🌿 Spices & Herbs

Can You Substitute Thyme for Tarragon? Best Options

✓

Quick Answer

Thyme can substitute for tarragon in some dishes, but they have different flavors. Thyme is earthy and minty, while tarragon is anise-like. Use 1:1 ratio but expect a different flavor profile.

Best Substitutes

Fresh Thyme

1:1

Earthy, minty herb that works in many of the same applications as tarragon

Best for:

saucesmarinadesroasted meatsvegetablessoups

Different flavor profile - earthy vs anise-like. Works well in savory dishes.

Dried Thyme

1:1

Concentrated form of thyme with more intense earthy flavor

Best for:

saucesmarinadesrubssoupsstews

Add earlier in cooking to allow rehydration and flavor release

Lemon Thyme

1:1

Thyme variety with citrus notes that brightens dishes

Best for:

fish disheschickenvegetableslight sauces

Adds brightness that can compensate for tarragon's anise notes

Thyme + Fennel Seeds

2:1 thyme to fennel

Combination that adds anise notes to thyme's earthy base

Best for:

saucesmarinadesroasted dishes

Crush fennel seeds slightly to release anise flavor

Thyme + Dill

1:1

Earthy thyme with fresh dill for herbaceous complexity

Best for:

fish disheschickenvegetableslight sauces

Creates a different but pleasant herbaceous profile

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Thyme can handle longer cooking times than tarragon
  • 💡Strip thyme leaves from stems before using, or add whole sprigs and remove before serving
  • 💡Thyme pairs well with garlic, lemon, and other robust flavors
  • 💡Use fresh thyme for finishing dishes, dried for long-cooking recipes
  • 💡Thyme works well in Mediterranean and French cuisines

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between thyme and tarragon?

Thyme has an earthy, minty flavor, while tarragon has an anise-like, licorice flavor. They're used in different types of dishes and cuisines.

Can I use thyme instead of tarragon in béarnaise sauce?

You can, but it will change the sauce's flavor profile significantly. Béarnaise traditionally relies on tarragon's anise flavor.

Which herb is stronger - thyme or tarragon?

Dried thyme is more concentrated than fresh tarragon, but fresh tarragon has a more distinctive, assertive flavor than fresh thyme.

Can I grow thyme and tarragon together?

Yes, both herbs can be grown in the same herb garden. They have similar growing requirements and complement each other well.

What dishes work best with thyme instead of tarragon?

Thyme works well in roasted meats, vegetables, soups, and hearty sauces where its earthy flavor complements the dish.

Summary

Learn if you can substitute thyme for tarragon and vice versa. Discover the differences, best uses, and proper ratios for these herbs in cooking.