Widely used in French cuisine, chervil is an interesting herb with a mild flavor that’s worth trying. The question is, what can you do if you need it for a recipe but you don’t have it? Short answer: make your recipe with one of these excellent chervil substitutes!
Chervil is an annual herb that belongs to the parsley family. It has a fairly mild anise flavor and is often used as a garnish and for seasoning salads, soup, fish, and poultry dishes.
If you can’t find chervil at your local grocery store, you don’t need to worry!
There are plenty of delicious substitutes that will work just as well in your recipes, and we’re here to shed light on the most suitable options.
11 Best Chervil Substitutes
If you’re looking for a delicious chervil substitute, you’ve come to the right place.
Here are some of the replacements that will tantalize your taste buds and add all the right flavors to your dishes.
Parsley
Parsley is a common ingredient in many dishes, but did you know that it can also be used as a chervil substitute?
While parsley doesn’t taste exactly like chervil, it can still add a mild touch of flavor to your dish.
We love the fresh quality parsley can give to satisfying recipes like air fryer carrots, air fryer chicken tenders, air fryer bang bang chicken meatballs, and this scrumptious honey dijon salmon.
Parsley is also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, which can help boost the nutritional value of your meal.
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Cilantro
Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a versatile herb that’s used in various dishes, from Mexican to Thai.
While it is most commonly used in salsa and guacamole, cilantro can also be used to replace chervil.
Cilantro has a similar flavor to chervil, with a slightly citrusy note. In addition, this herb is a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants.
When substituting cilantro for chervil, use half as much cilantro as you would chervil.
This will ensure that the dish doesn’t become overpowered by the cilantro flavor.
Dill
Dill is often used as a chervil substitute because it has a similar flavor profile. It offers a slightly minty taste that can add an extra depth of flavor to dishes.
The herb is often used in pickling recipes and added to salads and soups. It can also be used as a garnish for fish or meat dishes.
Fennel
Fennel is a versatile herb that can be used in a range of dishes. It has a delicate flavor similar to anise and can be used fresh or dried.
Fennel is a common ingredient in Mediterranean and Indian cuisine and is also a popular chervil substitute.
When substituting fennel for chervil, keep in mind that the flavor will be more pronounced, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
It pairs well with fish, poultry, and vegetables and it’s often used in soups, stews, salads, and sauces.
Of course, there are even some creative uses. Next time you’re throwing a BBQ party, I totally recommend you try grilled fennel. It’s such an easy side dish and you might enjoy eating it even on its own!
Basil
Basil is a delicious and nutritious herb that has many benefits. Basil is a good source of vitamins A and K, iron, magnesium, and calcium.
It also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds! These compounds can protect the body against disease.
In addition to its health benefits, basil has a wonderful flavor that can enhance the taste of many dishes.
Basil can be used fresh, dry, or in pesto form, making it a versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes.
If you’re looking for new and exciting ways to use this enjoyable herb, try this low-carb portobello mushroom pizza, our effortless Instant Pot fettucine bolognese, a scrumptious caprese quiche that can feed a crowd, or even making your own homemade marinara sauce!
Marjoram
Marjoram is a herb that belongs to the mint family. It’s native to Mediterranean regions and has been used in cooking since ancient times.
Marjoram is pretty nutritious because of its vitamins A and C, in addition to iron and calcium components.
Marjoram has a mild flavor compared to chervil and is often used to flavor chicken, fish, and vegetables. It can also be used to make tea!
What’s more, this herb contains compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Marjoram is widely available in dried form and can also be found fresh in many supermarkets.
We tried it in various combinations for our air fryer cornish hen and I have to say each mix had a unique appeal!
Tarragon
Tarragon is a perennial herb that’s native to central Asia. It’s also a popular ingredient in several French dishes.
The herb has been used for centuries in both cooking and medicine. It has a pretty similar flavor to anise and chervil, with a hint of vanilla.
It can be used fresh or dried and is often used to flavor different types of vinegar (white wine vinegar) and oil (coconut oil and peanut oil).
Tarragon is rich in vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium. It’s also packed with tannins, which offer astringent properties.
Tannins are believed to help reduce inflammation and soothe sore throats.
Tarragon tea is sometimes used as a home remedy for indigestion. Moreover, tarragon essential oil is often used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation.
Chives
Chives are a type of onion often used as a flavoring or garnish in dishes. They’re a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and iron.
This herb also contains folic acid, which is essential for pregnant women.
The chives plant grows in bunches and has long, narrow leaves that are green in color.
Chives have a mild onion flavor and are considered to be one of the more delicate herbs. They can be used fresh, frozen, or dried and are available year-round.
When using fresh chives, cut them right before adding them to your dish to preserve their flavor. They can be used in Instant Pot Cauliflower Soup, Easy Pasta Salad, Air Fryer Steak Tips, and Honey Gold Potatoes.
