Can’t find the fresh chives you need for a recipe? Here’s the best substitute for chives, the delicate green herb of the onion family.
Preparing a recipe that calls for chives and you don’t have any? We’re here for you. Chives are a fresh, tender herb that belongs to the onion (Allium) family. They are often used freshly chopped as an accompaniment to soups and salads. Dried chives are also used dried in dips. Chives are very easy to grow in pots or in the garden. What’s the best way to replace them?
Can I replace the dried chives with fresh chives?
Technically yes. However, dried chives don’t have much flavor of their own! They are best rehydrated in creamy dips or cooked recipes. It might not add much flavor, but it’s an option if that’s all you have. Ratio: Substitute 1 teaspoon of dried chives for 1 tablespoon of fresh chives. It works for all dried herbs.
Best substitute for chives
1. Spring onion greens (shallot).
The best substitute for chives? spring onion green! Green onions are also called spring onions, and the dark green part is very similar to the fresh taste of chives. You can replace it one for one. So 1 tbsp finely chopped spring onion leaves = 1 tbsp chopped chives. We often make this in our recipes when we don’t have chives on hand! (Here’s the difference between chives and green onions.)
2. Leave it out!
Other sources suggest that leeks and onions can be substituted for chives. But chives have a very subtle flavor and are often used thinly sliced as a nice green garnish. Substituting leeks or braised onions here makes little sense. We leave that to your discretion! Our recommendation is spring onion throughout.
Here are some of our favorite chive recipes:
