8 Best Substitutes for Savory

Using sage as a substitute for savory herb can work well in certain dishes, but it’s important to consider the flavor profile and potency of sage, which is quite different from savory. Sage has a distinct, slightly bitter taste with a warm, earthy, and aromatic flavor. While it may not be an exact replacement for savory, it can still add depth and complexity to various recipes. Here’s how you can use sage as a substitute for savory:

1. Sage is a traditional herb used in stuffing recipes, particularly for poultry, and can be used as a substitute for savory in this context.
2. It pairs well with roasted meats, especially with pork and poultry, as it complements their flavors and adds an herby aroma.
3. Sage is a key ingredient in many poultry seasoning blends, so it can be used as a savory replacement in such mixes.
4. It is often used in sausage-making due to its savory and aromatic qualities, making it a potential substitute for savory in sausage recipes.
5. Sage can be added to bean dishes to provide an earthy and slightly bitter taste that can mimic some aspects of savory flavor.
6. If you’re looking to replace savory in a recipe that calls for a herb blend, sage can be used as a component of the blend along with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, and marjoram.

While sage can work as a savory substitute in certain recipes, it’s essential to be mindful of its potent flavor. Start with a smaller amount of sage than the recipe calls for in savory, and then adjust to your taste preference. Keep in mind that the final taste may not be an exact match, but sage can still provide a delightful herby touch to your dishes.

Using basil as a substitute for savory herb can be done, but it’s important to note that basil has a sweeter and more pronounced flavor. This flavor is described as more subtle, peppery, and with an earthy taste. However, in certain dishes, basil can still provide an enjoyable herby element. Here’s how you can use basil as a substitute for savory:

1. Basil pairs exceptionally well with tomatoes, making it a great substitute for savory in dishes like pasta sauces, bruschetta, and caprese salads.
2. It is the key ingredient in traditional pesto, and its fresh, aromatic flavor can replace savory in pesto recipes.
3. Basil is a staple in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, so it can be used as a substitute for savory in recipes like pizzas, pasta dishes, and grilled vegetables.
4. The leaves can add an herby and slightly sweet flavor to salads, acting as a savory replacement in some cases.
5. Basil can be included in herb blends to replace savory in certain recipes. For example, it can be combined with thyme and oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired blend.
6. While not a direct replacement, basil can still be added to certain soups and stews to impart an aromatic and herby taste.

Keep in mind that basil’s sweetness may not suit all savory dishes. This would be particular important for dishes where the peppery and earthy notes of savory are crucial. If possible, consider combining basil with other herbs like thyme or marjoram. This will create a blend that better mimics the savory flavor. While it may not perfectly replicate the taste of savory, basil can still add a delightful and fresh herbal touch to your dishes.

Tarragon can be used as a substitute for savory herb in certain dishes, but it’s important to be aware that tarragon has a unique flavor profile. It has a distinct licorice or anise-like taste, which is quite different from the peppery and earthy flavor of savory. As a result, using tarragon as a substitute may significantly alter the overall taste of the dish. However, in some recipes, the herbal and slightly sweet notes of tarragon can work well. Here’s how you can use tarragon as a substitute for savory:

1. Tarragon can complement chicken and fish recipes, and in some cases, it can be used as a savory replacement to add an interesting herbal touch.
2. It can be used in egg dishes and omelets especially if you enjoy its anise-like flavor.
3. Tarragon can be added to cream-based sauces and dressings as a savory alternative. This will enhance the overall taste with its unique herbal notes.
4. It can be included in herb blends to replace savory in certain recipes. For example, it can be combined with thyme and chives for a unique blend.
5. Tarragon can be used in potato dishes to provide an interesting twist on the traditional savory flavor.
6. It can be added to vegetable preparations, but keep in mind that the licorice flavor may not suit all vegetables.

If you decide to use tarragon as a substitute for savory, consider doing so in dishes where the licorice-like taste will complement the other ingredients. As always, taste and adjust as necessary to achieve the desired flavor profile. While tarragon may not be a direct replacement for savory, it can still bring a distinct and interesting flavor to your dishes.

Herbes de Provence can be a suitable substitute for savory herb because it often contains many of the same herbs found in savory, along with additional flavorful herbs commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine. It is a classic French herb blend that typically includes a combination of dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, oregano, marjoram. Sometimes it also includes sometimes lavender flowers.

Since savory is a component of Herbes de Provence, using this blend as a substitute can help replicate some of the savory flavors in your dishes. Here’s how you can use Herbes de Provence as a substitute for savory herb:

1. Sprinkle Herbes de Provence on roasted meats, such as chicken, beef, or lamb, to impart a savory and aromatic flavor.
2. Use Herbes de Provence as a seasoning for roasted or grilled vegetables, enhancing their taste with savory and herbal notes.
3. Add Herbes de Provence to soups and stews to infuse them with a delightful mix of savory herbs.
4. Incorporate Herbes de Provence into your marinades for meats, poultry, or tofu, providing them with a Mediterranean touch.
5. Mix Herbes de Provence into bread or pizza dough for added flavor and aroma.
6. Add Herbes de Provence to your sauces, salad dressings, or vinaigrettes to create savory and herbaceous flavors.

It’s important to note that Herbes de Provence may contain other herbs like lavender, which can add a slightly floral note to your dishes. This can be a delightful addition to some recipes but may not be suitable for all savory dishes. Nevertheless, Herbes de Provence can still be a versatile and flavorful alternative when savory herb is not available.