Best Substitutes for Dried Savory: Practical Cooking Solutions

The best substitutes for dried savory are thyme (use 1:1 ratio), marjoram (1:1 ratio), poultry seasoning (1:1 ratio), or a custom herb blend of thyme, rosemary, and sage. For bean dishes, thyme works exceptionally well, while poultry dishes benefit most from marjoram or poultry seasoning.

Running out of dried savory mid-recipe doesn't have to ruin your cooking experience. This versatile herb, available in both summer and winter varieties, adds an earthy, slightly peppery flavor to dishes ranging from beans and stews to poultry and stuffing. When you need a replacement, understanding which alternatives work best for your specific dish ensures your meal maintains that distinctive savory depth.

Understanding Dried Savory and Its Role in Cooking

Dried savory, particularly summer savory, is a key ingredient in many traditional recipes, especially across European cuisines. Its unique flavor profile—earthy with subtle peppery notes—makes it invaluable in bean dishes, where it both enhances flavor and may help reduce gas production. Winter savory offers a stronger, more resinous taste suitable for heartier dishes. When substituting, consider both the dish type and whether your recipe calls for the milder summer or more robust winter variety.

Top Substitutes for Dried Savory

Not all substitutes work equally well in every application. The right choice depends on your specific recipe and what flavors complement your dish best. Here's a detailed comparison of your best options:

Substitute	Ratio to Use	Best For	Flavor Notes
Thyme	1:1	Bean dishes, stews, roasted vegetables	Slightly stronger, more floral than savory
Marjoram	1:1	Poultry, tomato-based sauces, stuffing	Milder, sweeter than savory
Poultry Seasoning	1:1	Poultry dishes, stuffing, gravies	Contains savory plus other complementary herbs
Sage	1:2 (use half)	Meat dishes, stuffing, hearty stews	Stronger, more pungent flavor
Herbes de Provence	1:1	Mediterranean dishes, roasted meats, vegetables	Contains savory-like herbs with floral notes

Choosing the Right Substitute for Your Recipe

When selecting a dried savory replacement, consider these factors to maintain your dish's intended flavor profile:

For Bean and Legume Dishes

Thyme serves as the most effective dried savory substitute in bean recipes. Its earthy notes complement legumes beautifully while providing similar digestive benefits. Use equal amounts of dried thyme for dried savory in recipes like baked beans, lentil soup, or three-bean salad. For the best results when looking for a substitute for dried savory in beans, add the thyme early in the cooking process to allow flavors to meld.

For Poultry and Stuffing

Marjoram makes an excellent dried summer savory replacement in poultry dishes. Its sweeter, milder profile won't overpower delicate chicken or turkey flavors. When substituting in stuffing recipes, use equal parts marjoram for savory, or reach for poultry seasoning which typically contains savory plus complementary herbs like sage and thyme.

For Tomato-Based Sauces and Stews

In robust dishes like tomato sauces, marinara, or hearty stews, a combination of herbs works best as a dried savory alternative. Try mixing equal parts thyme and marjoram, using the same total quantity as the savory called for in your recipe. This creates a balanced flavor profile that mimics savory's unique characteristics.

Creating Your Own Savory Substitute Blend

For the most versatile dried savory replacement, create a custom blend you can keep on hand:

• 2 parts dried thyme
• 1 part dried marjoram
• ½ part dried sage

Mix these proportions thoroughly and store in an airtight container away from light. This blend works exceptionally well as a dried savory herb substitute across multiple applications. When using this homemade mixture, substitute equal amounts for the dried savory called for in your recipe. Properly stored, your substitute blend maintains freshness for up to six months.

When Substitutes Won't Work: Recipes That Truly Require Savory

While excellent substitutes exist for most applications, certain traditional recipes rely specifically on savory's unique properties. Classic German Bohnenkraut (bean herb) recipes and some French fèves au lard (baked beans) depend on summer savory's distinctive flavor. In these cases, consider making a special trip to a well-stocked grocery store or herb shop, as the substitute may alter the dish's authentic character.

Maximizing Flavor with Savory Substitutes

To get the most from your dried savory replacement, follow these professional tips:

• Add dried herb substitutes early in the cooking process for soups and stews to allow flavors to develop fully
• For finishing dishes, use half the recommended amount of stronger substitutes like sage or rosemary
• When substituting in bread recipes, pair thyme with a pinch of garlic powder for closer flavor matching
• Always crush dried herbs between your fingers before adding to release essential oils

What's the closest substitute for dried summer savory?

Thyme is the closest substitute for dried summer savory, offering a similar earthy flavor profile. Use equal amounts of dried thyme in place of dried savory for the best results, particularly in bean dishes and vegetable preparations.

Can I use poultry seasoning instead of dried savory?

Yes, poultry seasoning makes an excellent dried savory replacement, especially in poultry dishes and stuffing. Since most poultry seasoning blends contain savory along with complementary herbs like thyme and sage, you can use it in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute for dried savory.

How much thyme equals dried savory?

Use thyme in a 1:1 ratio when substituting for dried savory. For example, if your recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of dried savory, use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Thyme has a slightly stronger flavor, so some chefs prefer using 3/4 teaspoon thyme for every teaspoon of savory required.

What's the difference between summer and winter savory substitutes?

Summer savory has a milder, more delicate flavor, so thyme or marjoram work best as substitutes. Winter savory is stronger and more peppery, so you'll need a more robust substitute like a blend of thyme and rosemary, using slightly less quantity than the recipe specifies.

Can I substitute fresh herbs for dried savory?

Yes, but adjust quantities since fresh herbs are milder. Use three times the amount of fresh herb compared to dried. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon dried savory, use 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or marjoram. Add fresh herbs toward the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.