Tarragon Substitutes

12 Substitutes That Work as Well as the Herb Itself

Tarragon

Tarragon has been used both as a fresh and dried herb for flavoring French, as well as Russian dishes. The bittersweet taste of this herb has been a great contributor to several cuisines.

Tarragon Substitutes

When your ingredient list contains fresh tarragon, and you cannot find it in the store, just switch to the following substitutes:

Chervil

This culinary spring herb is an excellent substitute for tarragon due to its mild flavor. Belonging to the parsley family, chervil presents an in-between flavor of parsley and tarragon.

Fennel fronds

This culinary spring herb is an excellent substitute for tarragon due to its mild flavor. Belonging to the parsley family, chervil presents an in-between flavor of parsley and tarragon.

Basil leaves

Belonging to the mint family, basil leaves serve as an excellent replacement for fresh tarragon. Basil leaves are a last-minute addition to any recipe.

Fennel seeds

Fennel seeds can be the replacement option for fresh tarragon in your recipes. Along with its alluring aroma, fennel seeds offer a refreshing and mildly sweet taste. 

Anise seeds

Owing to its licorice flavor, Anise seed can easily substitute for fresh tarragon in any recipe. The quantity proportion of anise seeds to tarragon is 1 teaspoon per tablespoon. 

Dried tarragon substitutes

Here are a few substitutes for dried tarragon that blend perfectly to offer the desired flavors to your dish:

Marjoram

The sweet, minty, and woodsy flavor of marjoram serves as an excellent seasoning herb on roasted meat, vegetable broth, and even pizza.

Oregano

Oregano is a popular herb that we all have used on pizza. The subtle sweetness, along with the warm flavor of oregano, can be an excellent substitute for dried tarragon in a recipe.

Rosemary

The bitter and astringent taste of rosemary can perfectly substitute the bittersweet taste of dried tarragon in any recipe. It can be used in chicken, pork and vegetable broth.

Dill

Dill is a great substitute for dried tarragon, especially if you are looking for a less aromatic option. It is another last-minute herb that loses flavor under prolonged cooking.

Thyme

The potent herbal flavor of thyme can be an escape from dried tarragon in your recipes. It belongs to the mint family and has been known for its ornamental, medicinal and dietary uses.

Angelica

The bitter woody taste of angelica can easily replicate the flavor of dried tarragon. It is typically used in flavoring candies, liquor and desserts.

Parsley and cinnamon powder

Parsley offers a peppery flavor with mild bitterness and cinnamon adds warmth to the dish. This combination, along with lemon juice, can brighten up any savory dish.

Conclusion

Tarragon is a herb that has its own characteristic, smell and flavor. These tarragon substitutes may not precisely replicate tarragon's taste, but they won’t ruin the dish as well.

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