13 Best Substitutes for Oregano

If you’re out of oregano or can’t find it at your local grocery store, a few substitutes can be used in its place. Marjoram, thyme, and basil are all herbs with a similar flavor profile to oregano. These should work well in most recipes if you have any of these on hand.

Another option is to use a combination of dried herbs. A mix of thyme, basil, and sage can be a good stand-in for oregano. If you have these herbs in your pantry, you’re in luck! Simply combine them in equal parts and use the mixture as you would oregano.

A few other options can be used if you need a substitute in a pinch. Herbs like rosemary or tarragon can work well in a pinch. Or, you could try using a bit of garlic or onion powder to add flavor.

No matter what substitute you choose, use it sparingly at first. You can always add more if needed, but it’s challenging to remove flavor once it’s been added.

What Are The Best Substitutes for Oregano?

Here are the 11 Best Substitutes for Oregano:

1. Thyme

Thyme is a fragrant herb that is used in cooking. It is a member of the mint family and has a strong, pungent flavor. Thyme is used in various dishes, including soups, stews, and sauces. It is also used to flavor bread, meats, and vegetables.

Thyme is the best substitute for oregano because it has a similar flavor profile and can be used in the same dishes.

Some potential benefits of thyme include acting as an antimicrobial, helping to fight off infection, being an antioxidant, and helping to reduce inflammation.

2. Marjoram

Marjoram is a plant in the mint family. The leaves and flowers are used to flavor food.

There are several reasons why marjoram is the best substitute for oregano. First, marjoram has a similar flavor profile to oregano, with a slightly sweeter taste.

Additionally, marjoram is more delicate than oregano, so that it won’t overpower other dishes’ flavors. Finally, marjoram is more widely available than oregano, making it an easy substitution.

Some potential benefits of marjoram include reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and improving digestion. Additionally, marjoram may help boost the immune system, improve heart health, and protect against certain types of cancer.

3. Rosemary

Rosemary is a herb that comes from the mint family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and has a long history of use in cooking and medicine. Rosemary has a strong, pungent aroma and a slightly bitter taste. 

It flavors various dishes, including meats, poultry, vegetables, and sauces. Rosemary is also used to make teas and oils.

There are several reasons why rosemary is the best substitute for oregano. First, rosemary has a similar flavor profile to oregano, with a slightly minty taste that can enhance the flavor of many dishes. 

Additionally, rosemary is versatile and can be used in various dishes, from savory to sweet. Finally, rosemary is very easy to grow, so it is an excellent option for those who do not have easy access to oregano.

Some potential benefits of rosemary include improving digestion, reducing inflammation, and relieving pain. Additionally, rosemary is sometimes used as a natural treatment for headaches, colds, and the flu.

4. Basil

Basil is a member of the mint family. It is native to India and has been used in that country for more than 5,000 years. Basil is a popular herb in many cuisines and is used to flavor various dishes.

Basil is the best substitute for oregano because it has a similar flavor profile and can be used in the same dishes.

Basil is a good source of vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health. It is a source of magnesium, vital for energy production, muscle and nerve function, and blood sugar control.

5. Tarragon

Tarragon is a herb that is used in many different cuisines. It has a unique flavor that is both sweet and savory. Tarragon is often used to flavor chicken, fish, and vegetables.

Tarragon is a good substitute for oregano because it has a similar flavor profile. Both herbs are in the mint family and have a slightly sweet, anise-like flavor. Tarragon is milder than oregano, so you may need to use a bit more to get the same flavor.

Some potential benefits of tarragon include improved digestion, relief from pain, and reduced inflammation. Tarragon may also help protect against certain types of cancer and boost the immune system. 

6. Sage Leaves

Sage leaves are a type of herb that is commonly used in cooking. They taste slightly bitter and are often used to flavor meat dishes. Sage leaves can be found fresh or dried in most grocery stores.

Sage leaves are a good substitute for oregano because they have a similar flavor profile. Sage is slightly sweeter than oregano, so you may want to use a little less sage than you would oregano in your recipe.

Sage leaves offer a wide range of health benefits, including, Boosting cognitive function and memory, Enhancing mood, and reducing anxiety, Acting as an anti-inflammatory agent.

7. Mint

Mint is a plant used to make various things, including food, medicine, and cosmetics.

Mint and oregano are excellent herbs that can be used in various dishes. They have different flavor profiles, but both can be used as a substitute for the other.

Mint can help to freshen your breath, help to relieve an upset stomach and clear your sinuses.

8. Chives

Chives are a type of onion often used as a garnish or a flavoring agent in cooking. They have a milder flavor than most onions and are often used in salads, soups, and other dishes.

Chives can be used as a replacement for oregano in many dishes. Chives have a similar flavor to oregano and can be used similarly.

Chives’ benefits include boosting heart health, improving digestion, and protecting against cancer. Additionally, chives are a good source of vitamins A and C and minerals like iron and calcium.

9. Chervil

Chervil is an aromatic annual herb member of the parsley family. It has a mild anise flavor and is used to season salads, soup, chicken, fish, and vegetables.

Chervil is a suitable replacement for oregano because it has a similar flavor profile. Both herbs are used in Mediterranean cuisine and have a similar taste.

Some benefits of chervil include its ability to improve digestion, relieve gas and bloating, soothe stomach cramps, and protect against ulcers. It can also help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and boost the immune system.

10. Dill

Dill is a plant that is most commonly used as an herb. The leaves of the dill plant are used to add flavor to food. Dill is also known for its ability to aid in digestion.

Dill is a suitable replacement for oregano because it has a similar taste and can be used similarly.

Dill includes its ability to aid in digestion, relieve gas, and reduce inflammation. Dill is also a good source of antioxidants and has been shown to have antibacterial and anti-fungal properties.

11. Fennel

Fennel is a plant in the Apiaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region. The plant is also found in other parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and North America.

The Fennel plant is cultivated for its leaves, seeds, and oil. The leaves and seeds are used as spices. The oil is used in perfumes and soaps.

Fennel can be a suitable replacement for oregano because they share similar flavor profiles. Both herbs are potent in taste and can be used to add flavor to dishes. Fennel can be used in place of oregano in many recipes, such as soups, stews, and sauces.

Fennel can help in improving digestion, reducing inflammation, and relieving pain. It is a good source of antioxidants and vitamins and can help boost the immune system.

Conclusion

In conclusion, many substitutes for oregano can be used in a pinch. Some of the best substitutes for oregano include thyme, basil, sage, and rosemary. If you don’t have these herbs, you can also use dried oregano, Italian seasoning, or garlic powder.