When it comes to nigella seeds, there are a few substitutes that will work in a pinch.
However, not all substitutes have the same flavor profile.
In this article, we’ll look at nine different substitutes and highlight which one would work best for your needs.
Are you ready to find your perfect nigella seeds substitute?
Let’s get started!
Nigella Seeds Substitutes
- Fennel Seeds
- Caraway Seeds
- Onion
- Oregano
- Cumin Powder
- Cumin Seeds
- Celery Seeds
- White Sesame Seeds
- Black Sesame Seeds
Fennel Seeds
Fennel seeds can be used in place of nigella seeds since they have a similar flavor and may be used in the same dishes.
This is a good option when making curries, baked vegetables, and rye bread.
Toast the fennel seeds before using them in your recipe to bring out their flavor.
Keep in mind that fennel seeds have a stronger taste than nigella seeds, so you may want to use only half as much.
Caraway Seeds
If you’re looking for a substitute for nigella seeds, caraway seeds are a great option.
They have a similar earthy, citrusy, and peppery flavor. Additionally, they work well in baking recipes.
You can use caraway seeds in any recipe that calls for nigella seeds, including bread, curries, and stir-fries.
When substituting caraway seeds for nigella seeds, use a 1:1 ratio.
Keep in mind that caraway seeds are slightly more pungent than nigella seeds, so they may make your dish slightly more flavorful.
However, overall, caraway seeds make an excellent substitute for nigella seeds in any recipe.
Onion
Substituting with onion might seem like a strange choice, but it can work pretty well.
All you need to do is grate or blend the onion until the juices come out.
The grated or blended onion can then be used in place of nigella seeds, either as a seasoning or as a decoration.
While the taste of onion may not be quite as strong as that of nigella, it can still remind us of the distinctive flavor of the seeds.
And, let’s be honest, sometimes weird substitutions like this can result in some pretty delicious dishes.
So don’t be afraid to experiment – you may just end up pleasantly surprised.
Oregano
If you’re in a pinch, oregano makes a great substitute for nigella seeds.
This common kitchen herb has a similar aroma to nigella seeds, and it can be used in both cooked and baked dishes.
When you’re looking to minimize trips to the store, oregano is also more readily accessible than nigella seeds, making it a handy alternative.
When substituting oregano for nigella seeds, use 1 tablespoon of oregano for every 1 teaspoon of nigella seeds.
Cumin Powder
If you’re looking for a nigella seed substitute, cumin powder is a good option.
Cumin powder is made of powdered dried roasted cumin seeds and it’s good for warm dishes.
It has a similar flavor to nigella seeds and can be used in the same proportion.
Keep in mind that cumin powder is more potent than nigella seeds, so you may want to start with a lower proportion and adjust to taste.
Cumin powder is also less expensive than nigella seeds, so it’s a good option if you’re on a budget.
Overall, cumin powder is a good substitute for nigella seeds and can be used in many different recipes.
Cumin Seeds
If you’re looking for a substitute for nigella seeds, cumin seeds are a great option. They have a similar flavor profile, with a slightly earthy and nutty taste.
Cumin seeds can be used in many of the same dishes as nigella seeds, including curries, spice blends, and bread.
One benefit of using cumin seeds as a substitute is that they are more widely available than nigella seeds. You can usually find them in the spice aisle of your local grocery store.
Keep in mind that cumin seeds are slightly more pungent than nigella seeds, so you may want to use a little less than called for in the recipe.
Overall, cumin seeds make a great substitute for nigella seeds and can be used in many of the same dishes.
Celery Seeds
Celery seed is a suitable replacement for nigella seeds. It has a similar flavor profile and can be used in the same dishes.
The benefits of using celery seed as a substitute are that it is widely available and has a milder flavor.
Celery seed is suitable to be used in soups, stews, curries, and biryani. When substituting celery seeds for nigella seeds, use a ratio of 1:1.
Celery seed is comparable to other substitutes such as fennel seed and caraway seed.
It may make the dish more flavorful if used in larger quantities. When substituting, start with a small amount and add more to taste.
White Sesame Seeds
If you don’t have nigella seeds on hand, white sesame seeds make an excellent substitute.
Like nigella seeds, white sesame seeds have a nutty flavor that pairs well with spices like cumin and turmeric.
In addition, they can be used in the same proportion as nigella seeds, so there’s no need to worry about making adjustments to your recipe.
They are also a good source of calcium and magnesium.
While white sesame seeds won’t give your dish the same black-speckled appearance as nigella seeds, they’ll still provide plenty of flavor and texture.
So next time you’re making an Indian-inspired dish and don’t have nigella seeds on hand, reach for the white sesame seeds instead.
Black Sesame Seeds
If you’re looking for a substitute for nigella seeds, black sesame seeds are a great option.
They can be used in many of the same ways as nigella seeds, and they offer some distinct benefits.
For one thing, black sesame seeds are higher in calcium than nigella seeds. They’re also a good source of iron and magnesium.
Additionally, black sesame seeds have a more distinct flavor than nigella seeds. This can be a positive or negative depending on your taste, but it’s worth considering if you’re looking for something with a little more punch.
When substituting black sesame seeds for nigella seeds, use them at a 1:1 ratio.
You may need to experiment a bit to get the flavor just right, but black sesame seeds are a great way to add a little extra depth to your cooking.
Conclusion
These are only a few of the nigella seed substitutes available to you. With so many options, it’s easy to find one that works for your needs.
Nigella seeds are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different dishes. If you don’t have nigella seeds on hand, try one of these substitutes instead.
Each offers its unique flavor and benefits, so you’re sure to find one that you love.
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We hope this article was helpful.