Lemongrass has a bright, citrusy flavor that’s hard to beat, especially in dishes like curries and soups. But if you’re in a pinch and need a substitute for lemongrass, don’t worry—there are plenty of great options to keep your recipe on track.
What Does Lemongrass Taste Like?
Lemongrass has a unique flavor that combines citrusy brightness with earthy and slightly minty undertones. In Southeast Asian cooking, it plays a vital role in balancing rich, spicy, or savory dishes. Its fresh aroma also contributes to the overall appeal of a dish, making it a common ingredient in recipes that aim for bold yet refreshing flavors.
Best Substitutes for Lemongrass
If fresh lemongrass isn’t available, there are plenty of ingredients that can step in and do the job. Here are some of the best options to consider, depending on what you’re cooking.
1. Lime Zest and Ginger
The combination of lime zest and ginger is one of the most reliable substitutes. Lime zest brings the citrusy kick, while ginger adds warmth that mimics the herbal undertone of lemongrass.
• How to use: For every stalk of lemongrass, combine 1 teaspoon of lime zest with ½ teaspoon of grated ginger.
2. Lemon Zest
If the recipe primarily relies on the citrus notes of lemongrass, lemon zest can work as a simple alternative. While it doesn’t have the herbal qualities, it can still bring brightness to your dish.
• How to use: Use 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for each stalk of lemongrass.
3. Kaffir Lime Leaves
Kaffir lime leaves, commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine, have a bold citrus flavor that can replicate lemongrass in many dishes.
• How to use: Use 2 kaffir lime leaves as a substitute for 1 stalk of lemongrass. You can add them whole to soups or finely chop them for sauces or marinades.
4. Lemongrass Paste
For convenience, lemongrass paste is an excellent option. It’s widely available in grocery stores and delivers a flavor similar to fresh lemongrass.
• How to use: Substitute 1 tablespoon of paste for 1 stalk of lemongrass.
5. Lemon Balm
This herb has a mild citrus flavor that makes it a good option for dishes like soups or teas. While not as bold as lemongrass, it still adds a refreshing touch.
• How to use: Use a small handful of fresh lemon balm leaves to flavor your dish, adjusting to taste.
6. Coriander and Lime
Ground coriander has subtle citrus notes, which, when combined with lime zest or juice, can create a flavor similar to lemongrass.
• How to use: Mix 1 teaspoon of ground coriander with 1 teaspoon of lime zest as a substitute for 1 stalk of lemongrass.
Substitutes for Specific Dishes
Different recipes may require different substitutions to get the closest flavor match.
• Soups and Curries: Lime zest and ginger are great for brothy dishes where the flavors need to infuse during cooking.
• Marinades and Sauces: Lemongrass paste or a combination of coriander and lime works well to replicate the tangy and herbal notes.
• Teas and Beverages: Lemon balm or kaffir lime leaves are ideal for adding citrusy, refreshing aromas to teas and other drinks.
Adjust the quantities as needed based on your recipe and taste preferences.
Wrapping Up: Lemongrass Alternatives
Although fresh lemongrass has a unique flavor, there are plenty of substitutes that can capture its citrusy and aromatic qualities. Lime zest paired with ginger is one of the best options, while alternatives like kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass paste, or even lemon balm can also work beautifully depending on the dish. With these ideas, you can keep your recipes flavorful and balanced, even when fresh lemongrass isn’t available.
You Might Also Like
- Need a chives substitute? This post explains which swaps work well in various recipes.