Do you ever run out of your favorite spice?
Happens to me all the time – especially with marjoram.
Maybe it’s because marjoram is often sold in small dispensers.
This got me thinking about my favorite marjoram spice substitutes!
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If you’re anything like me, you probably have way too many spices in your spice rack!
But the great thing about having those extra spices is that you are prepared.
You are ready for that inevitable moment when you run out of the exact spice you need right now.
This post is the result of my brainstorming about what would make a good substitute for marjoram – if I happened to run out.
I have some ideas about what to use in place of marjoram should the situation ever arise.
And I’ll share my top marjoram substitutes with you a bit further down in this post.
But just in case there is anyone who is not intimately familiar with marjoram, here’s a quick overview.
What Is Marjoram?
Marjoram is an herb (not a spice) that is actually a member of the mint family!
Marjoram is frequently used as a subtle flavoring to enhance – but not overpower – the overall flavor of a dish.
It is very versatile and can be added to many different recipes.
What Does Marjoram Spice Taste Like?
To me, marjoram tastes piney, woodsy, subtly floral, with a delicate and mild citrus flavor.
But, as I mentioned in my Gochujang Substitute post, everyone experiences flavors differently.
This is why different people prefer different foods – it’s totally natural.
I’d be really curious to hear what marjoram tastes like to you.
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What Is Marjoram Spice Used For Besides Cooking?
Of course, this delicate herb with a mild citrus taste and subtle floral scent is great for cooking.
In fact, dried marjoram is a common ingredient in dishes like chicken cacciatore and many grilled fish recipes.
If you’re interested in what other dishes feature marjoram, Bon Appetit has some excellent recipes using Marjoram here.
But, as a fresh herb, Marjoram has also been used for medicinal purposes for hundreds of years (maybe longer)!
Since SeasonalCookbook.com is a flood blog – we’re going to discuss this herb in a food context!
So, What ARE the Best Substitutes For Marjoram Spice?
Let’s Get Into It…
My 11 Favorite Marjoram Spice Substitutes
1. Oregano
Oregano is like the bigger, tougher brother of marjoram.
Although oregano is spicier than marjoram and has a bolder flavor, it is probably the most common marjoram spice substitute.
This is my first choice for best marjoram replacement – and I think a lot of other food bloggers may agree.
Oregano is extremely versatile and used in, literally, thousands of recipes.
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As a result of oregano having a more powerful and spicier flavor, be careful when using oregano as a substitute for marjoram.
A good rule of thumb is to use only about 1/4 as much Oregano vs Marjoram to achieve a similar level of seasoning.
If you’re running low on oregano, you can always save yourself a trip to the store and just buy your favorite oregano online! (Amazon link).
2. Basil
Basil is a strong , aromatic herb that can be eaten raw.
Frequently, raw basil is added to salads, sandwiches, soups, and used as a garnish on many pasta dishes.
Dried basil is one of the most common marjoram spice substitutes, after oregano.
Since basil (dried or fresh) also has a stronger flavor than marjoram, you’ll want to use considerably less of this herb when using as a marjoram replacement.
Dried basil leaves are readily available almost everywhere and can be purchased online here (Amazon link).
3. Thyme
Thyme is another herb that is commonly used in place of marjoram.
Thyme makes an excellent marjoram substitute because it is also a member of the mint family.
Like marjoram, thyme also has a similar woody flavor with a hint of pepper and mild, floral notes.
According to this article from The Spruce Eats, “…fresh thyme has a pronounced, concentrated herbal flavor with sharp grass, wood, and floral notes (like lavender and rosemary).”
All of these characteristics make thyme, perhaps, my second-favorite marjoram substitute of all the ones on this list.
4. Tarragon
Tarragon is another herb used in cooking that has also been used for medicinal purposes.
Some people say this top marjoram substitute has a very, very subtle licorice flavor, however I do not taste this flavor in tarragon.
What I do find in common with marjoram, though, is a delicate combination of light, citrus notes and a subtle spiciness.
How do YOUR taste buds experience tarragon? Inquiring minds want to know!
Please Post A Comment in the COMMENTS SECTION Below!
5. Rosemary
Another herb – like thyme – also made famous by Simon & Garfunkel’s smash hit, rosemary is great to use in a pinch if you happen to run out of marjoram.
According to this article from McCormick’s own website, “…rosemary (also) has an earthy and woodsy flavor with subtle notes of pepper, lemon and mint…”
These characteristics are what make rosemary another excellent marjoram spice substitute. (Amazon link).
You may be noticing a theme here…
The best replacements for marjoram are,typically, herbs that have a combination of woodsy, herbal, and floral notes.
Most are also members of the mint family.
6. Summer Savory
Summer Savory is another herb with an herbal flavor that is mildly spicy.
It’s yet another member of the mint family and shares several flavor characteristics with marjoram, which makes it a good choice to use in a pinch.
It’s got a hot, spicy, and peppery flavor, so be sure to use a gentle hand when replacing marjoram with this spice!
7. Dried Lemongrass
Dried lemongrass also has some medicinal properties like the herbs we’ve already covered above.
It is said to reduce inflammation and is a common ingredient used in herbal teas to ease an upset stomach.
Lemongrass has a slightly peppery taste with notes of mint and ginger.
Dried lemongrass can certainly be used as a marjoram substitute because of it’s similar flavor profile.
8. Lemon Thyme
Similar to regular thyme discussed above, Lemon Thyme can also be used as a marjoram replacement.
According to this post on FineDiningLovers.com, “(lemon thyme) shares the minty, earthy and floral notes of regular thyme, but with a subtle essence of lemon that neutralises (sic) the bitterness sometimes found in its more well-known relative.”
This is an extremely precise and accurate description of how lemon thyme tastes (to me), as well, and I could not have described it any better!
Its minty, earthy, and floral taste are EXACTLY why Lemon Thyme makes this list of my 11 Favorite Marjoram Spice Replacements.
9. Ground Sage
Like Oregano, Sage has a bold and pungent flavor.
Ground sage is slightly bitter with a strong pepper flavor and should be used sparingly when substituting in place of marjoram.
I think using about 1/4 the amount of marjoram you would normally use is a good rule of thumb when replacing with sage.
10. Greek Oregano
Like traditional oregano, be careful when using this Mediterranean offshoot as a favorite marjoram substitute.
Greek oregano is bolder, spicier and much more pungent and bitter than traditional oregano.
It’s not as sweet as marjoram, so it can easily overwhelm other flavors if not used sparingly.
Although a good Greek Oregano like this one can be used as a marjoram replacement in a pinch, I prefer some of the other choices already discussed above.
11. Herbes de Provence
Herbes de Provence is an excellent marjoram substitute because it is simply a mixture of several of the other herbs already mentioned.
Typically consisting of basil, oregano, thyme, tarragon and rosemary, Herbes de Provence oftentimes even includes marjoram!
Since this option already includes marjoram, as well as many of the previously discussed marjoram replacements, Herbes de Provence is a no-brainer marjoram spice substitute.
Where Can I Get Marjoram?
Marjoram is readily available in grocery stores and wherever spices are sold.
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I prefer to buy marjoram online from Amazon.
The reason?
Mainly because it saves me a trip to the grocery store – which I am at way too often!
Just make sure you have several items to order if ordering online from Amazon to take advantage of their free shipping.
Were You Hoping For A Recipe Post?
Have no fear!
I have quite a few recipes planned out for the upcoming months.
In the meantime, if you are looking for a healthy recipe to get back on track from the holidays, please check out this Blackened Swordfish recipe.
It’s quick, easy, healthy and delicious!
If you are still in ‘winter feed mode’ like me, and are looking for something great to serve at your Super Bowl party, please check out this Wingstop Ranch recipe.
It’s the perfect complement to these insanely good Crispy Buffalo Wings from Stella over at StellaNSpice.com.
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So What Did You Think Of My 11 Favorite Marjoram Spice Substitutes?
Do you have any other marjoram spice substitutes I may have overlooked?
Are you a fan of Marjoram? I want to know if you also use it in your recipes!
Please Post A Comment in the COMMENTS SECTION Below and let’s start a discussion.
Until next time…
Happy Cooking!
