What can you substitute for Bay Leaf? Below are our top 9 recommendations for alternative replacements that can be used in a variety of recipes. The thing to remember is if you choose to use a substitute, you should start out small in quantity to not overpower the flavor. You can always add more.
The top recommended herb substitute for Bay Leaf is thyme. When using thyme as a substitute for Bay Leafit is important the know that it has a bit of a distinct lemony taste.
It works well in soupsstews, and sauces. But remember to go easy on the quantity of thyme because it can have an unpleasant flavor if it is overused.
Substitute Ratio:
1bay leaf = ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
¼teaspooncrushed bay leaf = ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
Oregano
Oregano is a frequent seasoning used in Mediterranean cooking. Oregano has a peppery taste.
When using it as one of your substitutes for Bay Leavesit goes best in dishes such as casseroles, spaghetti sauce, and pasta sauces.
Substitute Ratio:
1bay leaf = ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
¼teaspooncrushed bay leaf = ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
Mexican Oregano
How about a spice substitute for Bay Leaf? Mexican Oregano has a bit of a citrusy lemon flavor along with tones of licorice. Like the name acknowledgesthese flavors can be a good fit with Mexican dishes.
It makes a good alternative in salsa dishes or chili and peppery dishes.
Substitute Ratio:
1bay leaf = ¼ – ⅛ tsp of Mexican oregano
Basil
Can you substitute basil for Bay Leaf? The answer is yesin the right dishes. The taste of basil will depend on the variety. Sweet basil is one of the most common kinds and has a fresh aroma with a hint of mint and subtle peppery flavor.
Other varieties of basil can have a spicier black licorice flavor or citrusy aspect and wouldn’t fair as well as a substitute for Bay Leaf. It works well in pasta dishes and some sauces.
Substitute Ratio:
1bay leaf = 1 basil leaf
¼teaspooncrushed bay leaf = ¼ teaspoon dried basil
Boldo Leaves
If you’re able to access Boldo leavesyou can use them as a substitute for Bay leaves. However, you’ll want to use about half the amount your recipe calls for because they’re known to be quite strong and overpowering if used in the wrong quantity. The flavor is known as mildly bitter.
Substitute Ratio:
1bay leaf = ½ boldo leaf
½teaspooncrushed bay leaf = ¼ teaspoon crushed boldo leaf
Juniper Berries
What can I substitute for Bay Leaf? Juniper berries have a slight piney flavorwith a hint of fruitiness and peppery aspects. Some compare them with the flavor of gin. They look like blueberries but taste different.
Juniper berries work well in braised dishes as they give a spicy aroma and flavor.
Substitute Ratio:
1bay leaf = two or three juniper berriesground or whole
Rosemary
What is a good substitute for Bay Leaf? Rosemary can be a good substitute for Bay Leaf in cooking. What does rosemary taste like? We’d describe rosemary as a woody herb that has hints of evergreenpine, lemon, pepper, and mint.
Rosemary is particularly good in potato dishesas well as sauces, soups, and stews.
Substitute Ratio:
1bay leaf = ¼ tsp of rosemary
Red Bay Leaves
Red Bay Leaves tend to taste a bit like eucalyptus when they’re fresh. Just like a standard Bay Leafthey are typically removed from soups and stews before they’re served.
Leave it Out
Can I omit Bay Leaf? The short answer is yes. Just as it’s important to choose the best possible substitute when making a dishit’s also beneficial to know when to simply leave it out.
If the substituted flavor is going to cause more harm than good to the dishthen it’s better to leave it out. Or, if you’re unsure whether you’ll like the outcome, then just leave it out. No Bay Leaf is better than a ruined dish.
Instructions
Choose the best bay leaf substitute.
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