Substitutes for Herbes de Provence
Herbes de Provence is a French herb blend typically containing thyme, rosemary, oregano, marjoram, savory, and sometimes lavender.
The Short Answer
The best substitute for herbes de provence is Italian Seasoning. Very similar blend. Italian seasoning contains most of the same herbs (thyme, oregano, rosemary, basil). Missing lavende
Best Substitutes
Italian Seasoning 👨🔬 Professor's Pick
Ratio: 1:1 replacement
Works for: roasted meats, vegetables, chicken, tomato sauces
Avoid for: recipes where lavender notes are essential
Flavor impact: Very similar blend. Italian seasoning contains most of the same herbs (thyme, oregano, rosemary, basil). Missing lavender and savory but the overall character is close.
DIY Blend
Ratio: Mix equal parts: thyme, rosemary, oregano, marjoram + pinch of lavender (optional)
Works for: all recipes calling for herbes de Provence
Flavor impact: Custom blend that matches herbes de Provence exactly. Skip the lavender if you do not have it; many commercial blends omit it too.
The lavender in herbes de Provence is debated. Traditional Provencal cooks did not include lavender; it was added for the American export market as a marketing touch. If your blend has lavender, use it sparingly. If it does not, your dish will still be authentically Provencal.
Frequently Asked Questions
The classic blend includes thyme, rosemary, oregano, marjoram, and savory. Some versions add lavender, basil, tarragon, or fennel. There is no single official recipe.
Very similar but not identical. Herbes de Provence may include lavender and savory, which Italian seasoning does not. Italian seasoning usually contains basil, which herbes de Provence sometimes omits. In most cooking, they are interchangeable.
Rub on chicken, lamb, or pork before roasting. Add to roasted vegetables, soups, stews, and tomato sauces. Mix with olive oil for bread dipping. It is versatile across most savory cooking.
The Bottom Line
When you need a substitute for herbes de provence, your best bet is Italian Seasoning. The right choice depends on your recipe and dietary needs. Start with the Professor's Pick and adjust from there.