Google has launched a new feature called SGE for Recipe Substitutions. This tool helps home cooks find easy swaps when they are missing an ingredient. It uses Google’s Search Generative Experience to give clear, practical answers right in the search results. Users can now type questions like “What can I use instead of buttermilk?” and get helpful suggestions fast.
(Google’s “SGE for Recipe Substitutions” and Niche Food Content)
The update focuses on niche food content that many people struggle to find. Google says it trained its AI on trusted cooking sources and real user queries. This makes the answers more accurate and useful for everyday cooking. The system understands common pantry items and dietary needs, so it offers substitutions that actually work.
People often stop cooking when they lack one ingredient. Google hopes this feature will keep them going. The tool shows options based on what is likely already in the kitchen. It also explains why each substitute works, so users feel confident trying it.
This change is part of Google’s effort to make search more helpful for specific, real-life tasks. Food-related searches make up a big part of daily queries. Many of these are about quick fixes or alternatives. Google’s new system aims to cut through the noise and give straight answers without extra steps.
(Google’s “SGE for Recipe Substitutions” and Niche Food Content)
The feature is now live in the U.S. for users who have SGE turned on. It appears when someone searches for recipe help or ingredient swaps. Google plans to expand it to more regions and languages later this year. For now, it supports common substitutions like dairy-free, gluten-free, and egg replacements. The goal is to make cooking less stressful and more accessible for everyone.

