🌿 Spices & Herbs

Dried Thyme Substitute - Best Alternatives for Dried Thyme

Discover the best substitutes for dried thyme in your recipes. Learn about fresh thyme, oregano, marjoram, and other dried herb alternatives with proper ratios.

✓

Quick Answer

The best substitutes for dried thyme are fresh thyme (3:1 ratio), dried oregano (1:1), dried marjoram (1:1), or a combination of dried rosemary and sage (1/2 tsp each per 1 tsp dried thyme).

Best Substitutes

Fresh Thyme

1 tsp dried thyme = 3 tsp fresh thyme

Fresh thyme provides the most authentic flavor replacement for dried thyme

Best for:

cookingmarinadessaucesroasted vegetables

Use 3 times more fresh thyme than dried

Dried Oregano

1:1

Dried oregano has a similar earthy, slightly bitter flavor profile to dried thyme

Best for:

cookingmarinadessaucesroasted vegetables

Similar earthy flavor, slightly more intense

Dried Marjoram

1:1

Dried marjoram offers a similar earthy flavor with a slightly sweeter note

Best for:

cookingmarinadessaucesroasted vegetables

Similar flavor profile, slightly sweeter

Dried Rosemary + Dried Sage

1 tsp dried thyme = 1/2 tsp dried rosemary + 1/2 tsp dried sage

This combination provides the earthy, aromatic qualities of thyme

Best for:

cookingmarinadessaucesroasted vegetables

Combination that mimics thyme's flavor complexity

Dried Savory

1:1

Dried savory has a similar earthy, slightly peppery flavor profile

Best for:

cookingmarinadessaucesroasted vegetables

Similar earthy flavor, slightly more peppery

Dried Basil

1:1

Dried basil offers a different but complementary flavor profile

Best for:

cookingmarinadessauces

More sweet, different flavor profile but works in many dishes

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Dried thyme is more concentrated than fresh - use 1/3 the amount when substituting fresh thyme
  • 💡Crush dried thyme between your fingers before adding to release more flavor
  • 💡Add dried thyme early in cooking to allow flavors to develop
  • 💡Store dried thyme in a cool, dark place in an airtight container
  • 💡Dried thyme works well in spice blends and rubs
  • 💡For best flavor, toast dried thyme briefly in a dry pan before using

Frequently Asked Questions

How much fresh thyme equals 1 teaspoon of dried thyme?

Use 3 teaspoons (1 tablespoon) of fresh thyme to replace 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Can I use dried oregano instead of dried thyme?

Yes, dried oregano is an excellent substitute for dried thyme. Use a 1:1 ratio as they have similar earthy flavor profiles.

What's the best substitute for dried thyme in soup?

For soups, dried oregano or dried marjoram work best as 1:1 substitutes. You can also use a combination of dried rosemary and sage.

How long does dried thyme last?

Dried thyme typically lasts 1-2 years when stored properly in a cool, dark place in an airtight container.

Can I substitute ground thyme for dried thyme leaves?

Yes, ground thyme can substitute for dried thyme leaves, but use slightly less (about 3/4 the amount) as ground herbs are more concentrated.

Summary

Find the best substitutes for dried thyme including fresh thyme, oregano, marjoram, and herb combinations. Learn proper ratios and cooking tips for successful substitution.