Oregano is a spice with a strong, pungent, almost bitter taste. It’s the perfect complement to many different dishes. Trying to find an alternative for it might sound like quite the task.
Luckily, there are many substitutes for oregano that can still provide the same taste without having to purchase this herb.
Here are 5 substitutes for oregano so you can find your new favorite herb in no time!
Oregano Substitutes
1. Marjoram
Marjoram is the next herb on our list of substitutes for oregano. It has a sweeter, less pungent taste than the typical oregano. It’s also prized for its medicinal qualities and can be used as an antibiotic or antiseptic.
2. Thyme
Thyme, another substitute for oregano, has a strong taste that’s similar to oregano’s but generally considered to be more flavorful. Like marjoram, thyme is prized for its medicinal qualities and can help fight colds and flu symptoms.
3. Rosemary
Rosemary is often used in cooking because it doesn’t have nearly as much flavor as other herbs on this list of substitutes for oregano. Rosemary provides an aroma that can make it feel like you’re actually cooking with oregano without having to use the spice itself!
4. Sage
Sage is one of the most common substitutes for oregano because it has a very similar flavor profile to this popular ingredient – just less pungent! Sage also happens to have excellent medicinal properties, so it’s worth using if you’re looking to replace your supply of this commonly-used spice at home!
5. Cumin Seeds
Cumin seeds are likely something you already have in your spice cabinet! They may not quite be as pungent or flavorful as other herbs on this list of substitutes for oregan
Parsley
One of the most popular substitutes for oregano is parsley. This herb offers a similar taste, but with less pungency than oregano. Parsley can be used in similar settings as oregano, whether you’re trying to add some flavor or spiciness to your meal.
Thyme
Thyme is an herb with very sharp, pungent, and distinctive flavor. It works well in many different dishes.
Basil
Basil is one of the most popular herbs in the world. It’s used mainly in Italian cuisine, but can also be used in other dishes. It has a similar taste to oregano, but it’s not overpowering like oregano can be. Basil is perfect for rice dishes or salads.
Tarragon
Tarragon is closely related to the oregano plant. It has a similar aroma but it has a much sweeter taste. It can be used in cooking just like oregano, and it’s the perfect substitute for the herb because it still provides that same rich flavor.
Cilantro
Cilantro is a great substitute for oregano. Cilantro shares a similar taste with oregano and even has a slightly different flavor profile. If you’re looking to add a plant that will bring a new flavor to your recipe, cilantro might be the way to go.
Curry Powder
Curry powder has a spice that is quite similar to oregano, although it’s not quite as strong. Curry powder can be used in many different dishes, even if you are not trying to replicate the taste of oregano.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice with a similar taste to oregano. The flavor of turmeric can be described as earthy, slightly bitter, and slightly sweet. It pairs well with other spices like cumin, coriander, garlic, ginger, and cardamom. Turmeric can be used in place of oregano in many dishes including Curried Carrot Soup or Indian Ground Beef Curry.
Marjoram.
Marjoram is a type of oregano and comes from the same family. It has a sweeter, milder taste than other types of oregano. It’s perfect for dishes that are lacking in flavor.