Best Dried Savory Spice Substitute Tips

Originally posted on December 13, 2023 @ 7:38 pm

Savory is a versatile herb that adds a unique flavor to dishes. However, finding dried savory spice can sometimes be a challenge. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we will explore the best dried savory spice substitutes to keep your recipes flavorful, even when dried savory is not available.

Whether you’re making a stew, marinade, or seasoning for roasted vegetables, these savory spice alternatives will help you achieve the desired taste. We will provide tips on how to use these substitutes and which dishes they pair well with, so you can confidently experiment in the kitchen.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways:

Mint, coriander, basil, parsley, chive, dill, thyme, oregano, rosemary, and sage are all excellent substitutes for dried savory spice.
Each substitute brings its own unique flavor profile, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination.
These savory spice alternatives pair well with various cuisines, including Mediterranean, Mexican, and Middle Eastern.

When using substitutes, remember to adjust the quantity according to your taste preferences, as the strength of each herb may vary.
Keep your dishes flavorful by exploring these dried spice alternatives when dried savory is not readily available.

About Dried Savory

Dried savory is a small, green herb in the mint family. It is known for its unique flavor and aroma that adds depth to various dishes. There are two main types of savory: summer savory and winter savory.

Summer savory has a sweet and spicy flavor with lighter notes, making it an excellent addition to herb blends and meat dishes. Winter savory, on the other hand, has a more robust flavor with sage and pine overtones, making it ideal for hearty stews and lentil dishes.

Both types of savory can be used as a substitute for dried savory spice in recipes when the herb is not available. Their distinct flavors can enhance the taste of your dishes and provide a similar savory kick.

When using dried savory as a substitute, it’s important to experiment with the right amount to achieve the desired flavor profile. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste preferences. Dried savory can be added directly to the dish during cooking or infused with liquids like stocks and sauces for a more pronounced flavor.

Table: Dried Savory vs. Substitutes

Dried Savory	Substitutes
Small, green herb in the mint family	Mint, coriander, basil, parsley
Summer savory: sweet, spicy, and lighter notes	Mint: fresh, lemony flavor
Winter savory: sage and pine overtones	Coriander: citrusy accents
Enhances meat, stuffed dishes, and lentil dishes	Basil: distinct flavor and aroma

Whether you’re using dried savory or its substitutes, these herbs are versatile and can elevate the taste of your recipes. Keep in mind that the flavor profiles may differ slightly, so it’s essential to choose a substitute that complements the other ingredients in your dish.

Mint as a Substitute for Dried Savory

Mint is a well-known culinary herb that has a fresh, lemony flavor. It can be a suitable substitute for dried savory in many recipes. Mint pairs well with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes, such as Greek salad, tabouleh, lamb, and feta cheese. However, mint is quite powerful, so it should be used sparingly as a substitute for dried savory.

When using mint as a substitute for dried savory, consider the following tips:

Quantity: Mint has a strong flavor, so use it sparingly. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your preferences.
Timing: Add fresh or dried mint towards the end of the cooking process to preserve its flavor.
Pairings: Mint complements a wide variety of dishes, particularly those with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences.

Experiment with mint as a substitute for dried savory and discover new flavor combinations for your favorite recipes.

Pros	Cons
Mint has a fresh, lemony flavor that can enhance the taste of dishes.	Mint is quite powerful and can easily overpower a dish if not used sparingly.
Mint pairs well with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes.	Mint may not be suitable for all types of cuisines or recipes.
Mint is widely available and accessible.	Some people may not enjoy the taste of mint or have allergies or sensitivities to the herb.

Coriander as a Substitute for Dried Savory

If you’re looking for an alternative to dried savory in your recipes, coriander is an excellent choice. This fragrant herb with citrusy accents can add a unique flavor profile to your dishes.

Coriander is often used in South Asian and Latin American cuisines, and its distinct taste makes it a versatile option as a dried savory spice substitute. It pairs well with a variety of ingredients, including chicken, curries, avocados, corn, onions, and chilies.

When using coriander as a substitute for dried savory, keep in mind that its flavor can be quite powerful. Start by adding a small amount and adjust according to your taste preferences. Just a sprinkle of ground coriander can elevate the flavors of your dish.

Try incorporating coriander into your favorite recipes that call for dried savory and experiment with the taste. You might discover a new flavor combination that adds zest and vibrancy to your culinary creations.

