🌿 Spices & Herbs

Savory Seasoning Substitutes: Best Alternatives

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

✓

Quick Answer

The best savory seasoning 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 seasoning = 1/2 tsp marjoram + 1/2 tsp sage).

Best Substitutes

Thyme

1:1

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

Best for:

cookingbakingsoupsstewsroasted vegetables

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

Oregano

1:1

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

Best for:

Italian dishesMediterranean cookingpizzapasta sauces

More pungent than savory seasoning but works well in hearty dishes

Marjoram + Sage

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

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

Best for:

stuffingsausagesbean dishesroasted meats

Best for dishes where savory seasoning is a primary flavor

Marjoram

1:1

Sweet, mild seasoning that provides similar warmth and depth to savory seasoning

Best for:

soupsstewsvegetable dishesstuffing

Milder than savory seasoning but similar warmth

Sage

1:1

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

Best for:

stuffingpoultryporkbean dishes

More bitter than savory seasoning but similar earthiness

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Add savory seasoning substitutes towards the end of cooking to preserve their delicate flavors
  • 💡For fresh seasonings, use 3 times more than dried versions
  • 💡Savory seasoning substitutes work best in dishes with longer cooking times where flavors can meld
  • 💡When using oregano as a savory seasoning substitute, use slightly less as it's more pungent
  • 💡Thyme works particularly well in poultry and vegetable dishes that traditionally use savory seasoning
  • 💡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 seasonings for fresh savory seasoning, use about 1/3 the amount

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best substitute for savory seasoning?

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

Can I use oregano instead of savory seasoning?

Yes, oregano can work as a savory seasoning 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 seasoning for fresh?

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

What seasonings work best together as a savory seasoning substitute?

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

Can I use sage instead of savory seasoning?

Yes, sage can work as a savory seasoning 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 savory seasoning substitutes including thyme, oregano, and seasoning combinations. Learn proper ratios and cooking tips for perfect results in your recipes.