Lemongrass substitutes
Lemongrass substitutes — 3 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Lemon zest
Same amount as the lemongrass
Similar flavor with different source.
The best substitutes for lemongrass are lemon zest, lemon balm, or lemon verbena, depending on the use.
Lemongrass is there for its perfume alone — a citrusy, grassy smell it lends to the liquid around it — and because the woody stalk is fished out before serving, no swap can hurt the texture of the dish.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- similar taste, different texture
- Best for —
- cooking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
- Jobs
- Aroma & flavor identityprimary
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of lemongrass | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lemon zestcooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Lemon balmcooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Lemon verbenacooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Lemon zest
similar taste, different texture
Similar flavor with different source.
- Covers
- Aroma & flavor identity
- Best for
- cooking, seasoning, marinades, soups
Different source, similar flavor - more concentrated.
Lemon balm
different taste, similar texture
Similar herb with different flavor.
- Covers
- Aroma & flavor identity
- Best for
- cooking, seasoning, marinades, soups
Different flavor, similar texture - more minty.
Lemon verbena
different taste, similar texture
Similar herb with different flavor.
- Covers
- Aroma & flavor identity
- Best for
- cooking, seasoning, marinades, soups
Different flavor, similar texture - more floral.
Questions
5 questionsCan I use lemon zest instead of lemongrass?
Yes, lemon zest is a good substitute for lemongrass, but it's more concentrated and has a different texture.
What's the difference between lemongrass and lemon zest?
Lemongrass has a more complex, earthy flavor, while lemon zest is more concentrated and has a pure citrus flavor.
Can I use lemongrass in non-Asian dishes?
Yes, lemongrass can be used in various dishes, but it will add a distinctive citrusy, lemony flavor.
How do I prepare lemongrass?
Remove the outer layers and the top part, then bruise the stalk to release flavor before adding to dishes.
Can I eat lemongrass?
The stalk is too fibrous to eat, but you can use it to flavor dishes and remove it before serving.
Tips for substituting lemongrass
6 tips- Lemongrass has a unique citrusy, lemony flavor that's hard to replicate
- It's commonly used in Thai, Vietnamese, and Indonesian cooking
- Lemongrass is best bruised or chopped before using to release its flavor
- It pairs well with chilies, garlic, and coconut milk
- Remove the outer layers and tough top part before using
- Store fresh lemongrass in the refrigerator wrapped in damp paper towels