🌿 Spices & Herbs

Thyme Substitute for Soup - for Soups and Stews Guide

Discover the best substitutes for thyme in soups and stews. Learn about oregano, marjoram, bay leaves, and other herbs that work perfectly in liquid-based dishes.

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Quick Answer

The best substitutes for thyme in soup are oregano (1:1), marjoram (1:1), bay leaves (1-2 leaves per recipe), or a combination of rosemary and sage (1/2 tsp each per 1 tsp thyme).

Best Substitutes

Oregano

1:1

Oregano provides similar earthy, aromatic qualities that complement soup flavors

Best for:

vegetable soupstomato soupsbean soupsstews

Similar earthy flavor, works well in long-simmering soups

Marjoram

1:1

Marjoram offers a delicate, slightly sweet flavor that enhances soup without overpowering

Best for:

cream soupschicken soupvegetable soupsstews

Slightly sweeter than thyme, excellent in creamy soups

Bay Leaves

1-2 bay leaves per recipe

Bay leaves provide deep, complex flavor that develops during long cooking

Best for:

beef stewvegetable soupbean soupstock

Add early and remove before serving, provides depth of flavor

Rosemary + Sage

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

This combination provides the earthy, aromatic qualities perfect for robust soups

Best for:

beef stewlamb stewhearty vegetable soups

Combination that mimics thyme's complexity in hearty soups

Savory

1:1

Savory has a similar earthy, slightly peppery flavor that works well in soups

Best for:

bean soupslentil soupvegetable soups

Similar earthy flavor, slightly more peppery

Italian Seasoning

1:1

Italian seasoning blend includes thyme and other herbs that work well together

Best for:

tomato soupminestronevegetable soups

Contains thyme plus other complementary herbs

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Add herbs early in soup cooking to allow flavors to develop and meld
  • 💡Use whole herb sprigs in soups and remove before serving for easier cleanup
  • 💡Dried herbs work well in soups since they have time to rehydrate and release flavor
  • 💡For clear soups, use a bouquet garni (herb bundle) for easy removal
  • 💡Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking, as flavors concentrate as liquid reduces
  • 💡Fresh herbs can be added at the end for a brighter flavor note

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best thyme substitute for chicken soup?

For chicken soup, marjoram or oregano work best as 1:1 substitutes. Bay leaves also add great depth of flavor.

Can I use bay leaves instead of thyme in soup?

Yes, bay leaves are excellent in soups. Use 1-2 bay leaves per recipe and remember to remove them before serving.

How much oregano should I use to replace thyme in soup?

Use the same amount of oregano as you would thyme - a 1:1 ratio works well in most soup recipes.

What herbs work best in vegetable soup as thyme substitutes?

Oregano, marjoram, and savory all work well in vegetable soups. Italian seasoning is also a good option.

Should I add thyme substitutes at the beginning or end of cooking?

Add most thyme substitutes at the beginning of cooking to allow flavors to develop, except for fresh herbs which can be added near the end.

Summary

Find the best substitutes for thyme in soups and stews including oregano, marjoram, bay leaves, and herb combinations. Learn proper ratios and cooking tips for successful substitution.