Out of Nutmeg, one case
Nutmeg substitute for savory dishes
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Allspice
Same amount as the nutmeg
The best nutmeg substitute for savory dishes is allspice (1:1 ratio) or cinnamon (1:1 ratio). For a more complex flavor, use a combination of allspice and cloves (1 tsp nutmeg = ½ tsp allspice + ¼ tsp cloves).
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- savory stews
One casethe full savory card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of nutmeg | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Allspicesavory stews | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Cinnamonsavory stews | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Allspice + clovessavory stews | ½ tsp allspice + ¼ tsp cloves per 1 tsp nutmegWorks | Works |
| 4 | Clovessavory stews | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Gingersavory stews | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Allspice
similar taste and texture
The closest substitute to nutmeg in savory dishes with similar warm, slightly sweet flavor
- Best for
- savory stews, savory soups, savory sauces, savory marinades
Most similar flavor profile to nutmeg, works in 90% of savory applications.
Cinnamon
similar taste and texture
Warm spice with sweet, woody flavor that complements many savory dishes
- Best for
- savory stews, savory soups, savory sauces, savory marinades
More sweet than nutmeg but works well in hearty savory dishes.
Allspice + cloves
similar taste and texture
Combination that mimics nutmeg's complexity and warm flavor profile in savory dishes
- Best for
- savory stews, savory soups, savory sauces, savory marinades
Best for dishes where nutmeg is a primary flavor.
Cloves
similar taste and texture
Warm spice with slightly bitter, sweet flavor that works well in savory applications
- Best for
- savory stews, savory soups, savory sauces, savory marinades
More bitter than nutmeg but similar warmth.
Ginger
different taste, similar texture
Warm spice with slightly sweet, slightly spicy flavor that complements savory dishes
- Best for
- savory stews, savory soups, savory sauces, savory marinades
More spicy than nutmeg but similar warmth.
How it behaves in this recipe
When substituting for nutmeg in savory dishes, it's important to consider that nutmeg has a unique warm, slightly sweet flavor that works particularly well in hearty dishes. Choose substitutes that can provide similar warmth and depth without being too sweet.
Tips for substituting nutmeg
8 tips- Add nutmeg substitutes early in cooking to allow their flavors to develop
- For ground spices, use about 1/3 the amount of fresh versions
- Nutmeg substitutes work best in dishes with longer cooking times where flavors can meld
- When using cinnamon as a nutmeg substitute, use slightly less as it's more sweet
- Allspice works particularly well in hearty savory dishes that traditionally use nutmeg
- For savory stews and soups, a combination of allspice and cloves works excellently
- In savory sauces, ground spices work better than whole spices
- When substituting fresh nutmeg for ground, use about 3 times the amount
Notes on nutmeg
- If you don't have any spices, try using a small amount of pumpkin pie spice (which often contains nutmeg) mixed with allspice
- For a completely different approach, use a small amount of fennel seeds or caraway seeds for earthy depth
- In Mediterranean dishes, a combination of basil and oregano can sometimes work as a nutmeg substitute in savory dishes
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best nutmeg substitute for savory dishes?
Allspice is the best substitute for nutmeg in savory dishes. It has a similar warm, slightly sweet flavor profile and works well in most savory recipes where nutmeg is used.
Can I use cinnamon instead of nutmeg in savory dishes?
Yes, cinnamon can work as a nutmeg substitute in savory dishes, especially in hearty stews and soups. However, it has a sweeter flavor, so use slightly less than the recipe calls for.
How do I substitute ground nutmeg for fresh?
Use about 1/3 the amount of ground nutmeg compared to fresh. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 tablespoon fresh nutmeg, use 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg.
What spices work best together as a nutmeg substitute in savory dishes?
A combination of allspice and cloves (½ tsp allspice + ¼ tsp cloves for 1 tsp nutmeg) works well, as does allspice with a pinch of ginger for added complexity.
Can I use cloves instead of nutmeg in savory dishes?
Yes, cloves can work as a nutmeg substitute in savory dishes, especially in hearty stews and soups. However, they have a more bitter flavor, so use slightly less than the recipe calls for.