Out of Savory seasoning, one case
Savory seasoning substitutes
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Thyme
Same amount as the savory seasoning
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 = 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 seasoning | 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 seasoningWorks | Works |
| 4 | Marjoramsoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Sagestuffing | Same amountWorks | Works |
Thyme
similar taste and texture
The closest substitute to savory seasoning 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 seasoning, works in 90% of recipes.
Oregano
similar taste and texture
Mediterranean seasoning with robust flavor that complements many dishes savory seasoning is used in
- Best for
- Italian dishes, Mediterranean cooking, pizza, pasta sauces
More pungent than savory seasoning but works well in hearty dishes.
Marjoram + sage
similar taste and texture
Combination that mimics savory seasoning's complexity and earthy flavor profile
- Best for
- stuffing, sausages, bean dishes, roasted meats
Best for dishes where savory seasoning is a primary flavor.
Marjoram
similar taste and texture
Sweet, mild seasoning that provides similar warmth and depth to savory seasoning
- Best for
- soups, stews, vegetable dishes, stuffing
Milder than savory seasoning but similar warmth.
Sage
similar taste and texture
Earthy seasoning with slightly bitter notes that works well in savory applications
- Best for
- stuffing, poultry, pork, bean dishes
More bitter than savory seasoning but similar earthiness.
How it behaves in this recipe
When substituting for savory seasoning, it's important to consider that savory seasoning 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 seasoning
8 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
Notes on savory seasoning
- If you don't have any seasonings, try using a small amount of poultry seasoning (which often contains savory seasoning) 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 seasoning substitute
Questions
5 questionsWhat'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 (½ 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.