon cubes, you may be wondering – how much is actually in one cube? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll breakdown everything you need to know about the quantity, price, and usage tips for chicken bouillon cubes.

What is Chicken Bouillon?

Before diving into the size and cost of bouillon cubes, let’s quickly go over what they actually are. Chicken bouillon is a highly concentrated chicken stock that has been dehydrated and formed into small cubes. It’s made by simmering chicken bones, meat, and vegetables to extract flavor. The stock is then reduced down to intensify the taste before being dried.

The result is a handy cube that provides instant chicken flavor to recipes. Bouillon cubes are sold by brands like Knorr, Maggi and Wyler’s. They can be found in the soup aisle of most grocery stores.

How Much is in One Cube of Bouillon?

So how much chicken bouillon is actually in one cube? The standard size is about 0.35 ounces or 10 grams. However, there can be slight variation between brands. Knorr chicken bouillon cubes weigh 0.38 ounces each. Maggi cubes are 0.32 ounces. Wyler’s are 0.33 ounces per cube.

To put that in perspective, a single bouillon cube is about the same weight as:

• 2 quarters
• 5 standard dice
• 1.5 tablespoons of water

While the cubes are small, they pack a concentrated punch of flavor. One cube is designed to season a full 8 cups of water or broth.

How Much Does One Bouillon Cube Cost?

Pricing for bouillon cubes can range from $0.10 to $0.30 per cube. Much like their weight, cost depends on the brand. Store brands and generic options tend to be at the lower end of the spectrum. Premium brands like Knorr are more expensive.

When purchasing bouillon cubes, here are some ways to get the best deal:

• Buy in bulk. Multi-packs offer a lower cost per cube. A box of 36 may be just a few dollars more than a box of 12.

• Look for sales and coupons. Stock up when bouillon cubes are on promotion. Printable coupons can also lower the price.

• Consider store brands. Opting for the grocery store’s generic brand over a name brand can save money. Just check the ingredients first to make sure the quality is acceptable.

• Buy in ethnic markets. Bouillon cubes are very popular in a variety of cuisines. Check Mexican, Asian, and Halal markets for good deals.

How to Use Chicken Bouillon Cubes

Using chicken bouillon cubes is very straightforward. Here are some simple tips:

• Dissolve – Place the cube in a cup and add 1-2 cups hot water. Stir until the cube fully dissolves. Adjust the amount of water to control the strength of the broth.

• Substitute for chicken broth – Use bouillon broth in place of plain chicken broth or stock in recipes. Two cubes + 4 cups water = 8 cups broth.

• Boost flavor – Add a dissolved cube to rice, pasta water, soups, braises, etc. It infuses dishes with savory chicken essence.

• Use in marinades – Dissolve 1-2 cubes in the liquid for extra flavorful marinades. Works great in salad dressings too.

• Make gravy – Whisk a cube into pan drippings for rich, meaty gravy.

• Use in vegetables – For veggie sides with a meaty taste, boil or roast them in bouillon broth instead of plain water.

Common Questions

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about chicken bouillon cubes:

Are bouillon cubes gluten free? Some brands contain gluten while others are certified gluten free. Check the packaging if you have an intolerance.

Do bouillon cubes contain MSG? Some do, while others use natural flavors. Again, read the label if avoiding MSG.

How long do they last? Bouillon cubes typically stay fresh for 1-2 years when stored properly in a cool, dry pantry.

Can you freeze them? You can, but freezing isn’t necessary. It may actually compromise texture and flavor.

Are there low-sodium options? Yes! Look for low-sodium or no-salt added varieties if limiting salt intake.

Can vegetarians eat bouillon cubes? Traditional chicken bouillon is not vegetarian. However, vegetarian/vegan versions made from vegetables and spices are available.

Conclusion

Now that you know precisely how much one chicken bouillon cube weighs and costs, you can use them like a pro! Enjoy enhanced flavor in everything from rice to veggies. Just remember to start with 1 cube per 2 cups liquid and adjust the broth strength to your taste. With proper storage, your bouillon cubes can last over a year. So don’t be afraid to buy in bulk to maximize value. Happy cooking with concentrated flavor in a compact cube!