18 Best Mint Substitutes You Must Try!

Mint is one of the multi-purpose ingredients available in your pantry. From desserts to drinks, you can use mint in so many different ways! But if you are out of this at the very last minute, here are some best mint substitutes you can try! 

Some of the best mint substitutes are parsley, cilantro, basil, dried mint, peppermint tea leaves, peppermint extract, marjoram, rosemary, tarragon, oregano, and lemon extract. 

Fresh mint is quite a versatile herb and known for its cool flavor. It is used in sweet and savory recipes. You can easily incorporate this herb in sauces, salads, dressings, and even sauces. Mint is used for its refreshing flavors. 

Yes, the choice of mint substitute largely depends on the nature of the dish. Not all substitutes work well with all kinds of recipes.

This blog post will assist you in getting all the details about the best mint substitutes with their uses and substitution ratio. Let’s get right into it!

18 Best Mint Substitutes

In this blog post, you will be able to get the best substitutes that can be used in place of mint. Along with the substitution ratio, you will also get to know the recipes that work best. Let’s dive right in!

1. Flat Leaf Parsley

When discussing the best mint substitute, parsley comes at the top of the list. This herb is largely used for cooking purposes to add an extra punch of flavor. It has a strong taste with peppery touch and earthy flavors.  

Parsley is best suited for recipes such as chicken stocks and soups. Depending on the recipe, you can use it in different forms, such as baked, crushed, or steamed.

Its versatile nature makes it quite a household herb. Not only this, but it can also be used to prepare smoothies and salads. 

Moreover, you can find it in the market or simply grow it in the garden. The addition of this herb provides similar flavors to mint. Furthermore, it does not overpower the original flavors of the dish. You can replace mint with parsley in a similar quantity.

2. Cilantro (Coriander)

If you are not familiar with the term cilantro, don’t worry. It is nothing new. Cilantro is also known as coriander. This herb is another replacement for the mint and brings out the delicious flavors of the recipes. 

When it comes to its taste, it can be described as pungent, fresh, peppery flavors. It does not have a strong taste of mint, so feel free to use an extra amount of it. You can use it in powdered form, dried or fresh. 

I suggest you use fresh coriander, which will have more flavor than a dry one. You can substitute mint with cilantro in a 2:1 ratio. 

3. Basil

Another mint substitute on the list is basil. This herb is widely used in various recipes and, thus, is quite a versatile addition to your pantry. The addition of basil adds an extra flavor to the recipes. Basil is widely used in making pesto sauces. 

Moreover, you can use it for preparing salads, soups, and dippings. Regarding substitution ratio, use basil in a standard ratio of 1:1. 

Be careful while using basil; make sure you do not add too much of it. If your dish demands a high flavor of mint, then I rather suggest you not use basil.

4. Dried Mint

What else is a better alternative than dried mint? You won’t get the exact flavors of fresh mint, but it can still be used as a substitute. You will get an exact minty aroma with sweet and earthy flavors. 

Sprinkle it over salads and add dried mint to dressings, and you can be good to go. One teaspoon of dried mint leaves for a tablespoon of fresh mint leaves must be a trick. 

I would rather suggest you not use dried mint when mint leaves are used for decoration or visual elements such as potato salads, boiled mint potatoes, and sangria. In addition to this, you can easily get a pack of dried mint from the nearby market. 

5. Peppermint Tea Leaves

When we talk about peppermint tea leaves, they are just dried leaves with more intense and strong flavors. But these leaves won’t work well when mint is being used as salad leaves in recipes such as tabbouleh. 

Not only this, peppermint tea leaves serve great medicinal purposes. It treats indigestion, cough, cold, and other ailments. These tea leaves fill your body with vitamins and minerals. 

6. Peppermint Extract

Looking for the best mint substitutes for desserts and drinks? Well, here it is! Peppermint extract is one of the easiest ways to add minty flavors to the recipes. If you are like me and do not choose? Then this peppermint extract is quite a savior for us. 

All you need to do is pour some drops, and hola! The recipes are good to use. Peppermint extract has a strong flavor because of the highest concentration of menthol. Just be extra careful while adding it to the dish. 

I suggest you start with a small amount if unsure about the quantity. If you don’t have mint leaves, worry not! Add a few drops of peppermint extract to your mojito, giving a similar minty flavor. 

