Sometimes, its just not possible to get to the store to pick up a fresh bouquet of basil that you need for dinner. Dont panic if all you have at home is the dried version: you can still create that fabulous dish with good results.
Generally, when swapping dried herbs for fresh herbs, you should use ⅓ of the amount of fresh herbs called for in the recipe. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, then you would add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
Fresh-to-Dried Herb Converter
Use this easy formula as a fresh-to-dried herb converter: 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs. In other words, use three times as much fresh herbs when the recipe calls for dried and 1/3 of the amount of dried herbs when the recipe calls for fresh.
3:1 Conversion Exclusions
The 3:1 ratio will work for most dried-to-fresh herb conversions; however, there are a few cases in which its not quite so simple. For example, fresh garlic is often measured in cloves rather than teaspoons or tablespoons. In that case, use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of fresh garlic in the recipe. Other exclusions include:
- Basil: Substitute 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every 2 teaspoons of fresh basil.
- Ginger: Substitute 1/4 teaspoon dry ground ginger for every 1 teaspoon of freshly grated gingerroot.
- Onion: Substitute 1 teaspoon onion powder for every medium fresh onion.
- Sage: Substitute 1 teaspoon dried sage for every 7 fresh leaves or 2 teaspoons minced fresh sage.
- Thyme: Substitute 3/4 teaspoon ground thyme for every 6 sprigs or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme.
How to Prepare and Store Fresh Thyme
FAQ
How much dried thyme equals a tablespoon of fresh thyme?
What are the equivalents for 1 tbsp of fresh herbs?
Is fresh thyme stronger than dried thyme?
How much dried sage equals 1 tablespoon fresh?
How many tablespoons of dried thyme is 1 tablespoon?
The dried equivalent of 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme is 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. When it comes to cooking with fresh versus dried herbs, there are some important things to consider. One of the most common questions that arise is the conversion from fresh to dried herbs, including thyme.
How to use thyme?
Thyme can be used fresh or dried, and works well in soups, roasted vegetables, pasta, sauces, pizzas, chicken, stews, eggs, fish and seafood, lasagna, pork, lamb, or beef.
How much thyme is a teaspoon?
Typically, one teaspoon of dried thyme is equivalent to one tablespoon of fresh thyme. This intensified taste makes dried thyme suitable for dishes that are cooked or simmered for long periods, as the flavor is released slowly over time.
What is the difference between fresh and dried thyme?
Knowing the conversion for fresh and dried thyme is crucial to ensure the right amount of herb is added to your dish, which can impact its overall taste and aroma. The dried equivalent of 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme is 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. When it comes to cooking with fresh versus dried herbs, there are some important things to consider.