How to Substitute Freeze-Dried Chives for Fresh Chives
Can you use freeze-dried chives as a substitute for fresh chives? Culinary experts generally agree that it is not a good idea to substitute dried chives, which most grocery stores stock in the spice section year-round, for fresh chives if a fresh version of the herb is available. Similarly, frozen chives are better left in the freezer if you are able to get fresh produce. However, when fresh chives are not readily available — which is often the case during the coldest winter months — freeze-dried chives can be used as a substitute. Before replacing the fresh chives your recipe calls for with their dehydrated counterpart, you will have to convert the fresh amount to an equivalent amount of the dried herb. To substitute freeze-dried chives for fresh chives in recipes, use the following conversion ratio as a general guideline:
1 tablespoon fresh equals 1 teaspoon dried
If your recipe calls for fresh chive blades instead of spoonfuls of chopped chives, you can use the ratio 10 chive blades equal about 1 teaspoon of freeze-dried chives.
Keep in mind that the above conversion ratios are just rules of thumb. Factors like differences in the size of one fresh chive blade and the remaining shelf life of your packet of freeze-dried chives can have a significant impact on the ideal conversion formulas. Therefore, it is always best to let your taste buds be the ultimate judge of what the ideal amount of freeze-dried chives should be for your recipe.
Other Herbs That Can Be Substituted for Chives
The above conversion tips are helpful if you don't have fresh chives but have freeze-dried chives. But what if you have neither fresh nor dried chives at home? In such a situation, there's no need to panic. There are several herbs that can be substituted for chives in salads, soups, omelets and many other dishes. For example, finely chopped scallion greens are usually a good substitute for chives; however, they boast a stronger onion flavor so you may want to use less than the amount indicated in the recipe. Garlic chives, which can be distinguished from common chives by their flat leaves and white flowers, are another viable substitute for common chives.
Book You May Like
How many times have you started a recipe only to find that you're missing an ingredient? With Becky Sue Epstein's Substituting Ingredients on your bookshelf, you can reduce those mid-recipe trips to the grocery store and still get amazing results. This ingenious cooking companion provides more than 1,000 substitutions for difficult-to-find items, common ingredients you may not have on hand, and expensive ingredients you might want to replace with cheaper substitutes. You'll also find simple recipes for condiments, marinades sauces and spice mixtures, as well as tips on how to remedy too much of too little of an ingredient. Available here through Amazon.