It will be a great option to be added to making mint chocolate chip ice cream. Well, it is not suitable for desserts. In addition, if you are searching for a mint substitute in savory dishes, I suggest you not use peppermint extract; just go for another mint substitute, such as parsley, basil, and cilantro. 

7. Marjoram

Wondering about another mint substitute? Here it is! Marjoram is a plant that belongs to the family of oregano. It is known for its minty and savory flavors. You can easily incorporate it with root vegetables, poultry, and pasta dishes. 

Not only this, but it also has medicinal benefits and, thus, helps to prevent colds. In addition to this, you can also use it to get better digestion and sleep. Using marjoram as an alternative to mint will give the recipe a nice citrusy and pine flavor. 

You can easily find it in the market, and it can easily grow in your home. You can enjoy both the fresh and dried flavors of the marjoram. 

When it comes to its flavors, you might find its flavors much more potent as compared to the mint. So while adding this to the recipe, make sure you start with a small quantity and then gradually add on the ratio. 

8. Rosemary 

Want to add some herbal touch to the dishes? Here it is! Rosemary is the perfect ingredient to be added in recipes with potatoes, meat, or any other vegetable dish. 

It is an ideal mint substitute and brings out the best possible flavors of the dishes. It is known for its floral notes and peppery touch. Your dish is definitely going to have a beautiful flavor and aroma. 

Rosemary is not limited to culinary but is also widely used to prepare essential oils, fragrant liquids, cleansers, and aromas. They can also be used in marinade meat. 

Regarding substitution quantity, you can alternate one mint leaf with 2 to 3 branches of rosemary. Don’t forget to taste the recipe after adding the small quantity of rosemary. 

9. Tarragon

Looking for the best alternative for the mint leaves? You can’t miss tarragon. It is quite popular for its citrusy flavors and narrow leaves. Tarragon will be a great addition to your soups, salads, toppings, and many more! 

The taste of the tarragon is quite similar to the lemon and licorice. You will surely be going to get hints of vanilla, pepper, and mint flavors. 

Despite the measure of flavors, using tarragon in measured quantities is better. The addition of an extra amount of tarragon will surely be going to alter the flavors of the original dish. So, it is better to start adding it to your recipe in small quantities. 

10. Oregano

Another mint substitute you can try is oregano! It is also a part of the mint family and, thus, serves as a great alternative to mint. 

Be extremely careful while using it in the recipes, as it may overpower the recipe with its strong flavors. I advise you to add half the quantity required of mint while adding oregano to the recipe. If you feel the need to add more, then add it and adjust it as per your taste. 

You can use oregano as a mint substitute in savory dishes, marinades, and sauces. Moreover, you can use it with other spices too to get extra delicious flavors. 

11. Lemon Extract

Lemon extract is nothing else but just a blend of lemon juice and water. It has an acidic nature and low pH. Thus, adding fruity recipes to elevate your dinner palate is a great option. Lemon is a great option to be added to sweets and drinks. 

When the lemon extract is used as a mint substitute, it results in an extension of the shelf life of the recipe. It is also a great source to boost your immunity. Before using it, just be cautious about allergies as it is acidic. 

12. Herbal Mint Tea

Your search for the best mint substitute ends here! Another mint substitute with similar flavors is herbal mint tea. You can enjoy it with other herbs or plain. 

It totally depends on the recipe you are preparing. Also, herbal mint tea has medicinal properties such as better digestion, calming effect, and fresh breath.

It is also known for its antibacterial properties. You can use it in the same proportion as fresh mint, but if you need more, you can surely add it. 

13. Thyme 

Another mint substitute you can choose is thyme. It belongs to the similar mint family and thus can be used as an ideal substitute for mint. Thyme is widely used as seasoning in Mediterranean dishes. 

You can use it instead of mint in roasted stews or grill recipes. Want to know more about its taste? Here you go! Thyme has a strong flavor, and I rather suggest you use it in modest quantities. 

It gives a bit of mint flavor with sweetness and thus works wonders when included in marinades for fish and meat. The flavors of thyme are quite strong, and thus, it must be used in modest quantities. 

So, I suggest that while adding thyme to the recipe, start with a smaller quantity and gradually increase the amount per your taste. 

