🌿 Spices & Herbs

Savory Spice Substitute: Best Alternatives & Ratios

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

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Quick Answer

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

Best Substitutes

Thyme

1:1

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

Best for:

cookingbakingsoupsstewsroasted vegetables

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

Oregano

1:1

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

Best for:

Italian dishesMediterranean cookingpizzapasta sauces

More pungent than savory spice but works well in hearty dishes

Marjoram + Sage

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

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

Best for:

stuffingsausagesbean dishesroasted meats

Best for dishes where savory spice is a primary flavor

Marjoram

1:1

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

Best for:

soupsstewsvegetable dishesstuffing

Milder than savory spice but similar warmth

Sage

1:1

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

Best for:

stuffingpoultryporkbean dishes

More bitter than savory spice but similar earthiness

Cooking Tips

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best substitute for savory spice?

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

Can I use oregano instead of savory spice?

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

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

What spices work best together as a savory spice substitute?

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

Can I use sage instead of savory spice?

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