Out of Savory herb, one case
Savory herb substitute
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Thyme
Same amount as the savory herb
The best savory herb substitute is thyme (1:1 ratio) or oregano (1:1 ratio). For a more complex flavor, use a combination of marjoram and sage (1 tsp savory herb = ½ tsp marjoram + ½ tsp sage).
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- cooking
One casethe full savory card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of savory herb | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thymecooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | OreganoItalian dishes | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Marjoram + sagestuffing | ½ tsp marjoram + ½ tsp sage per 1 tsp savory herbWorks | Works |
| 4 | Marjoramsoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Sagestuffing | Same amountWorks | Works |
Thyme
similar taste and texture
The closest substitute to savory herb with similar earthy, slightly minty flavor that works in most applications
- Best for
- cooking, baking, soups, stews, roasted vegetables
Most similar flavor profile to savory herb, works in 90% of recipes.
Oregano
similar taste and texture
Mediterranean herb with robust flavor that complements many dishes savory herb is used in
- Best for
- Italian dishes, Mediterranean cooking, pizza, pasta sauces
More pungent than savory herb but works well in hearty dishes.
Marjoram + sage
similar taste and texture
Combination that mimics savory herb's complexity and earthy flavor profile
- Best for
- stuffing, sausages, bean dishes, roasted meats
Best for dishes where savory herb is a primary flavor.
Marjoram
similar taste and texture
Sweet, mild herb that provides similar warmth and depth to savory herb
- Best for
- soups, stews, vegetable dishes, stuffing
Milder than savory herb but similar warmth.
Sage
similar taste and texture
Earthy herb with slightly bitter notes that works well in savory applications
- Best for
- stuffing, poultry, pork, bean dishes
More bitter than savory herb but similar earthiness.
How it behaves in this recipe
When substituting for savory herb, it's important to consider that savory herb has a unique earthy, slightly peppery flavor that works particularly well in hearty dishes. Choose substitutes that can provide similar depth and warmth.
Tips for substituting savory herb
8 tips- Add savory herb substitutes towards the end of cooking to preserve their delicate flavors
- For fresh herbs, use 3 times more than dried versions
- Savory herb substitutes work best in dishes with longer cooking times where flavors can meld
- When using oregano as a savory herb substitute, use slightly less as it's more pungent
- Thyme works particularly well in poultry and vegetable dishes that traditionally use savory herb
- For stuffing and dressing, a combination of marjoram and sage works excellently
- In soups and stews, bay leaves can provide similar depth without the same flavor profile
- When substituting dried herbs for fresh savory herb, use about 1/3 the amount
Notes on savory herb
- If you don't have any herbs, try using a small amount of poultry seasoning (which often contains savory herb) mixed with thyme
- 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 savory herb substitute
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best substitute for savory herb?
Thyme is the best substitute for savory herb. It has a similar earthy, slightly minty flavor profile and works well in most dishes where savory herb is used.
Can I use oregano instead of savory herb?
Yes, oregano can work as a savory herb 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 dried savory herb for fresh?
Use about 1/3 the amount of dried savory herb compared to fresh. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 tablespoon fresh savory herb, use 1 teaspoon dried savory herb.
What herbs work best together as a savory herb substitute?
A combination of marjoram and sage (½ tsp each for 1 tsp savory herb) works well, as does thyme with a pinch of marjoram for added complexity.
Can I use sage instead of savory herb?
Yes, sage can work as a savory herb substitute, especially in stuffing and bean dishes. However, it has a more bitter flavor, so it works best in hearty dishes.