14. Lemon Balm

Well, the name suggests the flavors of lemon balm. It is a herb that adds a perfect lemony flavor and fragrance. Lemon balm serves you with similar flavors as mint but with an undertones of sweetness. 

You can use lemon balm in various dishes that demand a bright citrus punch of flavors. Use lemon balm in salads, tea, and even in desserts. Just chop the lemon balm properly and add it to your recipes. 

When it comes to using its quantity, you can easily use a bit more of it to match the flavors of the mint. However, just be careful and start by adding a small quantity. 

Adding extra lemon balm may result in an extra citrusy flavor that can overpower the recipes’ original flavors. 

15. Mint Liqueur 

Well, you can also use mint liqueur as a substitute. It falls under the category of alcoholic beverages that are made with fresh mint leaves. 

Well, it has a certain amount of alcohol, so before using it, you must consider this point while using it as an alternative. 

16. Mint Bitter

Haven’t you heard about this one? Well, mint bitter is a perfect blend of mint and sugar with a touch of alcohol. This unique recipe is quite refreshing and an ideal option when you are looking for something to add a little twist to your drinks. 

So if you want to try something new with drinks, add this recipe. You can use mint bitter as it is prepared with natural mint and other spices, thus serving the purpose well. 

This mint substitute has a tarty, tangy flavor with a hint of sweetness. Moreover, this is the perfect replacement for adding refreshments to the drinks. You can use it while preparing lime juice or other such drinks. 

17. Crème De Menthe (Syrup)

If you are looking for a non-alcoholic mint substitute, try this crème de menthe or simply say it is mint syrup. You can easily buy this from the nearby market. The best part is that this syrup is prepared with natural flavors and cane sugar. 

This syrup is quite similar to fresh mint and has intense flavors. The addition of this syrup does not even overpower the other flavors. You can use it in various recipes and drinks such as tea, smoothies, sodas, coffees, alcoholic beverages, and desserts. 

18. Dill 

Dill is an annual herb with an intense earthy and citrusy flavor and sweetness. It is popularly used to elevate the flavors of the recipes. 

You can incorporate it in soups, pickles, and salads. While adding this mint substitute to your recipes, start with less quantity as it has strong flavors and takes over the entire dish easily. 

It is known for its intense aroma, which makes it a perfect addition to your eggs and salads. Its taste might remind you of mild caraway. Just sprinkle dill on your favorite salads, and you are good to go!

Short Recap Of The Best Mint Substitutes

I know! That was quite a whole list of substitutes; remember, each is a task! If you are in a hurry and want a quick recap section, here it is! Check this short recap section for the best mint substitutes. 

Best Mint Substitutes In Terms Of Flavors–

• Parsley
• Dried Mint
• Mint Bitter
• Mint Syrup
• Basil 

Best Mint Substitutes In Terms Of Texture–

• Marjoram
• Parsley
• Basil 

Best Mint Substitutes In Terms Of Availability–

• Dried Mint
• Basil
• Parsley
• Peppermint Tea Leaves

How To Use Mint Substitutes In A Recipe

19 Best Mint Substitutes You Must Try!

Some of the best mint substitutes are parsley, cilantro, basil, dried mint, peppermint tea leaves, peppermint extract, marjoram, rosemary, tarragon, oregano, lemon extract, herbal mint tea, thyme, sage, dill, lemon balm, mint liqueur, mint bitters, and creme de menthe.

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Ingredients

  

• Flat Leaf Parsley
• Cilantro
• Basil
• Dried Mint
• Peppermint Tea Leaves
• Peppermint Extract
• Marjoram
• Rosemary
• Tarragon
• Oregano
• Lemon Extract
• Herbal Mint Tea
• Thyme
• Lemon Balm
• Mint Liqueur
• Mint Bitters
• Crème De Menthe
• Dill

Instructions

 

• Go through the substitutes and see which one seems fit for the recipe.
• Collect your ingredients and use your preferred substitute.
• Use the substitute in the required amount and make the dish according to the recipe.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Conclusion 

Mint is known for its freshness and strong menthol taste. I have mentioned the parade of mint substitutes, and you can choose whichever suits your recipe the best! 

I hope you get all your answers and know which substitute to use. So, what are you waiting for? Add a suitable mint substitute to your recipe, and you are ready!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)