I use them as a fresh and flavorful topping for mashed veggies like mashed rutabaga, and mashed cauliflower. Chives also seem to go really well with potato dishes such as smashed potatoes, and potato salad.
For meats and vegetables, fresh chives are usually used as a garnish. Dried chives, per contra, can be added to bread and other baked goods.
Chives should be stored in a cool, dry place. If you have access to a dark cupboard or pantry, that would be ideal.
Chives will last for up to 2 weeks if stored properly. You can also chop chives and store them in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Swiss Chard
Swiss chard is a leafy vegetable that’s often used in Mediterranean cooking. It offers a slightly bitter flavor and is high in vitamins A, C, and K. Swiss chard also contains remarkable amounts of iron, magnesium, and potassium.
In addition to being a healthy food option, Swiss chard also provides some important health benefits.
For example, Swiss chard has been shown to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Swiss chard is also a good source of fiber, which can help to regulate the digestive system.
This is a versatile vegetable that can be eaten cooked or raw. It can be added to soups, stews, salads, or used as wraps and sandwiches.
Arugula
Arugula is an incredibly nutritious plant that provides a range of health benefits. It’s quite rich in vitamins A and C, as well as folate, iron, and calcium.
Arugula also contains a compound called glucosinolate, which has been shown to have cancer-preventing properties.
In addition to its nutritional value, arugula is also prized for its unique flavor. Its slightly peppery taste adds a delicious zing to salads and pasta dishes.
We used it as a topping on this easy savory pumpkin pizza made with store-bought dough and needless to say, there were no leftovers!
Spinach
Spinach is a versatile and nutrient-packed alternative to chervil. It’s also widely available at most supermarkets, both fresh and canned.
Spinach is a leafy green vegetable often used in salads and other dishes. It’s a good source of iron and calcium and is rich in vitamins A and C.
Spinach has plenty of health benefits, such as boosting energy levels, improving digestion, and reducing inflammation.
Spinach has a mild flavor that’s often described as earthy or grassy. It can be consumed raw in salads, cooked as a side dish, or used in soups, stews, and casseroles.
Spinach can also be added to Frozen Smoothies in Mason Jars or juices for an extra nutritional boost.
How to Use Chervil Substitutes in Recipes
If you’re used to using chervil as a garnish, any of the alternatives we just listed can be used as a replacement. All you have to do is snip or chop them into small pieces and sprinkle them over your dish before serving.
For recipes that call for cooked chervil, you can use spinach or Swiss chard as a substitute.
Just keep in mind that these greens will cook down much more than chervil, so you may need to use more of them to get the desired effect.
Chervil’s Uses and Availability
Chervil is a herb that’s part of the parsley family. It’s native to the Mediterranean region and has a mild, sweet flavor that’s often used in French cuisine.
The leaves of the chervil plant are delicate and lacy, and they can be used fresh or dried. When used fresh, chervil is often added to salads or used as a garnish. It can also be used to flavor soups, stews, and sauces.
Dried chervil is available in the spice section of most grocery stores. It’s excellent for seasoning meat and vegetables, soup mixes, and salad dressings.
Chervil is more challenging to find than its cousins—parsley and cilantro—in most marketplaces outside of specialized shops.
Chervil is available year-round but is most plentiful in spring and early summer. It’s usually sold in small bunches with the roots still attached.
In the United States, Chervil can be found at most grocery stores.
When purchasing chervil, look for bright green leaves free of brown spots or wilting. Chervil can also be grown at home in an outdoor garden or indoor windowsill planter.
You can prolong the shelf life of chervil by storing it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.
All of your substitutes needs all in one handy reference spot! Comprehensive list substitutes here or to print off for your own menu binder. You to find an ingredient option that will allow you to not run out to the store or you may find a flavor combination you love even better than the original. Garlic Powder Substitute, Cojita Cheese Substitute, Parsley Substitute, Green Chilis Substitute, Italian Seasoning Substitute, Mustard Seed Substitute, Cilantro Substitute, Sriracha Substitute, White Pepper Substitute, Onion Powder Substitute, Five Spice Substitute, Turmeric Substitutes, White Wine Vinegar, Cardamon Substitute, Parsley Substitute, Cremini Mushroom Substitute, Egg Yolk, Leeks, Egg Wash, Coconut Cream, Tomato, Stewed Tomatoes, Coconut Sugar, Palm Sugar, Hoisin, Adobo, Chili Sauce, Oyster Sauce, Escarole, Watercress, Rice Wine Vinegar, Ketchup, Tomato Puree, Tomato Paste, Lemongrass, Chervil, Cheesecloth, Worcestershire Sauce, Fennel, Dark Soy Sauce.
Wrapping Up
There are many herbs that can be used as a substitute for chervil. Chives, arugula, and spinach are all excellent options.
Each of these herbs has its own unique flavor that can add a delicious zing to your dish. So, no matter which substitution you choose, your dish will still be delicious!
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