Out of Winter savory, one case
Winter savory substitute
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Thyme
Same amount as the winter savory
The best winter 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 winter savory = ½ tsp marjoram + ½ tsp sage).
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- cooking
One casethe full savory card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of winter savory | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thymecooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | OreganoItalian dishes | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Marjoram + sagestuffing | ½ tsp marjoram + ½ tsp sage per 1 tsp winter savoryWorks | Works |
| 4 | Marjoramsoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Sagestuffing | Same amountWorks | Works |
Thyme
similar taste and texture
The closest substitute to winter savory with similar earthy, slightly minty flavor that works in most applications
- Best for
- cooking, baking, soups, stews, roasted vegetables
Most similar flavor profile to winter savory, works in 90% of recipes.
Oregano
similar taste and texture
Mediterranean herb with robust flavor that complements many dishes winter savory is used in
- Best for
- Italian dishes, Mediterranean cooking, pizza, pasta sauces
More pungent than winter savory but works well in hearty dishes.
Marjoram + sage
similar taste and texture
Combination that mimics winter savory's complexity and earthy flavor profile
- Best for
- stuffing, sausages, bean dishes, roasted meats
Best for dishes where winter savory is a primary flavor.
Marjoram
similar taste and texture
Sweet, mild herb that provides similar warmth and depth to winter savory
- Best for
- soups, stews, vegetable dishes, stuffing
Milder than winter savory but similar warmth.
Sage
similar taste and texture
Earthy herb with slightly bitter notes that works well in savory applications
- Best for
- stuffing, poultry, pork, bean dishes
More bitter than winter savory but similar earthiness.
How it behaves in this recipe
When substituting for winter savory, it's important to consider that winter savory has a stronger, more pungent flavor than summer savory. Choose substitutes that can provide similar depth and intensity, especially in hearty winter dishes.
Tips for substituting winter savory
8 tips- Add winter savory substitutes towards the end of cooking to preserve their delicate flavors
- For fresh herbs, use 3 times more than dried versions
- Winter savory substitutes work best in dishes with longer cooking times where flavors can meld
- When using oregano as a winter savory substitute, use slightly less as it's more pungent
- Thyme works particularly well in poultry and vegetable dishes that traditionally use winter 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 winter savory, use about 1/3 the amount
Notes on winter savory
- If you don't have any herbs, try using a small amount of poultry seasoning (which often contains winter savory) 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 winter savory substitute
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best substitute for winter savory?
Thyme is the best substitute for winter savory. It has a similar earthy, slightly minty flavor profile and works well in most dishes where winter savory is used.
Can I use oregano instead of winter savory?
Yes, oregano can work as a winter 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 winter savory for fresh?
Use about 1/3 the amount of dried winter savory compared to fresh. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 tablespoon fresh winter savory, use 1 teaspoon dried winter savory.
What herbs work best together as a winter savory substitute?
A combination of marjoram and sage (½ tsp each for 1 tsp winter savory) works well, as does thyme with a pinch of marjoram for added complexity.
Can I use sage instead of winter savory?
Yes, sage can work as a winter savory substitute, especially in stuffing and bean dishes. However, it has a more bitter flavor, so it works best in hearty dishes.