🌿 Spices & Herbs

Dried Savory Substitutes: Complete Guide

Discover the best dried savory substitutes for cooking and seasoning. Learn about dried thyme, oregano, and other herb alternatives with proper ratios and cooking tips.

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Quick Answer

The best dried savory substitute is dried thyme (1:1 ratio) or dried oregano (1:1 ratio). For a more complex flavor, use a combination of dried marjoram and dried sage (1 tsp dried savory = 1/2 tsp dried marjoram + 1/2 tsp dried sage).

Best Substitutes

Dried Thyme

1:1

The closest substitute to dried savory with similar earthy, slightly minty flavor that works in most applications

Best for:

cookingbakingsoupsstewsroasted vegetables

Most similar flavor profile to dried savory, works in 90% of recipes

Dried Oregano

1:1

Mediterranean herb with robust flavor that complements many dishes dried savory is used in

Best for:

Italian dishesMediterranean cookingpizzapasta sauces

More pungent than dried savory but works well in hearty dishes

Dried Marjoram + Dried Sage

1 tsp dried savory = 1/2 tsp dried marjoram + 1/2 tsp dried sage

Combination that mimics dried savory's complexity and earthy flavor profile

Best for:

stuffingsausagesbean dishesroasted meats

Best for dishes where dried savory is a primary flavor

Dried Marjoram

1:1

Sweet, mild herb that provides similar warmth and depth to dried savory

Best for:

soupsstewsvegetable dishesstuffing

Milder than dried savory but similar warmth

Dried Sage

1:1

Earthy herb with slightly bitter notes that works well in savory applications

Best for:

stuffingpoultryporkbean dishes

More bitter than dried savory but similar earthiness

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Add dried savory substitutes early in cooking to allow their flavors to develop
  • 💡Dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh, so use about 1/3 the amount of fresh herbs
  • 💡Dried savory substitutes work best in dishes with longer cooking times where flavors can meld
  • 💡When using dried oregano as a savory substitute, use slightly less as it's more pungent
  • 💡Dried thyme works particularly well in poultry and vegetable dishes that traditionally use dried savory
  • 💡For stuffing and dressing, a combination of dried marjoram and dried sage works excellently
  • 💡In soups and stews, dried herbs can be added at the beginning of cooking
  • 💡When substituting fresh herbs for dried savory, use about 3 times the amount

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best substitute for dried savory?

Dried thyme is the best substitute for dried savory. It has a similar earthy, slightly minty flavor profile and works well in most dishes where dried savory is used.

Can I use dried oregano instead of dried savory?

Yes, dried oregano can work as a dried savory substitute, especially in Mediterranean dishes. However, it has a more pungent flavor, so use slightly less than the recipe calls for.

How do I substitute fresh savory for dried?

Use about 3 times the amount of fresh savory compared to dried. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon dried savory, use 1 tablespoon fresh savory.

What herbs work best together as a dried savory substitute?

A combination of dried marjoram and dried sage (1/2 tsp each for 1 tsp dried savory) works well, as does dried thyme with a pinch of dried marjoram for added complexity.

Can I use dried sage instead of dried savory?

Yes, dried sage can work as a dried savory substitute, especially in stuffing and bean dishes. However, it has a more bitter flavor, so it works best in hearty dishes.

Summary

Find the best dried savory substitutes including dried thyme, oregano, and herb combinations. Learn proper ratios and cooking tips for perfect results in your recipes.