If you are all out of marjoram and need it for a recipe, no need to fear! There are a number of substitutes you can use for marjoram no matter what you are making.
And you will find each alternative and how to use them right here.
Marjoram is used in all types of recipes, from soups and dressings, to tea and marinades for savory dinner dishes.
When subbing for marjoram you have a number of options so read on for everything you need to know about replacing marjoram.
So what are the best substitutes for marjoram?
The top marjoram substitutes are oregano, Italian seasoning, sweet basil, sage, poultry seasoning, thyme, Herbs de Provence, and summer savory.
Marjoram Alternatives
With a subtle flavor of wood and earthy notes, marjoram is an incredibly versatile seasoning. From goulash to soups and teas it can be found in countless recipes.
It is a spice you should keep stocked in your pantry at all times. But when you’re all out of marjoram you have multiple options to add a similar flavor to your recipe.
Oregano
Closely related, oregano and marjoram share numerous similarities making it an exceptional substitute for marjoram in all types of recipes.
You likely already have this kitchen staple in your pantry or spice rack so it is the go to replacement for marjoram no matter what you are making.
Keep in mind that oregano has a stronger flavor and is less sweet than marjoram so it will be necessary to use less oregano than your recipe calls for regarding marjoram.
To make it easier, here are the most common amounts of marjoram called for in recipes and the equivalent amount of oregano to use.
- 1 teaspoon of marjoram equals 2/3 teaspoon of oregano
- 3/4 teaspoon of marjoram equals 1/2 teaspoon of oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of marjoram equals 1/3 teaspoon of oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon of marjoram equals 1/6 teaspoon of oregano
Italian Seasoning
Italian seasoning contains marjoram so it is a great substitute when making savory dinner recipes.
It works well in pasta dishes, beef, poultry, fish and just about any recipe that calls for marjoram.
Italian seasoning usually contains oregano, thyme, basil, rosemary and sage in addition to marjoram. So if your recipe calls for any of these spices you will want to reduce the amount used to account for the amount found in your Italian seasoning.
Use 1:1 ratio when subbing Italian seasoning for marjoram.
Sweet Basil
With a subtle, fresh flavor with hints of mint and anise, sweet basil is a great substitute for marjoram. It works well in all types of recipes and is likely already in your spice rack.
While the flavors are not exactly the same, the flavor profile works well as a replacement for marjoram and should be used at a 1:1 ratio.
Sage
This common spice is another solid option to use instead of marjoram. It works particularly well in poultry and chicken dishes as well as soups.
With a complex flavor profile that is earthy you will find hints of pepper, mint, lemon and eucalyptus.
Use a 2:3 ratio when substituting marjoram with sage.
Poultry Seasoning
Another seasoning mix that contains marjoram, poultry season is a traditionally used for stuffing and turkey as well as chicken.
It contains thyme, sage, rosemary, pepper, and nutmeg. This delicious spice mix works in all types of savory dishes that call for marjoram.
Like Italian seasoning, you will want to adjust other spices to account for the other spices found in poultry seasoning.
Use a 1:1 ratio when substituting marjoram with poultry seasoning.
Thyme
Popular in French, Mediterranean, and Italian cuisine, thyme is an excellent replacement for marjoram in almost every recipe.
This kitchen staple is incredibly versatile and offers a flavor profile that works wonderfully in place of marjoram.
Use a 1:1 ratio when using thyme instead of marjoram.
Related: Thyme Substitutes
Herbs de Provence
Traditionally used with fish, poultry and in stews, Herbs de Provence is a great stand in for marjoram.
This spice blend contains marjoram, rosemary, and thyme. Some varieties contain bay lead, fennel, chervil, or basil.
This complex spice works well in all types of recipes. Use a 2:3 ratio when substituting marjoram with Herbs de Provence.
Summer Savory
With hints of marjoram, mint, and thyme this semi hot spice is a great way to add an interesting flavor to your recipe that calls for marjoram.
I enjoy using summer savory in stews and meat marinades but it will work well in any recipe that calls for marjoram.
Use a 1:1 ratio of summer savory to marjoram.