Substitute for Mint: 4 Smart Options
The best substitute for mint is Dried Mint at a Use 33% ratio. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Dried Mint
Use 33%
You can use Dried Mint in place of mint when needed. Use 33% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than mint, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference.
What are the other substitutes for mint?
Basil
Use 75%
You can use Basil in place of mint when needed. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It still gives the dish useful savory depth. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Cilantro
Same amount (1:1)
Cilantro is a workable stand-in for mint. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Mint Extract
Use 6%
You can use Mint Extract in place of mint when needed. Use 6% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than mint, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What should you know before substituting mint?
Dried Mint is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to mint in everyday cooking. Use 33% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Potency varies a lot with dried spices and herbs, so taste as you go instead of making the full adjustment at once.
How do you substitute mint in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for mint and you need an alternative, there are 4 tested substitutes available. Dried Mint is the best overall replacement, used at a Use 33% ratio. The right substitute depends on the role mint plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for mint depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Dried Mint (Use 33%), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Basil (Use 75%) is another reliable choice. You can use Basil in place of mint when needed. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It still gives the dish useful savory depth. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
When substituting mint, 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. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Mint?
Dried Mint is the best place to start for mint. Use 33% 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 Mint?
This page lists 4 substitutes for mint. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.