Benefits of Coriander as a Substitute for Dried Savory
1. Adds a citrusy, vibrant flavor to dishes.
2. Complements a variety of ingredients like chicken, curries, avocados, corn, onions, and chilies.
3. Widely used in South Asian and Latin American cuisines.
4. Provides a unique flavor profile when dried savory is unavailable.

Basil as a Substitute for Dried Savory

Basil, with its distinct flavor and aroma, serves as an excellent substitute for dried savory in various recipes. It pairs especially well with dishes that include tomatoes, shrimp, mozzarella, pasta, and beef stew. Sweet basil and Thai basil are the most commonly used types in cooking, each bringing its own unique flavor profile to elevate your dishes.

If you’re looking for a savory herb substitute that can add a touch of freshness and herbaceousness, basil is a fantastic choice. Its vibrant green leaves and fragrant aroma can enhance the flavor of your meals, creating a delightful and appetizing experience.

Whether you’re preparing a hearty pasta dish or a flavorful tomato-based stew, substituting dried savory with basil can provide a burst of flavor that complements a range of ingredients. The versatility of basil makes it a popular choice in many cuisines, including Italian, Thai, and Mediterranean.

Next time you’re unable to find dried savory, turn to basil as a flavorful alternative to enhance your dishes. Experiment with different types of basil and explore the unique taste it adds to your recipes.

Parsley as a Substitute for Dried Savory

Parsley, a versatile herb widely available in grocery stores, can be an excellent substitute for dried savory in various dishes. It features a fresh, grassy flavor that adds a vibrant touch to your recipes.

When dried savory is not accessible, you can turn to parsley as a reliable alternative. Its flavor profile pairs well with garlic, lemon, mussels, blue cheese, lentils, and ham.

Whether you’re preparing Mediterranean, American, Brazilian, or Middle Eastern cuisines, parsley can complement a range of dishes with its distinctive taste. It can provide a similar savory note to your recipes without compromising on flavor.

By substituting dried savory with parsley, you can enjoy flavorful meals while exploring the culinary possibilities of this versatile herb. Experiment with different recipes to discover the delightful combinations that parsley brings to your table.

Chive as a Substitute for Dried Savory

Chive is a herb with a rich taste that resembles garlic. It can be a suitable substitute for dried savory in dishes with eggs, cheese, butter, salmon, and mashed potatoes. Chive is commonly used in Northern European cuisine, particularly in Swedish dishes. It adds a distinct flavor to your recipes when dried savory is not available.

Herb	Main Flavor	Suitable Dishes
Chive	Garlic-like	Eggs, cheese, butter, salmon, mashed potatoes

When you need an alternative to dried savory, chive can provide a similar flavor profile. Its garlic-like taste adds depth and complexity to a variety of dishes. Here are some popular dishes where chive can be used as a substitute:

Eggs: Sprinkle chopped chives over scrambled eggs or omelettes for a burst of savory flavor.
Cheese: Blend chives into cream cheese or sprinkle them over a cheese platter for an added dimension of taste.
Butter: Mix chopped chives and butter to create a flavored butter that can be spread on bread or used in cooking.

Salmon: Garnish grilled or baked salmon with chives for an elegant touch.
Mashed Potatoes: Stir in chopped chives to mashed potatoes for a hint of garlic-like goodness.

Chive is an excellent substitute for dried savory in these dishes, offering a unique flavor profile that complements the ingredients perfectly. Its versatility and availability make it a convenient alternative when dried savory is not on hand.

Dill as a Substitute for Dried Savory

Dill, with its delicate grassy flavor and powerful taste and aroma, makes a wonderful substitute for dried savory. It adds a unique touch to a variety of dishes, including sea bass, green soups, cucumber, cream cheese, beetroot, and pickles. Dill is particularly famous in Northern and Eastern European cuisines, where it is used to enhance the flavor of traditional dishes.

When using dill as a substitute for dried savory, start with small amounts and adjust according to your taste preferences. Its strong flavor can easily overpower a dish if used excessively. Whether you’re making a refreshing cucumber salad or a creamy dill sauce, dill can provide the burst of freshness and flavor you desire.

Try experimenting with dill in your recipes to discover new and exciting flavor combinations. Its distinctive taste profile adds complexity and depth to your dishes, making them more enjoyable for your taste buds. Enjoy the delightful essence of dill as a substitute for dried savory and elevate your culinary creations to new heights!

