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A staple in the culinary world, chives are well known for their onion-like flavor. They impart a unique flavor to a variety of cuisines and are used worldwide due to their characteristics. Their crisp texture makes them a top choice for garnishing, and they are also well-liked in soups, etc. If you find yourself out of chives and rushing to get something cooked before heading to work, you’ll need a quick and effective substitute to save time. Don’t worry; we have got you covered with the top substitute options for chives. So, without further ado, let’s get into the guide.
1. Green Onion (Scallions) as a Substitute for Chives
Green onion is the first champion in the list of substitutes for dried chives. Chives belong to the family of onions, so using scallions is a wise option.
Overview
Considered scallions green, green onions are arguably the most accessible and often used substitute for fresh chives. They taste just like mild onions, so they work well in most recipes. Though they have a slightly stronger flavor, green onion tops are very similar to chives in both appearance and flavor. So, we can say that it is the star in the list for substitution for chives. You can also substitute chives for green onions.
How to Use Green Onions
- To garnish or add to salads, use the scallions green tops of the green onions instead of chives.
- Add them to stir-fries, stews, and soups to enhance the flavor.
- Finely chop them, then toss them with mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, or omelets.
Taste Profile: Slightly pungent than chives, with a mild onion flavor.
2. Leeks as Substitute for Chives
It is important to note that you can substitute leeks for chives for a similar flavor profile.
Overview
Another great substitute for fresh chives is leeks, particularly if you want a deeper onion flavor. Leeks’ pale green and white sections can be substituted for chives in cooked recipes, but because of their stronger onion flavor, they are rarely used as a raw garnish.
How to Use Leeks
- Finely chop leeks and add them to quiches, soups, or casseroles.
- Sauté leeks as a tasty side dish with other veggies.
- In recipes calling for a stronger onion flavor, use them in place of chives.
Flavor Profile: Stronger than chives, mild to moderate onion flavor.
3. Garlic Chives
Another substitute for fresh chives is garlic chives, which are akin to normal chives.
Overview
Garlic chives, or Chinese chives, are closely related to regular chives, but their mild garlic flavor adds a special touch. They can make a great substitute for fresh chives in recipes that benefit from a little garlic flavor.
How to use Garlic Chives
- Garnish soups, noodles, or dumplings with them.
- Use them to add a garlicky and oniony flavor to stir-fries or fried rice.
- Finely chop and incorporate into cream cheese spreads or herb butter.
Taste Profile: Slightly peppery with a touch of onion.
4. Parsley as Substitute for Chives
If your recipe calls for dried or fresh chives and you are out of them, parsley is a great substitute.
Overview
When you need a fresh green garnish, parsley is a versatile herb that may substitute for fresh chives. It lacks the onion flavor that chives offer, but its vivid color and subtle flavor make it a good substitute in many recipes.
How to Use Parsley
- Add chopped parsley to spaghetti, stews, and soups as a garnish.
- You can add parsley to add a fresh, herbaceous flavor to marinades, sauces, and salads.
- To make parsley taste more akin to chives, mix it with just a little chopped onion or wild garlic.
Flavor Profile: Light, crisp, with a hint of pepper.
5. Shallots
Shallots are here for rescue if you don’t prefer any of the above options and are still wondering what I can substitute for chives.
Overview
Shallots are a good substitute for chives in cooked foods because they have a more subtle and sweet onion flavor. They can enhance recipes’ richness and depth without competing with other flavors.
How to Use Shallots
- Shallots can be used in vinaigrettes, dressings, and sauces by finely chopping them.
- Use sautéed shallots as a foundation for risottos, stews, and soups.
- In recipes calling for cooking the herb, use them in place of dried chives.
Taste Profile: sugary with a light onion flavor.
6. Powdered onion
This is a staple in the culinary world, and is used in a variety of cuisines to impart spicy and savory taste of onion.
Overview
Onion powder is a handy replacement for fresh chives, especially in recipes calling for dry seasoning. Although onion powder does not have the vibrant green color of chives, it can nonetheless deliver the desired onion flavor.
How to Use Onion Powder
- For a quick flavor boost, add onion powder to soups, sauces, or dressings.
- Apply it to meat and vegetable marinades and spice rubs.
- To make a seasoning blend, combine with more herbs and spices.
Taste Profile: Strong onion taste.
While we are on the subject of powdered onion, it also has various substitutes that you can check in this article.
7. Fennel Fronds as Substitute for Chives
Last, on the list of replacements for chives, fennel fronds are going to save you from worrying about finding an ideal alternative.
Overview
The feathery leaves of the fennel plant, known as fronds, can replace fresh chives with something special and tasty. They are a visually pleasing garnish with a faint anise-like flavor and a vivid green color.
How to Use Fennel Fronds
- Garnish salads, roasted vegetables, and seafood dishes with fennel fronds.
- To add a hint of anise to sauces, dips, or condiments.
- Finely chop and combine with other herbs to create a tasty herbal mixture.
Flavor Profile: A subtle sweetness and mild anise flavor.
If you want to have information about the fennel frond replacements, check out this article for in-depth information.
Conclusion
Summing up, the article covered top substitutes for chives to impart a flavor similar to the dishes. If you follow our article guide, you can get your hands on easy herbs to use as replacements in your dishes. Try out now and thank us later.
