🌿 Spices & Herbs

Lemongrass Substitute for Lemon Balm

Learn whether you can substitute lemongrass for lemon balm and vice versa. Discover the differences, similarities, and best uses for each herb in cooking and teas.

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Quick Answer

Lemongrass can be used as a substitute for lemon balm in some dishes, but they have different flavor profiles. Lemongrass is more earthy and intense, while lemon balm is milder and more herbal. Use lemongrass for Asian dishes and lemon balm for teas and desserts.

Best Substitutes

Lemongrass

1:1

Earthy, citrusy herb that can substitute for lemon balm in certain dishes

Best for:

Asian cookingsoupscurriesmarinades

More intense and earthy than lemon balm, use slightly less

Lemon Balm

1:1

Mild, herbal citrus herb that can substitute for lemongrass in some dishes

Best for:

teasdessertslight cookingsalads

Milder than lemongrass, use more for similar intensity

Lemon Verbena

1:1

Intense citrus herb that works well as a middle ground between the two

Best for:

cookingteasdessertsseasoning

More intense than lemon balm, less earthy than lemongrass

Lemon Thyme

1:1

Herbal citrus herb that provides a good balance between the two

Best for:

cookingseasoningmarinadessavory dishes

Herbal with citrus notes, good for savory applications

Lemon Zest

1:1

Pure citrus flavor that can work in place of both herbs

Best for:

cookingbakingdessertsseasoning

Pure citrus flavor, no herbal or earthy notes

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Lemongrass is best for Asian dishes, soups, and curries
  • 💡Lemon balm is better for teas, desserts, and light cooking
  • 💡Lemongrass stalks are fibrous and should be removed before serving
  • 💡Lemon balm leaves can be eaten and add texture to dishes
  • 💡Use lemongrass for savory dishes, lemon balm for sweet dishes
  • 💡Lemongrass needs to be bruised or chopped to release flavor
  • 💡Lemon balm is delicate and should be added at the end of cooking
  • 💡Both herbs pair well with coconut milk and tropical flavors

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

Learn whether you can substitute lemongrass for lemon balm and vice versa. Discover the differences, similarities, and best uses for each herb in cooking and teas.