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Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of basil?

Fresh oregano, Fresh flat-leaf parsley + pinch sugar and Thai basil are the easiest swaps. Below: 4 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

The quick answer

Fresh oregano. Use the same amount. Peppery, less sweet.

Adjust: Use in cooked dishes — not raw garnish.

  1. Fresh oregano

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Peppery, less sweet.

    Flavor
    Earthy, peppery.
    Texture
    Same fresh leaf.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Use in cooked dishes — not raw garnish.
    Best for
    Pizza, Pasta sauce

    vegan

  2. Fresh flat-leaf parsley + pinch sugar

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Green bulk, less aromatic.

    Flavor
    Mild green.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Missing the anise/sweet. Use sparingly.
    Best for
    Pesto (approx), Garnish

    vegan

  3. Thai basil

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Anise notes. Close to Italian basil.

    Flavor
    Stronger anise.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Direct swap works.
    Best for
    Asian + Italian

    vegan

  4. Dried basil

    Changes flavor or texture

    Use ⅓ of the amount (ratio 1:3)

    Use in cooked dishes only. Different flavor.

    Flavor
    Hay-like, less sweet.
    Texture
    Dried.
    Moisture
    None.
    Adjust
    Use 3x amount. Add early in cooking.
    Best for
    Marinara, Long-cooked sauces

    vegan

Common questions

What is the best substitute for basil?

Fresh oregano is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Peppery, less sweet.

What is a vegan substitute for basil?

Good vegan options are Fresh oregano, Fresh flat-leaf parsley + pinch sugar, Thai basil and Dried basil.

How much should I use instead of basil?

It depends on the swap. Fresh oregano: Use the same amount. Fresh flat-leaf parsley + pinch sugar: Use the same amount. Thai basil: Use the same amount.

Recipes that use basil

Scale it to your recipe

Enter the amount you need and the substitution tool works out the exact quantity. Or ask the chef how the swap will change your dish.

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