Out of Sage, one case
Sage substitute for soup: herbs & seasoning
6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Thyme
Same amount as the sage
The best sage substitute for soup is thyme (1:1 ratio) or bay leaves (1:1 ratio). A combination of thyme and marjoram (1 tsp sage = ½ tsp thyme + ½ tsp marjoram) also works excellently in soups.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- chicken soup
One casethe full sage card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of sage | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thymechicken soup | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Bay leavesbeef soup | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 3 | Thyme + marjoramherb soup | ½ tsp thyme + ½ tsp marjoram per 1 tsp sageWorks | Works |
| 4 | Savorybean soup | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Rosemarybeef soup | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Oregano + thymeItalian soup | ½ tsp oregano + ½ tsp thyme per 1 tsp sageTweak it | Tweak it |
Thyme
similar taste and texture
The closest substitute to sage in soup with earthy, slightly minty flavor that adds depth to broths and stews
- Best for
- chicken soup, vegetable soup, bean soup, pumpkin soup
More delicate than sage but provides similar earthy depth.
Bay leaves
different taste and texture
Aromatic leaves that provide similar earthy depth and complexity to soups
- Best for
- beef soup, vegetable soup, bean soup, stews
Remove before serving, provides depth without the same flavor.
Thyme + marjoram
similar taste and texture
Combination that mimics sage's complexity and earthy flavor in soup
- Best for
- herb soup, vegetable soup, chicken soup, pumpkin soup
Provides the complexity of sage with complementary flavors.
Savory
similar taste and texture
Herb with similar earthy, slightly peppery flavor that works well in soup
- Best for
- bean soup, vegetable soup, pumpkin soup, herb soup
More peppery than sage but similar earthiness.
Rosemary
different taste, similar texture
Strong herb with piney notes that adds depth to hearty soups
- Best for
- beef soup, lamb soup, hearty vegetable soup, bean soup
More piney than sage, use sparingly to avoid overpowering.
Oregano + thyme
different taste, similar texture
Mediterranean herb combination that works well in soup
- Best for
- Italian soup, vegetable soup, chicken soup, herb soup
Slightly different flavor profile but works well in soup.
How it behaves in this recipe
Soup recipes rely on sage for its earthy, slightly bitter flavor that adds depth and complexity to broths and stews. The best substitutes should provide similar depth while working well with the long cooking times typical of soup preparation.
Tips for substituting sage
8 tips- For soup, add herbs early in the cooking process to allow flavors to develop
- If using bay leaves, add them whole and remove before serving
- Fresh herbs should be added towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor
- Dried herbs can be added earlier as they need time to rehydrate and release flavor
- For creamy soups, thyme works particularly well as a sage substitute
- In bean soups, a combination of thyme and marjoram provides excellent flavor
- If using poultry seasoning, taste first as it may already contain sage
- For vegetarian soups, thyme and marjoram combination works beautifully
Notes on sage
- If you don't have any herbs, try using a small amount of celery salt mixed with a pinch of ground thyme
- For a completely different approach, use a small amount of ground fennel seeds for earthy depth
- In creamy soups, a combination of thyme and a pinch of ground sage (if available) works well
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best sage substitute for chicken soup?
Thyme is the best sage substitute for chicken soup. It has a similar earthy flavor that complements chicken and vegetables well.
Can I use bay leaves instead of sage in soup?
Yes, bay leaves can work as a sage substitute in soup, especially in hearty soups and stews. They provide similar earthy depth, though with a different flavor profile.
How do I substitute fresh sage for dried in soup?
Use about 1/3 the amount of dried sage compared to fresh. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 tablespoon fresh sage, use 1 teaspoon dried sage.
What herbs work best together as a sage substitute in soup?
A combination of thyme and marjoram (½ tsp each for 1 tsp sage) works excellently in soup, providing similar complexity and earthy flavor.
Can I use rosemary instead of sage in soup?
Yes, rosemary can work as a sage substitute in soup, especially in hearty or bean soups. Use it sparingly as it has a stronger, more piney flavor.