Ground Savory Substitute: Best Alternatives & Ratios
Discover the best ground savory substitutes for cooking and seasoning. Learn about ground thyme, oregano, and other ground herb alternatives with proper ratios and cooking tips.
Quick Answer
The best ground savory substitute is ground thyme (1:1 ratio) or ground oregano (1:1 ratio). For a more complex flavor, use a combination of ground marjoram and ground sage (1 tsp ground savory = 1/2 tsp ground marjoram + 1/2 tsp ground sage).
Best Substitutes
Ground Thyme
1:1The closest substitute to ground savory with similar earthy, slightly minty flavor that works in most applications
Best for:
Most similar flavor profile to ground savory, works in 90% of recipes
Ground Oregano
1:1Mediterranean ground herb with robust flavor that complements many dishes ground savory is used in
Best for:
More pungent than ground savory but works well in hearty dishes
Ground Marjoram + Ground Sage
1 tsp ground savory = 1/2 tsp ground marjoram + 1/2 tsp ground sageCombination that mimics ground savory's complexity and earthy flavor profile
Best for:
Best for dishes where ground savory is a primary flavor
Ground Marjoram
1:1Sweet, mild ground herb that provides similar warmth and depth to ground savory
Best for:
Milder than ground savory but similar warmth
Ground Sage
1:1Earthy ground herb with slightly bitter notes that works well in savory applications
Best for:
More bitter than ground savory but similar earthiness
Cooking Tips
- 💡Add ground savory substitutes early in cooking to allow their flavors to develop
- 💡Ground herbs are more concentrated than fresh, so use about 1/3 the amount of fresh herbs
- 💡Ground savory substitutes work best in dishes with longer cooking times where flavors can meld
- 💡When using ground oregano as a savory substitute, use slightly less as it's more pungent
- 💡Ground thyme works particularly well in poultry and vegetable dishes that traditionally use ground savory
- 💡For stuffing and dressing, a combination of ground marjoram and ground sage works excellently
- 💡In soups and stews, ground herbs can be added at the beginning of cooking
- 💡When substituting fresh herbs for ground savory, use about 3 times the amount
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best substitute for ground savory?
Ground thyme is the best substitute for ground savory. It has a similar earthy, slightly minty flavor profile and works well in most dishes where ground savory is used.
Can I use ground oregano instead of ground savory?
Yes, ground oregano can work as a ground 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 ground?
Use about 3 times the amount of fresh savory compared to ground. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon ground savory, use 1 tablespoon fresh savory.
What ground herbs work best together as a ground savory substitute?
A combination of ground marjoram and ground sage (1/2 tsp each for 1 tsp ground savory) works well, as does ground thyme with a pinch of ground marjoram for added complexity.
Can I use ground sage instead of ground savory?
Yes, ground sage can work as a ground 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 ground savory substitutes including ground thyme, oregano, and herb combinations. Learn proper ratios and cooking tips for perfect results in your recipes.