Running low on lemongrass? No worries! You can easily swap it with things like lemon zest, lime zest, or even lemon juice. Or, if you have some on hand, you can try using lemon balm or lemon verbena instead.

1.Fresh Ginger + Coriander

No lemons here, but that’s totally fine! Lemongrass brings more to the table than just tartness. The dynamic duo of fresh ginger and coriander steps in to replicate those deep, earthy flavors of lemongrass perfectly.

Ginger steps up with its earthy punch, while coriander adds a hint of citrusy brightness with a spicy edge. This is hands-down one of the best substitutes for lemongrass, and the best part? You probably already have everything you need right in your kitchen.

It’s a game-changer for when lemongrass isn’t on hand!

2.Lemon Verbena

Lemon verbena is the ultimate citrus hero, delivering a more vibrant zing than even lemongrass! Cooking with it brings out a bold, bright flavor, sweet but not overly so.

It’s like lemongrass minus the earthy notes. When substituting, remember: a little lemon verbena goes a long way. Start with a small amount and add more to taste–its potency can quickly take over a dish.

3.Lemongrass Paste (Kreung)

No fresh lemongrass on hand? No worries! Lemongrass paste is here to save the day. You can easily find it at most Asian grocery stores, making it a convenient substitute.

A little goes a long way with lemongrass paste–it’s super potent. Just use one tablespoon of paste for every fresh stalk you’re replacing. It’s a simple swap that keeps your dishes flavorful and fresh!

4.Lemon Zest

Lemon zest is probably sitting in your fridge right now, just waiting to add a burst of citrus flavor to your dishes! To get that perfect zest, use a zester to gently scrape off the yellow layer of the lemon peel.

Be careful to avoid the white pith underneath–it’s super bitter and definitely not what you want. While lemon zest doesn’t have the same earthy vibe as lemongrass, it brings a bright, fresh flavor that’s all its own.

Plus, you can use it as a 1:1 substitute for lemongrass in recipes if you’re in a pinch. It’s a simple way to add a little zing to your cooking!

5.Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is a simple substitute that brings a burst of citrus freshness to your dish, much like lemongrass. While it’s super tart and doesn’t have that warm, earthy flavor of lemongrass, it adds a bright, zesty note to your curry.

Start with half the amount you’d use for lemongrass and taste as you go, adjusting to your liking. Remember, a little lemon juice goes a long way because of its acidity, so add it sparingly for the perfect balance of flavors.

6.Dried Lemongrass

Meet your new flavor hero: dried lemongrass! This powerhouse ingredient is just as versatile as lemongrass paste and works wonders in both teas and dishes.

Since dried lemongrass packs a strong punch, start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Here’s a good rule of thumb: if a recipe calls for one stalk of fresh lemongrass, try using one tablespoon of dried instead.

Perfect for sipping or cooking, this ingredient is a must-try for any flavor lover!

7.Arugula + Lemon Zest

Brighten up your dishes with a fresh flavor combo that’s all about balance. Lemongrass brings its signature earthy charm, while arugula adds a peppery kick.

Then, lemon zest steps in with a citrusy sweetness to tie it all together. This trio shines in soups, stews, and curries, adding depth and a burst of freshness to every bite.

8.Lime Zest

Lime zest packs a big citrus punch, way more than lemon zest. Just like with lemons, stick to the green skin and skip the bitter white pith. Since lime zest is super potent, a little goes a long way.

If a recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of lemongrass, start with 1/2 tablespoon of lime zest. Pro tip: taste as you go and add more if needed. Start small to avoid overpowering the dish.

9.Kaffir Lime Leaves

In the world of spices, kaffir lime leaves and lemongrass are like close cousins. Kaffir lime leaves really shine in soups, stews, and curries, bringing a vibrant tropical flavor.

They strike a perfect balance between bitter, sweet, and citrusy, making them a bit more potent than lemongrass. If you’re swapping lemongrass for kaffir lime leaves, remember to use half as much–they pack a bigger flavor punch!

10.Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a herb that thrives in temperate climates, making it a great addition to any garden. Think of it as the mild-mannered cousin of lemongrass – it shares similar citrus, sweet, and earthy flavors but in a softer, more subtle way.

If a recipe calls for one lemongrass stalk, you can substitute it with about four lemon balm leaves, adjusting to taste. This versatile herb is perfect for adding a delicate citrus touch to your dishes.