The BEST Substitute for Tarragon: 10 Swap-In Ideas

Tarragon, with its unique anise and licorice notes, adds a depth of flavor to many dishes. But what if you find yourself without? Swap it! Here’s a guide to some fantastic substitutes that can stand in for tarragon in a pinch, ensuring your dishes remain delicious.

There are quite a few good substitutes for tarragon, depending on your recipe and what kind of flavor you’re going for! Here are some options:

What to Substitute for Tarragon

Thyme

This versatile herb offers a milder, slightly minty flavor that can work well in chicken dishes, soups, and stews. Use a 1:1 ratio fresh or dried.

Parsley & Cinnamon

This unexpected combo works surprisingly well in Béarnaise sauce. Combine 1 tablespoon parsley with ½ teaspoon cinnamon and simmer in ¼ cup water for a flavor reminiscent of tarragon.

Basil

Fresh basil brings a sweet, peppery note that complements tomato-based dishes and vinaigrettes. Use double the amount of fresh basil compared to tarragon.

Dill

If you enjoy the licorice aspect of tarragon, dill can be a good substitute. Use slightly less dill as its flavor is more pronounced.

Chervil

This delicate herb has a subtle anise flavor and works well in egg dishes and light sauces. Use a 1:1 ratio fresh or dried.

Marjoram

This herb has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that can work in poultry and vegetable dishes. Use a 1:1 ratio fresh or dried.

Fennel

Adds a distinctive licorice flavor to fish dishes and roasted vegetables. Use a 1:1 ratio for fronds and half the amount for seeds.

Aniseed

Use sparingly, as aniseed’s licorice flavor is potent. A pinch can add depth to sauces and marinades.

Rosemary

Though quite different in flavor, rosemary can add a savory, woodsy note to roasted vegetables and meats. Use it sparingly as it’s quite potent.

Oregano

While bolder than tarragon, oregano can hold its own in stews and tomato-based dishes. Use half the amount of oregano as tarragon.

Tips

• When using substitutes, consider the dish’s overall flavor profile. Opt for herbs with similar flavor notes (licorice, anise, peppery) for a more seamless replacement.
• Remember that substitutions may not be exact, so adjust the amount based on the herb’s potency and your taste preferences.
• Start with a smaller amount of the substitute and gradually add more to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
• If you’re using dried herbs, keep in mind that they are generally more potent than fresh herbs, so you may need to use less.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with combining different herbs to create your own unique flavor blend.

Related Recipes

Here are some recipes using tarragon:

• Creamy Tarragon Pork Tenderloin Medallions
• Bearnaise Sauce
• Mushroom Pâté
• Zucchini Fries with Tarragon Aioli
• Scallop Risotto with Lemon & Sweet Peas