Lemon Balm Leaves Substitute - Fresh and Dried Alternatives
Find the best substitutes for lemon balm leaves including fresh and dried alternatives like lemon verbena, lemon thyme, and lemon zest for cooking and teas.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for lemon balm leaves are lemon verbena, lemon thyme, or lemon zest. Lemon verbena provides the most similar flavor profile, while lemon thyme offers a more herbal note, and lemon zest gives pure citrus flavor.
Best Substitutes
Lemon Verbena Leaves
1:1Fresh or dried lemon verbena leaves provide the most similar flavor to lemon balm
Best for:
More intense flavor than lemon balm, use slightly less
Lemon Thyme Leaves
1:1Fresh or dried lemon thyme provides a herbal citrus flavor
Best for:
More herbal flavor than lemon balm, good for savory dishes
Lemon Zest
1:1Fresh lemon zest provides pure citrus flavor without herbal notes
Best for:
More concentrated flavor, use sparingly
Lemon Basil Leaves
1:1Fresh lemon basil provides a sweet, citrusy flavor with herbal notes
Best for:
Sweet, citrusy flavor with basil undertones
Dried Lemon Balm
1:1Dried lemon balm leaves provide the same flavor in concentrated form
Best for:
Use half the amount of fresh leaves
Cooking Tips
- 💡Fresh herbs are always preferred over dried for the best flavor
- 💡Lemon verbena is the closest substitute in terms of flavor profile
- 💡Use lemon thyme for savory dishes where you want herbal notes
- 💡Lemon zest works best in baking and desserts
- 💡Dried herbs are more concentrated - use half the amount of fresh
- 💡Add herbs at the end of cooking to preserve their delicate flavors
- 💡Store fresh herbs in the refrigerator wrapped in damp paper towels
- 💡Freeze fresh herbs in ice cube trays with water for longer storage
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best substitute for lemon balm leaves?
Lemon verbena leaves are the best substitute as they have the most similar flavor profile. Lemon thyme is also excellent, especially for savory dishes, while lemon zest works well for baking and desserts.
Can I use dried lemon balm instead of fresh?
Yes, dried lemon balm can be used instead of fresh, but use half the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated. The flavor will be slightly different but still good.
How do I store fresh lemon balm leaves?
Store fresh lemon balm leaves in the refrigerator wrapped in damp paper towels, or freeze them in ice cube trays with water. They'll keep for about a week in the fridge.
Can I use lemon balm leaves in cooking?
Yes, lemon balm leaves can be used in cooking, but add them at the end of cooking to preserve their delicate flavor. They work well in salads, desserts, and light dishes.
What's the difference between lemon balm and lemon verbena?
Lemon balm has a milder, more subtle flavor, while lemon verbena is more intense and floral. Both have citrus notes, but lemon verbena is stronger and more aromatic.
Summary
Discover the best substitutes for lemon balm leaves including lemon verbena, lemon thyme, and lemon zest. Learn proper ratios and cooking techniques for fresh and dried alternatives.