26 Easy Spice Substitutions

Spices and herbs are the unsung heroes of any kitchen. They add depth, aroma, and that irresistible touch of magic to your dishes. But what happens when you’re halfway through a recipe and realize you’re out of cumin or basil? Panic? Nope—not in this kitchen!

With a little creativity and some handy know-how, you can swap out missing ingredients for clever alternatives without missing a beat. Whether you’re in a pinch, saving a trip to the store, or just looking to experiment, this guide is here to save the day.

Stick around, and you’ll discover 26 easy spice substitutions that’ll keep your recipes on point and your pantry stress-free. Ready to spice up your cooking game? Then keep reading!

Common Herbs & Spice Substitutions

Swapping out herbs and spices can be a lifesaver in the kitchen. Not only does it help you keep cooking when you’re out of an ingredient, but it also gives you a chance to experiment with flavors and discover new favorites. Substitutions are budget-friendly, reduce waste, and save you a last-minute trip to the store—definitely a win for busy cooks!

That said, substitutions can sometimes change the final flavor of a dish. While some swaps are nearly identical, others might shift the taste in a new direction. The key is understanding which alternatives work best and how to balance flavors to suit your recipe.

The following list breaks down the best substitutions for common herbs and spices, giving you the tools to keep your cooking delicious, even in a pinch.

Allspice

Mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves, or use mace in small amounts.

Aniseed

Crushed fennel seeds or a few drops of anise extract.

Basil

Fresh or dried oregano, or thyme as a milder alternative.

Cardamom

Ground ginger or a blend of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Chili Powder

Combine paprika, cumin, and a dash of cayenne or hot sauce.

Chives

Finely chopped green onions or leeks.

Cilantro (Coriander)

Parsley for a mild flavor alternative.

Cinnamon

Ground allspice or nutmeg; use half the amount.

Cloves

Substitute with a mix of cinnamon and allspice or a pinch of nutmeg.

Cumin

Use ground coriander or a mix of caraway seeds and paprika.

Fenugreek

Curry powder or a pinch of garam masala.

Ginger

Ground allspice, nutmeg, or a mix of cinnamon and cloves.

Italian Seasoning

A mix of oregano, basil, rosemary, and a dash of red pepper.

Mint

Basil, marjoram, or fresh rosemary for a unique flavor.

Mustard (Dry or Ground)

Horseradish powder, wasabi powder (half as much), or prepared mustard.

Nutmeg

Cinnamon or ground ginger for a similar warmth.

Oregano

Thyme or fresh basil.

Parsley

Tarragon, chervil, or cilantro.

Poultry Seasoning

A combination of sage, thyme, marjoram, and black pepper.

Red Pepper Flakes

Use cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce.

Rosemary

Thyme or savory as substitutes.

Sage

Replace with marjoram, savory, or rosemary.

Savory

Thyme or marjoram for a similar profile.

Thyme

Use marjoram, oregano, or savory as alternatives.

Turmeric

Ground mustard mixed with a touch of annatto powder.

How to Make Your Own Seasoning Salt

Seasoning salt is hands-down my most used seasoning—I put that stuff on everything! It adds a perfect balance of salt, spice, and just a little something extra to meats, veggies, potatoes, and even popcorn.

While I usually just grab a store-bought version (because, let’s be honest, it’s way more convenient), you can absolutely make your own if that’s the way you roll.

What You’ll Need

• ½ cup salt (regular table salt, sea salt, or even a mix)
• 2 tablespoons paprika (for color and a mild smokiness)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sugar (balances the flavors, optional)
• ½ teaspoon turmeric (adds depth and a hint of color)
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (if you like a little kick)

How to Make It

1. Mix It Up – In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients until well combined. If you want an extra-fine texture, pulse everything in a spice grinder or food processor.
2. Taste & Adjust – Everyone’s taste buds are different! Feel free to tweak the ratios—add more garlic if that’s your thing, go easy on the salt if you prefer, or throw in a little smoked paprika for extra depth.
3. Store It Right – Transfer your seasoning salt to an airtight container (a small spice jar or even a repurposed shaker works great). Keep it in a cool, dry place, and it’ll stay fresh for months.

Now you’ve got a homemade seasoning salt ready to sprinkle on just about anything. Give it a try on roasted veggies, grilled chicken, fries, or even scrambled eggs. It’s one of those kitchen staples you’ll find yourself reaching for over and over again!