Can poultry seasoning be substituted for sage?

While poultry seasoning can contain sage as a component, it is not a suitable substitute for sage. Poultry seasoning is a generic blend of herbs and spices that typically includes sage along with other ingredients like thyme, rosemary, marjoram, pepper, and salt. The overall flavor profile of poultry seasoning is more complex and savory, while sage is distinctive for its slightly bitter, earthy taste.

Therefore, using poultry seasoning instead of sage will alter the flavor and aroma of the dish. If you don't have sage on hand, you can consider other substitutes that either contain sage or emulate its unique notes, such as:

- Fresh or dried thyme

- Fresh or dried marjoram

- Fresh or dried oregano

- Rubbed sage (a pre-ground version of dried sage)

- Commercial sage seasoning (a blend that primarily contains sage)

In general, it's best to stick to the spices or herbs specified in a recipe unless you have a specific replacement in mind that can closely mimic the flavor.