Thyme as a Substitute for Dried Savory

Thyme is an excellent alternative to dried savory spice, offering a robust flavor profile with grassy, lemony, and herbal notes. This versatile herb pairs well with various ingredients and dishes, making it a go-to substitute in the kitchen.

Thyme can enhance the flavors of eggplants, barbeque meats, roasted bell peppers, tomatoes, zucchini, and even goat cheese. Its aromatic qualities make it a perfect choice for adding depth to your favorite recipes.

Whether you’re seasoning a savory stew or adding a finishing touch to a roasted vegetable medley, thyme can be added at any stage of cooking to develop its flavor.

Oregano as a Substitute for Dried Savory

Oregano is a versatile herb that can be used as a substitute for dried savory in a variety of dishes. It provides an earthy taste that adds depth and flavor to your meals. Whether you’re cooking chicken, shellfish, hamburgers, pizza, or pasta sauce, oregano can be a great seasoning option.

In Mediterranean and Mexican cuisines, oregano is a staple herb that brings a distinct flavor to dishes. Its slightly bitter undertones complement the richness of these cuisines, enhancing the overall taste. However, it’s important to use oregano sparingly, as its flavor can quickly overpower a dish.

Next time you’re in need of a dried savory spice substitute, reach for oregano. Experiment with different amounts to achieve the desired flavor balance in your recipes. Oregano is a reliable substitute that will help you create delicious meals even when dried savory is not available.

Conclusion

When dried savory is not available, there are several alternatives that can be used as substitutes to add flavor to your recipes. Mint, coriander, basil, parsley, chive, dill, thyme, oregano, rosemary, and sage are all excellent options. Each herb offers its unique flavor profile and pairs well with different dishes, allowing you to experiment and find your favorite combination.

Mint, with its fresh and lemony flavor, is a suitable substitute for dried savory in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes like Greek salad, tabouleh, and lamb. Coriander, with its citrusy accents, can provide a unique flavor profile to your chicken, curries, and avocados. Basil, with its distinct flavor and aroma, pairs well with tomatoes, shrimp, and beef stew.

Parsley, a versatile herb, complements dishes with garlic, lemon, mussels, and blue cheese. Chive, with its garlic-like taste, adds a distinct flavor to dishes with eggs, cheese, and mashed potatoes. Dill, known for its grassy flavor, can enhance sea bass, cucumber, and pickles. Thyme brings its robust flavor with grassy, lemony, and herbal notes, making it excellent for dishes with barbeque meats, roasted bell peppers, or goat cheese. Oregano adds an earthy taste to chicken, hamburgers, and pasta sauce.

With these savory spice alternatives, you can elevate the flavor of your dishes even without dried savory. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try different combinations to discover new and exciting flavors. Whether you’re cooking Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, or other cuisines, these dried herb substitutes will ensure your recipes remain flavorful and delicious.

FAQ

What can I use as a substitute for dried savory spice?

Mint, coriander, basil, parsley, chive, dill, thyme, oregano, rosemary, and sage can all be used as substitutes for dried savory spice.

How can I use mint as a substitute for dried savory?

Mint can be used sparingly as a substitute for dried savory in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes like Greek salad, tabouleh, lamb, and feta cheese.

Can coriander be a substitute for dried savory?

Yes, coriander can be used as a substitute for dried savory in dishes like chicken, curries, avocados, corn, onions, and chilies.

Can I substitute basil for dried savory in recipes?

Basil can be a suitable substitute for dried savory, especially in dishes with tomatoes, shrimp, mozzarella, pasta, and beef stew.

How can I use parsley as a substitute for dried savory?

Parsley can be used as a substitute for dried savory in various dishes, including those with garlic, lemon, mussels, blue cheese, lentils, and ham.

Can I use chive as a substitute for dried savory?

Yes, chive can be a substitute for dried savory in dishes with eggs, cheese, butter, salmon, and mashed potatoes.

Can dill be used as a substitute for dried savory?

Dill can be used as a substitute for dried savory in dishes like sea bass, green soups, cucumber, cream cheese, beetroot, and pickles.

How can thyme be used as a substitute for dried savory?

Thyme can be a suitable substitute for dried savory in dishes like eggplants, barbeque meats, roasted bell peppers, tomatoes, zucchini, or goat cheese.

Is oregano a good substitute for dried savory?

Yes, oregano can be used as a substitute for dried savory, especially in Mediterranean and Mexican cuisines.

Source Links

https://chefd.com/substitutes-for-savory/