Substitute for Lovage: 4 Smart Options
The best substitute for lovage is Celery Leaves at a Use 150% ratio. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Celery Leaves
Use 150%
Celery Leaves works as a substitute for lovage in many recipes. Use 150% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. The flavor lands a bit softer than the original, so you may want a final taste adjustment. It is especially useful in soups. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What are the other substitutes for lovage?
Dill
Use 75%
You can use Dill in place of lovage when needed. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It still gives the dish useful savory depth.
Dried lovage leaves
Use 33%
Dried lovage leaves works as a substitute for lovage in many recipes. Use 33% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Parsley with Fennel Seed
Same amount (1:1)
Parsley with Fennel Seed is a workable stand-in for lovage. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What should you know before substituting lovage?
Celery Leaves is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to lovage in everyday cooking. Use 150% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Focus on whether you need the closest flavor, the right texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.
How do you substitute lovage in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for lovage and you need an alternative, there are 4 tested substitutes available. Celery Leaves is the best overall replacement, used at a Use 150% ratio. The right substitute depends on the role lovage plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for lovage depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Celery Leaves (Use 150%), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Dill (Use 75%) is another reliable choice. You can use Dill in place of lovage when needed. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It still gives the dish useful savory depth.
When substituting lovage, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Lovage?
Celery Leaves is the best place to start for lovage. Use 150% of the original amount and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Lovage?
This page lists 4 substitutes for lovage. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.
What is a vegan substitute for Lovage?
Celery Leaves is a good vegan option for lovage. Start with 150% of the original amount and fine-tune after tasting.