🌿 Spices & Herbs

Savory Substitute for Herbes de Provence: & Ratios

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

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Quick Answer

The best savory substitute for herbes de provence 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 in herbes de provence with similar earthy, slightly minty flavor

Best for:

French cookingroasted vegetablesgrilled meatssoupsstews

Most similar flavor profile to savory, works in 90% of herbes de provence applications

Oregano

1:1

Mediterranean herb with robust flavor that complements the other herbs in herbes de provence

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 in herbes de provence

Best for:

stuffingsausagesbean dishesroasted meats

Best for dishes where savory is a primary flavor in the herb blend

Marjoram

1:1

Sweet, mild herb that provides similar warmth and depth to savory in herbes de provence

Best for:

soupsstewsvegetable dishesstuffing

Milder than savory but similar warmth

Sage

1:1

Earthy herb with slightly bitter notes that works well in herbes de provence 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 herbes de provence
  • 💡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 savory substitute for herbes de provence?

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

Can I use oregano instead of savory in herbes de provence?

Yes, oregano can work as a savory substitute in herbes de provence, 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 in herbes de provence?

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 in herbes de provence?

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 in herbes de provence?

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