If you’ve ever cooked a roast chicken, grilled vegetables, or a hearty stew and wanted that fragrant, French countryside flavor, chances are you’ve reached for Herbes de Provence. But what happens when you open your spice cabinet and realize you’re fresh out? Don’t panic—there are several easy substitutes for Herbes de Provence that will keep your dish flavorful and aromatic.
What is Herbes de Provence?
Herbes de Provence is a classic French herb blend that usually contains thyme, rosemary, savory, marjoram, and oregano. Some versions also include basil, fennel, tarragon, or lavender. It’s earthy, woodsy, and slightly floral—perfect for Mediterranean cooking. The goal when substituting is to capture those herbal, fragrant notes without losing balance.
1. Italian Seasoning
Italian seasoning is probably the closest ready-made substitute. It shares many of the same herbs like thyme, oregano, rosemary, and marjoram. What it lacks is lavender, which gives Herbes de Provence its unique floral lift. To mimic it, you can stir in a pinch of dried lavender (if you have it) or leave it as is. Use Italian seasoning in equal amounts as Herbes de Provence.
2. Thyme and Rosemary Blend
If you don’t have a premade mix, combine thyme and rosemary—two of the most dominant herbs in Herbes de Provence. This duo works beautifully in roasted meats, potatoes, or soups. Use equal parts thyme and rosemary, adjusting to taste.
3. DIY Herbes de Provence Mix
You can whip up your own version with common pantry herbs. Mix 2 parts thyme, 2 parts marjoram, 1 part rosemary, 1 part oregano, and a small pinch of fennel or basil. If you want authenticity, toss in just a bit of dried lavender. Store the extra in a jar so you’ll always have some ready.
4. Savory + Oregano + Thyme
Savory has a peppery bite that makes Herbes de Provence unique. If you have savory on hand, combine it with oregano and thyme for a quick substitute. This works especially well in stews, roasted vegetables, and bean dishes.
5. Tarragon with Thyme
For a slightly sweeter, licorice-like flavor, try tarragon mixed with thyme. While it’s not a perfect match, it brings a French flair that blends well with poultry, fish, and cream-based sauces. Use about half the amount of tarragon as you would Herbes de Provence, since it can be strong.
6. Basil and Oregano
If you’re in a pinch and only have basic herbs, basil and oregano can still do the trick. This combo won’t replicate the full complexity, but it adds warmth and Mediterranean character to pasta sauces, grilled vegetables, and marinades.
7. Herbs + Lavender (Optional Boost)
If you really miss the floral note, sprinkle in just a tiny bit of dried lavender with your substitute. Be careful, though—lavender can quickly overpower a dish. A pinch is enough to bring that authentic Provencal aroma.
Cooking Tips When Replacing Herbes de Provence
- Match the dish: For roasted meats, thyme and rosemary are your best bet. For lighter dishes, basil or tarragon might work better.
- Start small: Since herb blends vary in intensity, begin with less and adjust after tasting.
- Balance flavors: Lavender should always be used sparingly to avoid bitterness.
Final Thoughts
Herbes de Provence may sound fancy, but substituting it is easier than you’d think. Italian seasoning is the quickest swap, while a simple thyme-rosemary blend works wonders in most recipes. If you’re feeling creative, make your own mix and customize it to your liking. Personally, I keep a little jar of homemade Herbes de Provence with just a touch of lavender—I love how it transforms plain roasted chicken into something that feels straight out of a French kitchen.
