How to Substitute for Thyme in a Recipe

There is no direct substitute for thyme. But, if you're cooking a recipe and realize you don't have any of the seasoning, there are some other options. It all depends on what you're cooking. A recipe can be considered a suggestion. You start with it and work from there. Don't hesitate to experiment and make substitutions.

Instructions

- 1
  Substitute oregano or basil if you're making a tomato-based recipe. It's a different and stronger flavor, but would work well for meatballs, meatloaf, pasta dishes and more.
- 2
  Use tarragon instead of thyme on chicken and fish dishes.
- 3
  Add rosemary to the recipe if your lamb or pork recipe calls for thyme and you're all out. Rosemary and oregano also work well with potato recipes.
- 4
  Know that marjoram and parsley are other common substitutes for thyme. Parsley won't add much flavor but will give your dish some color.
- 5
  Grab Italian Seasoning if you have that in your spice rack. It actually contains thyme, so it should work in your recipe.
- 6
  Leave out thyme if you don't have it. Many cooks suggest that you don't even try to substitute for thyme--just skip it.

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