From The Straits Times    |
substitute fresh and dried herbs

substitute fresh and dried herbs

Photo: nitr / 123rf

Because the dehydrating process concentrates the flavours of dried herbs, it’s always advisable to dial down the quantity when using dried herbs to replace fresh herbs. 

A good rule of thumb is to cut down the quantity to a third; so if you need 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs, opt for just one teaspoon of dried herbs. 

Also on Simply Her: Keep this handy measurement converter guide for your baking and cooking adventures

Although there’s widespread perception that fresh is always better, there is barely any difference in flavour when using dried versions of strong savoury herbs like oregano, rosemary, thyme and bay leaves. So go ahead and stock up on these cheaper, pantry-friendly alternatives.

Do note that when it comes to things like mint, basil, and dill, the fresh herbs tend to taste more flavourful and vibrant than their dried versions. 

Also on Simply Her: How to create an herb or mini vegetable garden with used glass jars

BASIL
1 tbsp fresh, chopped basil = 1 tsp dried basil

Alternative herbs: oregano, thyme for European recipes, and mint for Asian recipes

BAY LEAF
1 fresh bay leaf = 2 dried bay leaves (This is a rare exception where you dial up the quantity when using dried herbs)

Alternatives: juniper berries

DILL 
1 tbsp fresh dill = 1 tsp dried dill

Alternative herb: tarragon

KAFFIR LIME LEAVES
1 tbsp fresh kaffir lime leaves = 2 tbsp dried kaffir lime leaves (You need to double the quantity here too)

MARJORAM
1 tbsp fresh marjoram = 1 tsp dried marajoram

Alternative herbs: oregano, sage

OREGANO
1 tbsp fresh oregano = 1 tsp dried oregano

Alternative herbs: marjoram, thyme and basil

PARSLEY
2 tsp fresh parsley = 1 tsp dried parsley

Alternative herbs: celery tops, cilantro

ROSEMARY
1 tbsp fresh rosemary = 1 tsp dried rosemary

Alternative herbs: sage, thyme

SAGE
1 tbsp fresh sage = 1 tsp dried sage

Alternative herbs: rosemary, thyme

TARRAGON
1 tbsp fresh tarragon = 1 tsp dried tarragon

Alternative herbs: fennel seeds, anise seeds, dill

THYME
1 tbsp fresh thyme = 3/4 tsp dried thyme

Alternative herbs: rosemary, oregano, parsley