Substitutes for Oregano: 12 Best Alternatives + FAQs!

Oregano is the most typical Mediterranean herb used in Italian pizza sauce. When you use it in a pizza or spaghetti sauce, your brain recognizes the flavor of this beautiful herb right away.

It’s a star in Mediterranean, Italian, and Mexican cuisines, and it may be eaten fresh or dried (Mexican cuisine always uses the dried version). Growing oregano in your garden is the most excellent method to get fresh oregano. If you cannot do so for whatever reason, you may always purchase it in-store.

Oregano is a must-have in any home cook’s cupboard, but replace basil, thyme, parsley, rosemary, or another herb if you don’t have time to go out and get it.

This page is a list of the most acceptable oregano alternatives. The effectiveness of these alternatives is determined by the type of recipe and how the herb is utilized.

1. Basil (fresh or dried)

The most acceptable oregano alternative is basil. Add equal quantities of fresh or dried basil for fresh or dried oregano. However, keep in mind that this technique is only effective in Mediterranean cuisine. Basil, like oregano, has a distinct Italian flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute for fresh oregano, try the following options below.

2. The herb thyme (fresh only)

The most excellent fresh oregano alternative is fresh thyme. In thyme’s new forms, they have remarkably similar appearances and tastes. If you’re looking for a garnish, thyme is a terrific option. We usually avoid using dried thyme instead of dried oregano since it has a robust flavor.

3. Italian Seasonings (dried, for Italian-style recipes)

This is a fantastic ruse! Oregano is one of the herbs used in Italian seasoning, so you may use it as a replacement if you don’t have any other options. It is a technique that can only be used in Italian-style cuisine.

4. Marjoram (dried, for Mexican style recipes)

The herb marjoram is next on the list. It has a taste similar to oregano. In Mexican-style meals, dried Marjoram is a good substitute for dried oregano. Marjoram is a one-of-a-kind spice, so it’s unlikely you’ll have it on hand.

5. Parsley

If you frequently use oregano in tomato-based foods, you can use parsley instead. Due to its relatively substantial scent and taste, it has a distinct flavor. Because of its distinctive signature, it may enhance any cuisine. You can use a comparable amount of parsley as oregano in the recipe because it is likely a vital element.

6. Tarragon 

Oregano is not only a fantastic complement to tomato-based recipes, but it’s also a great accent to a plate of mixed greens dressings. It provides the mix with a dynamic kick, primarily if you use the appropriate quantity. Tarragon is also an excellent addition to these two types of meals. It can mimic the modest bitterness of the original component with its bittersweet flavor.

7. Dill 

The taste of this spice is grassy with anise undertones. It also has a harsh taste, making it an excellent substitute for oregano. While oregano is recognized for its intense flavor and aroma, dill has a more powerful presence. Along these lines, reduce the amount of dill you use to avoid an overpowering flavor.

8. Sage 

Sage is a bittersweet herb with citrus and eucalyptus notes. It has an intense flavor, similar to oregano, incredibly when fresh. To get the best results, make sure you use the proper amount of oregano by following the recipe’s instructions.

9. Rosemary

If you don’t have any dried oregano on hand or want to use fresh ingredients, rosemary will suffice. Use a comparable amount of your alternative herb as the amount of oregano called for in your recipe.

10. Bay leaf

The bay leaf is a fragrant leaf that is commonly used in cooking. This plant can be consumed whole, crushed, or dried. This leaf may be used in slow-cooked dishes, including stews, sauces, and soups. However, remember to take it out before serving the meal. It’s theoretically edible, although it’s hardly the most delectable herb. 14 tablespoons crushed bay leaf in place of 14 tablespoons dried oregano

11. Fenugreek 

The Fabaceae family includes fenugreek. It’s a bit annual plant with three small obovate to oblong leaflets and a semiarid crop grown all over the planet. The leaves and seeds of this plant, known as methi in India, are used in various dishes. Fenugreek can be used in place of oregano in any recipe. It has a sweet, nutty aroma and flavor. It is, nevertheless, an excellent replacement for oregano. It can taste like super butter when eaten fresh. However, when cooked and combined with other spices and ingredients, it alters and improves your whole cuisine.

12. Leaves of ajwain (Carom)

Last but not least, carom leaves, also known as ajwain leaves, are a great alternative to oregano in any dish. You may find it in practically every Indian home. It’s a member of the same family as oregano, which is why we recommend it as an alternative for oregano. It has the same smell and appearance as oregano. You may either use Carom instead of oregano or combine it with Marjoram for a more robust flavor.

Related Questions

Is oregano the same as basil?

Oregano is another Mediterranean spice that is frequently used in cooking. Despite having a more grounded, flowery, peppery flavor, this common spice is similar to basil. You can use this substitution in spaghetti sauces, dinners, or condiments.

 What’s the difference when it comes to oregano and thyme?

Thyme and oregano have similar aromas, with notes of lemon, mint, and earthy overtones, and maybe swapped for each other in some recipes. In any event, oregano has a far more assertive flavor than thyme, which means it may overpower other flavors if used in excess.

Is it possible to use parsley for oregano?

Yes, you may substitute parsley for oregano, despite the differences. However, because parsley has a milder flavor than oregano, you should use more of it.

Is oregano the same as Indian borage?

Plectranthus amboinicus is the common name for Indian borage. It’s a member of the Lamiaceae family, which includes the mints. It’s known as Cuban oregano; however, it is not oregano. You may still use it as an oregano alternative in your recipes.

Is it possible to use powdered oregano instead of dried oregano?

Yes, you certainly can. You may save money by using 14 teaspoons of ground oregano for one tablespoon of dried oregano leaves.

If I don’t have oregano, what can I substitute?

Oregano has an intense aroma and flavor. It is, however, not irreplaceable. You may substitute oregano with a variety of other popular herbs. Swapping fresh for dried and vice versa is the most excellent option. This will provide the most similar flavor and scent as a backup.