Convert a recipe’s fresh-herb measurement into the equivalent amount of dried herb.
How it works
Dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor, so less is needed: dried amount = fresh amount ÷ ratio, using the standard 3:1 kitchen rule of thumb. 3 teaspoons of fresh herb converts to about 1 teaspoon dried.
What this does not include
3:1 is a widely used approximation, not an exact figure — actual potency varies by herb and how it was dried, so the ratio is adjustable if you know a specific herb behaves differently.
How to use this calculator
- Enter the fresh herb amount your recipe calls for.
- Adjust the ratio if needed for a specific herb.
Why is dried herb more concentrated than fresh?
Drying removes water content, concentrating the herb’s essential oils and flavor compounds into a smaller volume, so a little dried herb packs the same punch as more fresh herb.
Does the 3:1 ratio apply equally to every herb?
Not exactly — some herbs (like rosemary or thyme) hold their flavor well when dried, while more delicate herbs (like basil or cilantro) lose more character, so the “right” ratio can vary somewhat by herb.
Can I convert the other direction, from dried to fresh?
Yes — multiply the dried amount by the ratio instead of dividing, the reverse of what this calculator does.
