🌿 Spices & Herbs

Savory Substitute: Best Alternatives & Ratios for Cooking

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

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Quick Answer

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

Best Substitutes

Thyme

1:1

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

Best for:

cookingbakingsoupsstewsroasted vegetables

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

Oregano

1:1

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

Best for:

Italian dishesMediterranean cookingpizzapasta sauces

More pungent than savory but works well in hearty dishes

Marjoram + Sage

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

Combination that mimics savory's complexity and earthy flavor profile

Best for:

stuffingsausagesbean dishesroasted meats

Best for dishes where savory is a primary flavor

Marjoram

1:1

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

Best for:

soupsstewsvegetable dishesstuffing

Milder than savory but similar warmth

Sage

1:1

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

Best for:

stuffingpoultryporkbean dishes

More bitter than savory but similar earthiness

Cooking Tips

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best general substitute for savory?

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

Can I use oregano instead of savory?

Yes, oregano can work as a savory 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 for fresh?

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

What herbs work best together as a savory substitute?

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

Can I use sage instead of savory?

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