There are many options if you don’t have the herb thyme on hand! Here are the best substitutes for thyme (fresh or dried) in recipes.
Are you preparing a recipe that calls for thyme and you don’t have any? Or would you like to replace the dried thyme with fresh? We have all the answers. Thyme is a versatile herb with an earthy flavor. You’ll find it in many great cuisines around the world, including Mediterranean, French, Middle Eastern, and Italian.
Because thyme is used so often in cooking, we highly recommend growing it in your garden (here’s how to grow herbs). Of course, dried thyme is a staple in every home’s spice cabinet! Below we share the ratio of dried to fresh thyme and then some of the best thyme substitutes.
How do you replace dried thyme with fresh?
The best option for fresh thyme is to use dried thyme if you have it on hand! Here is the conversion rate. Ratio: Substitute 1 teaspoon of dried thyme for 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme. (This works for all dried herbs.)
The best substitute for thyme
Note that how these options work depends on the type of recipe and how the thyme is used. Of course, if possible, it’s best to run and grab something.
1. Oregano (fresh or dried).
You can substitute equal parts fresh or dried thyme for fresh or dried oregano. Their taste is similar. However, oregano has a distinctly Italian vibe, while thyme is a little less pronounced.
2. Marjoram or savory (dried).
Marjoram or savory taste similar to thyme, so if you have them, they work as substitutes. These herbs are a little more unique, so you might not have them on hand. (They’ll probably work fresh too, but if you don’t have fresh thyme, we’re assuming you don’t have fresh marjoram or savory either!)
3. Italian seasoning (dried).
Here’s a fun tip! Thyme is included in Italian seasoning, so you can use it as a substitute for thyme in a pinch. Of course, like oregano, it will have a bit more of an Italian flavor.
Related Recipes
Here are some of our favorite recipes using fresh or dried thyme:
