21 Easy and Simple Dill Substitutes To Get A Similar Taste Profile

Dill substitute to make at home are an incredible idea for people who cannot have dill on their diet due to a particular health condition or allergy. There is no need to worry since you can pick up these ingredients easily at any grocery store!

Dill is one of the most versatile herbs you can find. There are many ways to use it, and you can substitute it with other herbs in recipes as an easy way to change things up occasionally.

Substitutes For Dill

Some of our substitutes include:

Below are just a few examples of these easy-to-make sidekicks.

1. Lovage

Lovage is a common herb grown in Scandinavia. It has a slightly earthy flavor to it. It tastes and smells similar to dill. The leaves of this herb are the edible parts that are used in soups, sauces, and other dishes.

They can also be used raw to flavor salads and main courses. Lovage is not as widely available as dill, but you can still find it at some farmer’s markets, gourmet grocers, or online. It costs about $2 per pound (227 grams).

How To Substitute

Substitute 1 tablespoon of lovage for 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill leaves or 2 teaspoons of dried dill weed.

2. Dandelion

Dandelion is an aromatic herb that has long been used for centuries in Scandinavian cuisines. It is a perennial herb that grows in temperate to subtropical climates and can be found growing on any lawn. The leaves are edible and can be used raw or cooked.

They are often used to flavor salads and other dishes, but they can also be enjoyed as tea. The roots of this herb are also edible but not as common as the leaves.

Dandelions can be found at most grocery stores. A standard bunch (about 60 stalks) costs around $1. Other varieties cost more, but they are also delicious.

How To Substitute

The easiest way to substitute dill is by simply substituting 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill for each tablespoon of dandelion you use to create a recipe. If you’re making stock or another type of herbal drink, you can also use dandelion (1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill for every 1 tablespoon of dandelion recipe).

3. Common Dill

Common Dill is the least expensive and most widely available dill substitute. It has a mild flavor that compliments anything that goes into a sauce or other dish with herbs and spices. 

It can be used as a substitute for dill in dishes without mint, basil, or other flavors that traditionally use dill. Common dill costs $0.50 per bunch (150-200 grams). You can find this herb at most grocery stores.

How To Substitute

You can use a standard tablespoon of chopped fresh leaves for common dill substitutes. Substitute it for one of these herbs when making soups and stews or as part of a salad. It is also commonly used with potatoes and other vegetables in Scandinavian cuisine.

4. Mint

Mint is a perennial herb traditionally found in tropical climates, but you can also find it in temperate regions. The leaves and stems of this herb are the edible parts used for seasoning dishes or for making herbal teas.

Mint costs about $2 per bunch (150-200 grams), but you can also grow it easily at home. Mint costs up to $3 per bunch (200 grams). You can find it at most grocery stores and garden centers.

How To Substitute

Substitute 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh mint leaves for 1 tablespoon of dill weed. It is widely used with potatoes, carrots, and cabbage dishes in Scandinavia and other regions around the world!

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5. Tarragon

Tarragon is a perennial herb that has a distinct, pungent flavor. It is commonly used to flavor soups and main courses, but you can also add it to salads and other dishes.

The leaves of this herb are the edible parts, while the roots are used as a seasoning in stews and sauces.

By purchasing tarragon root, you can make delicious tarragon tea. Tarragon costs $2 per bunch (150-200 grams). You can find this herb at any grocery store, but it is more common in greenmarkets, farmer’s markets, and online.

How To Substitute

Substitute a tablespoon of chopped fresh or dried tarragon leaves for one tablespoon of dill. This herb is commonly used in potato and pasta dishes, salads, and other dishes.

6. Green Part Of The Fennel Plant

The green part of the fennel plant, also known as Fennel Bulbs, is a common dill substitute. This herb, which is a perennial, has long been popular in Scandinavian cuisine. It’s great as a spice to add to soups, stews, and sauces. 

You can also eat fennel raw on amazing sandwiches and salads. Fennel bulbs cost $2-3 per bunch (150-200 grams). You can find them at any grocery store.

How To Substitute

You can use 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh or dried fennel greens for every ½ teaspoon of dill weed and 1 teaspoon for every ¼ teaspoon of dill seed. You can also use 2 teaspoons of this herb for every 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill leaves.

7. Caraway Seeds

Caraway seeds are an essential ingredient in Scandinavian cuisines and can be found in other culinary traditions. They are used to flavor dishes of all kinds, often by adding them directly to the dish.

They are often used in soups and stews, where they add a subtle flavor and an interesting texture. Because this herb is very common, it is not as expensive as other dill substitutes such as dill weed.

You can use caraway seeds to flavor a variety of dishes you would usually not add dill to. Caraway seeds cost $3 per ounce (28 grams). You can find them at most grocery stores.

How To Substitute

For caraway seeds, use a tablespoon of chopped fresh leaves. As with the other herbs, substitute them for dill when making soups and stews or as part of a salad. It is commonly used with potatoes and other vegetables.

8. Cilantro / Coriander

Coriander is a fragrant herb that tastes like a combination of lemon and pepper. It is commonly used in Asian and Indian cuisine, but you can also find it in some Nordic dishes such as curries, soups, and sauces. You can find it fresh or dried.

If you want to use fresh coriander as a substitute for dill, you will need to chop up the fresh stems in your recipe. Do not use the leaves of the coriander plant – they are not edible!

Caraway seeds cost $3 per ounce (28 grams). You can find them at most grocery stores.

How To Substitute

A tablespoon of chopped fresh coriander for 1 tablespoon of dill. Coriander is used with potatoes and other vegetables in Scandinavian cuisine.

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9. Parsley (Fresh) Or Dried

Parsley is a herb that has been used for centuries to flavor items such as soups, stews, sauces, and salads. It can be added raw to dishes or cooked in some recipes by itself or with other herbs. You can also use fresh parsley leaves as dill substitutes.

Parsley is a perennial herb, and you should be able to find it at your local grocery store or online. It costs $1 per bunch (150-200 grams).

How To Substitute

One tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley leaves for 1 tablespoon of dill.

10. Sage (Fresh) Or Dried

Sage is a shrub that can be used to season foods and add flavor to soups, stews, sauces, and salads. It can also be added directly to a dish.

This herb is sometimes called common sage or wild sage. You can find it fresh at your local grocery store. Sage costs $1 per bunch (150-200 grams).

How To Substitute

Substitute 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh sage leaves for 1 tablespoon of dill. This herb is commonly used in potato dishes, as well as salads and other dishes.

11. Parsley (Dried) For Desserts Only!

Dried Parsley is an excellent alternative if you need dill for a dessert recipe such as a cake. It has a similar flavor profile and is easier to store (and cheaper!) than fresh dill weed. 

Dried Parsley is good for adding to main courses like lentil dishes and potato pancakes, but you can also make it into a delicious tea by itself.

Dried Parsley costs $1 per ounce (28 grams). It is available in most grocery stores or online.

How To Substitute

Substitute 1 teaspoon of dried parsley flakes for 1 tablespoon of dill. You can also use 2 teaspoons of chopped fresh parsley leaves for 1 tablespoon of dill weed.

12. Chopped Dried Dill Weed

You can use either fresh or dried dill weed in baking and cooking. To substitute 1 tablespoon of fresh dill for 1 tablespoon of dried dill, you’ll need to use 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh dill weed.

You can also substitute 2 teaspoons of fresh herbs for 1 tablespoon of chopped dried dill weed.

How To Substitute

Substitute the exact amount of chopped fresh or dried dill weed listed on the ingredient list for the amount listed on the seasoning list. You can also use 2 teaspoons of this herb for every 1 tablespoon of chopped dried dill weed.

13. Basil

If you are familiar with Italian and Asian cuisines, then you most probably know basil since it is an everyday staple in their recipes. If you don’t like the bitter taste of dill, then you will surely like basil since it is less bitter and has a similar light sweet taste.

Basil would work great in a recipe like pasta, stews, marinades, meat, and salad to replace dill.

How To Substitute

Replace dill with fresh basil in a 1:1 ratio or use half quantity if you use dry basil.

14. Chives

Chives have a similar appearance to dill, but their taste and flavor differ. They taste like a mixture of onions and garlic. Chives are slightly sweeter and have a milder flavor.

They are also less intense, making them more suitable for cooking. They also have a mild aroma.

How To Substitute

Use chives to replace dill in a 1:1 substitution ratio.

15. Chervil

Chervil is a member of the parsley family. It is a popular and most common staple in Japanese cuisine with a slightly bitter taste. The herb has a similar texture to parsley and is often used as a substitute for dill.

Chervil has a strong flavor, so use it sparingly when cooking. The herb is typically added to salads and vegetable dishes.

How To Substitute

Use chervil to replace dill in an equal ratio.

16. Oregano

Oregano is a popular herb in Mediterranean dishes and brings out a versatile and herbal sweet from your recipe. You will find this staple on your kitchen shelf easily.

Many people love dill in their dishes. However, if you do not want to use dill in your dish, try substituting oregano. The strong, pungent taste of oregano will go great with beef dishes and other dishes with dill in them.

You may use oregano to replace dill in various recipes such as pasta, stews, and many similar recipes that call for dill.

How To Substitute

Since it contains a strong flavor, you may add half or less than half quantity in the beginning. Then, if your recipe calls for more, you can add it later.

17. Garlic

Garlic is your go-to choice if you do not have dill on your hand and your dish calls for a flavoring ingredient. Garlic is an everyday and easy-to-find staple in many cuisines.

It would be best if you went for garlic powder to add to your recipe since it adds a depth of flavor. It would do great in many recipes that call for dill.

How To Substitute

Initially, use garlic in smaller quantities to see how it goes. Then, if you want, you may add more to your recipe if required.

18. Onion Powder

If you do not want to use dill in your recipe, you may opt for onion powder which is dried grounded onion. It is an excellent alternative to dill to add flavor to your recipe.

It will add a robust flavor to your recipe without adding any moisture. You may use it in soups, stews, rubs, and other dishes that call for dill.

How To Substitute

You may similarly use onion powder in your recipe in an equal quantity.

19. Bay Leaves

Dill is a fresh herb used in many cuisines, but it is a very aromatic herb that many people find unpleasant. If you are not a fan of the strong taste of dill, then you can substitute it with bay leaves.

Bay leaves have a flavor similar to dill but are not as intense. Therefore, you can replace the strong dill flavor with the slightly milder flavor of bay leaves.

Bay leaves are great for flavoring soups, stews, meat and poultry dishes, and baked goods. You may use it to substitute for dill in various dishes, but it may not be as flavorful.

How To Substitute

Use it in a ¼ quantity initially to see if you like it in your recipe. However, you may increase the amount as per the requirement.

20. Rosemary

One of the most common herbs used in cooking is rosemary, but dill is also a popular herb if you want to substitute rosemary for dill in recipes.

Rosemary is a great way to add a new and unique flavor to your cooking. Using dill can sometimes leave your dishes tasting too strong.

So adding rosemary to your dishes is a great way to balance the flavors and add a bit of flavor that you might not have been able to get with dill.

How To Substitute

Use half a teaspoon of rosemary if you are new to this substitution and increase it as per your requirement.

21. Thyme

Thyme is one of the best substitutes to use instead of dill. It comes from the mint family and consists of a strong flavor. Thyme is an herb with a lemony flavor and a floral aroma that can be used in many dishes.

You may use it to flavor sauces, bread, soups, salads, and other savory dishes. Make sure to use it at the beginning of cooking, and you will get a delicious outcome for your recipe.

How To Substitute

You should use it in a smaller quantity in your recipe than it calls for dill.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Dill?

Dill (Anethum graveolens) is a plant in the Lamiaceae family that’s used as a spice and herb. It is native to southern Europe, northern Africa, and Asia Minor. In America, it has been cultivated since medieval times.

What Are The Benefits Of Dill?

Dill has many benefits for cooking. It is known as a cooling herb, it helps to fight food-borne illness, and it is an excellent addition to anchovy sauce.

Dill can also be used in pickles by adding it shortly before the mixture enters the jar or adding some to vinegar-based vinaigrettes or marinades.

What Should You Watch Out For When Buying Dried Herbs?

You should stick with reputable brands when buying dried herbs; otherwise, you risk getting very low-quality ingredients that could ruin your dish.

I Don’t Have a Dill. What Can I Use Instead?

While you can use any other herb in its place, the most common replacements are Parsley or cilantro. Cilantro has a much stronger flavor than Parsley, so it’s usually best to use less of it, especially with recipes that utilize large quantities of dill, like salmon or cucumber salad.

What’s The Best Recipe For Dill?

Dill tastes best in fresh, homemade dressings and it is also great sprinkled on top of raw vegetables and salads.

You can make a simple vinegar dressing by mixing 3/4 cup apple cider vinegar with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon pepper, basil leaves or parsley flakes, 2 tablespoons chopped onions or shallots, 2 teaspoons sugar, and 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil.

Mix well and pour over your favorite salad greens. You can also mix some dill with your honey mustard to give it an extra kick.

21 Easy And Simple Dill Substitutes

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

5

minutes

Total time

10

minutes

Dill is an essential herb that adds a unique flavor to many dishes. 

Ingredients

• Lovage

• Dandelion

• Common Dill

• Mint

• Tarragon

• Green Part Of Fennel Plant

• Caraway Seeds

• Cilantro/ Coriander

• Parsley (Fresh)

• Sage

• Parsley (Dried) For Desserts Only

• Chopped Dried Dill Weed

• Basil

• Chives

• Chervil

• Oregano

• Garlic

• Onion Powder

• Bay Leaves

• Rosemary

• Thyme

Directions

• Choose your favorite substitute from the list given above
• Follow the directions given in the recipe after having substituted the ingredient in the correct ratio

• Author
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Jess Smith

Hi, my name is Jess Smith, and I love cooking in my spare time. Around three years ago, I decided to give up my day job as a teacher to pursue my passion for food. While I have enjoyed sharing tips and tricks on Social Media, I have decided to expand my horizons through this blog.

Through this blog I hope to help others learn the basics and more intricate details of cooking. I know from personal experience how frustrating it can be to cook a meal, only to realize you are missing one ingredient from your list. This is why I love to write articles chatting readers through some great substitutes that can be used in an emergency.

I hope you will find this blog useful, and that it will help you to develop your culinary skills, to help you cook up a storm!

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