Best Substitutes for Bay Leaves
A pinch of dried thyme plus a small amount of oregano approximates bay leaf’s subtle, woodsy flavor.
Best overall swap
Dried thyme (small pinch)
1/4 tsp per 1 bay leafNot identical, but adds a similar herbal backbone to soups and braises.
All Substitutes for Bay Leaves
Dried thyme (small pinch)
1/4 tsp per 1 bay leafNot identical, but adds a similar herbal backbone to soups and braises.
Ground bay leaf
1/4 tsp ground per 1 whole leafThe most direct substitute if you have it — much more concentrated than whole leaves.
Rosemary or oregano (small pinch)
1/4 tsp per 1 bay leafA reasonable stand-in for the subtle background flavor bay leaves add to slow-cooked dishes.