So, you’re halfway through making a cozy Thai curry, or a bright and fresh Vietnamese soup, and then – oops – you realize you’re out of lemongrass. That aromatic, citrusy herb that’s the star of so many Southeast Asian dishes is now MIA from your spice rack. But no worries! Here’s the ultimate guide to an alternative to lemongrass (5 types) so you can keep your dish tasting vibrant and delicious.
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LEMONGRASS SUBSTITUTION
So next time you’re out of lemongrass, don’t panic! Try one of these substitutions to bring out that bright, aromatic flavor.
While nothing can completely mimic lemongrass, these few swaps will help you get close – and add some extra flavor.
🌱 WHAT IS LEMONGRASS?
Lemongrass is a tall, tropical herb known for its unique citrusy aroma and flavor. It has long, thin stalks and is commonly used in Southeast Asian cooking, especially in Thai, Vietnamese, and Indonesian dishes. The stalks themselves are firm and fibrous, so they’re usually sliced thin or crushed to release their oils, then removed before serving.
WHAT IS LEMONGRASS COMMONLY USED FOR?
It’s commonly used in curries, soups, marinades, and teas and has a unique ability to stand out even among other strong flavors like garlic and chilies.
WHAT DOES LEMONGRASS TASTE LIKE?
Lemongrass is a bold, slightly citrusy herb. It brings lemony freshness with hints of ginger, making it a favorite in dishes that need a little zing and aroma.
🍋 5 EASY LEMON GRASS SUBSTITUTES
1. LEMON ZEST + GINGER (BEST FOR FRESH LEMONGRASS)
If you’re looking for the closest taste to fresh lemongrass, the combo of lemon zest and ginger will do the trick. The zest gives that bright citrus flavor, while ginger adds warmth.
🥄 SUBSTITUTION RATIO:
Use 1 teaspoon of lemon zest and ½ teaspoon of minced fresh ginger for each stalk of lemongrass.
👩🏽🍳 WHEN TO USE:
This combo works perfectly in broths, soups, curries, and marinades where fresh lemongrass is usually called for
2. LIME LEAVES (FOR BROTHS AND CURRIES)
If you happen to have lime leaves, you’re in luck! They’re another staple of Southeast Asian cooking and deliver a similar citrus flavor, although they’re less intense than lemongrass. Crushed lime leaves also give off a light, aromatic taste that complements many lemongrass-based recipes.
🥄 SUBSTITUTION RATIO:
Use 1-2 lime leaves in place of each stalk of lemongrass.
👩🏼🍳 WHEN TO USE:
Great for soups, stews, and curries. Just remember to remove the leaves before serving, as they can be tough.
3. LEMON JUICE + GINGER (QUICK & EASY FOR MARINADES AND DRESSINGS)
For a quick swap, combine lemon juice with ginger powder (or fresh grated ginger if you have it). This won’t give you the exact complexity of lemongrass, but it’s close enough for marinades, dressings, and sauces.
🥄 SUBSTITUTION RATIO:
Mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice with ¼ teaspoon of grated ginger for each stalk of lemongrass.
👩🏼🍳 WHEN TO USE:
Perfect for marinades, salad dressings, or sauces that won’t require long cooking times.
4. LEMON ZEST + LEMON JUICE (GREAT IN SOUPS AND CURRIES)
This combo is another good stand-in for that unique lemongrass taste. Lime juice adds a sharper edge, while lemon zest brings in a balanced citrus note.
🥄 SUBSTITUTION RATIO:
1 teaspoon of lemon zest and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice per stalk of lemongrass.
👩🏼🍳 WHEN TO USE:
Best for curries, soups, or stir-fries where lemongrass is added for a burst of citrusy freshness.
5. CILANTRO STEAMS + LIME JUICE
Surprise! Cilantro stems bring a slight citrusy edge with a hint of earthiness, especially when paired with lime juice.
🥄 SUBSTITUTION RATIO:
Use 2-3 tablespoons of chopped cilantro stems with 1 teaspoon of lime juice per stalk of lemongrass.
👩🏼🍳 WHEN TO USE:
Great in soups, stews, and marinades, especially when cooking Southeast Asian recipes that already include cilantro.
📝 TIPS AND TRICKS
Adjust to Taste: Start with smaller amounts, especially when using lime leaves or lemon zest, as these substitutes can sometimes be overpowering.
Don’t Overdo the Juice: Lemon or lime juice can bring a strong acidic punch. Stick with the ratios above to avoid an overpoweringly sour taste.
❓FAQS
You’ll often find lemongrass sold fresh in the produce section of grocery stores, especially in Asian markets, though it’s also available dried or as a powder for convenience.
Yes, but only the tender inner part. The outer stalks are tough and fibrous, so they’re usually removed.
Not necessarily. You can also finely slice it but crushing lemongrass helps release its aromatic oils.
Yes, lemongrass contains citronella oil, which is known to repel mosquitoes! Many people use lemongrass or citronella-based products as a natural mosquito repellent.
Nikki says
Please let me know how your recipe turned out with using anyone of these alternatives. ☺️ Nikki x