Mustard greens substitutes
Mustard greens substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Kale
Same amount as the mustard greens
Similar leafy vegetable with more intense flavor.
The best substitutes for mustard greens are kale, collard greens, or other leafy greens like spinach or arugula, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- You'll taste it
- Best for —
- cooking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of mustard greens | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kalecooking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 2 | Collard greenscooking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 3 | Spinachcooking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 4 | Arugulasalads | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Bok choycooking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 6 | Turnip greenscooking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Kale
different taste and texture
Similar leafy vegetable with more intense flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, stir-fries, soups, stews
More intense flavor, different texture.
Collard greens
different taste and texture
Similar leafy vegetable with more intense flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, stir-fries, soups, stews
More intense flavor, different texture.
Spinach
different taste and texture
Similar leafy vegetable with mild flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, stir-fries, soups, stews
More delicate, different texture.
Arugula
similar taste, different texture
Similar leafy vegetable with peppery flavor.
- Best for
- salads, wraps, garnishes, cooking
More peppery, different texture.
Bok choy
different taste and texture
Similar leafy vegetable with mild flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, stir-fries, soups, stews
Similar flavor, different texture.
Turnip greens
different taste and texture
Similar leafy vegetable with more intense flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, stir-fries, soups, stews
More intense flavor, different texture.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use kale instead of mustard greens?
Yes, kale is a good substitute for mustard greens. It has similar texture and can be used in most recipes that call for mustard greens.
What's the difference between mustard greens and kale?
Mustard greens have a peppery, slightly bitter flavor, while kale has a more intense, earthy flavor. Both have similar texture and can be used similarly in cooking.
Can I use collard greens instead of mustard greens?
Yes, collard greens can work as a substitute, though they have a more intense flavor. They have similar texture and can be used in most recipes.
Why are mustard greens so popular in Southern cooking?
Mustard greens are popular in Southern cooking because they add peppery, slightly bitter flavor that complements the ingredients and cooking styles of Southern cuisine.
Tips for substituting mustard greens
6 tips- Mustard greens add peppery, slightly bitter flavor to dishes
- Mustard greens can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Mustard greens pair well with herbs, spices, and vegetables
- Mustard greens work well in stir-fries and soups
- Mustard greens can be used to make salads and wraps
- Store mustard greens in the refrigerator