Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of dried mint?

Dried spearmint, Fresh mint and Dried oregano + a pinch of dried 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

Dried spearmint. Use the same amount. Same herb, usually better quality than supermarket mint.

Adjust: Rub between your palms to wake it up.

Dried spearmint
Drop-in swap

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Same herb, usually better quality than supermarket mint.

Flavor
Sweeter mint.

Texture
Crumbled.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Rub between your palms to wake it up.

Best for
Soups, Dips

vegan
Fresh mint
Drop-in swap

Ratio 3 tbsp chopped : 1 tbsp dried (ratio 3 tbsp chopped : 1 tbsp dried)

Brighter and less earthy; add at the end.

Flavor
Fresh, cooling.

Texture
Leafy.

Moisture
Slightly more.

Adjust
Triple the amount; add just before serving.

Best for
Cacık, Soups, Salads

vegan
Dried oregano + a pinch of dried basil
Changes flavor or texture

Ratio 1 tsp : 1 tsp (ratio 1 tsp : 1 tsp)

Savory stand-in when mint is missing.

Flavor
Earthy, not minty.

Texture
Crumbled.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Taste and adjust.

Best for
Meat dishes, Tomato sauces

vegan
Peppermint tea leaves
Changes flavor or texture

Ratio 1/2 tsp : 1 tsp (ratio 1/2 tsp : 1 tsp)

Very strong menthol notes.

Flavor
Cool, menthol.

Texture
Fine.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Use sparingly.

Best for
Yogurt dips

vegan

Common questions

What is the best substitute for dried mint?

Dried spearmint is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Same herb, usually better quality than supermarket mint.

What is a vegan substitute for dried mint?

Good vegan options are Dried spearmint, Fresh mint, Dried oregano + a pinch of dried basil and Peppermint tea leaves.

How much should I use instead of dried mint?

It depends on the swap. Dried spearmint: Use the same amount. Fresh mint: Ratio 3 tbsp chopped : 1 tbsp dried. Dried oregano + a pinch of dried basil: Ratio 1 tsp : 1 tsp.