Looking for a poppy seed substitute for your baking recipes?
You’re not alone!
Poppy seeds may be small, but they pack a flavorful punch. These versatile little seeds are used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes, from delicate pastries to hearty breads.
However, they are just not available sometimes.
Instead of skipping your recipe altogether for whatever reason, why not try one of these poppy seed substitutes?
This article will discuss 12 delicious substitutes for poppy seeds that you can use in your favorite recipes. We’ll explain the differences and similarities between each of the substitutes and provide the ratios you need to use when making a substitution.
Plus, we’ll give you some examples of how to use these substitutes in your own recipes!
Here are 12 delicious poppy seed substitutes that you can use in your baking recipes:
Substitutes for Poppy Seeds:
- Black sesame seeds
- Chia seeds
- Basil seeds
- Hemp seeds
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Flax seeds
- Sunflower seeds
- Amaranth
- Mustard seeds
- Sesame seeds
- Nigella seeds
- Nothing
Black sesame seeds
One of the best substitutes for poppy seeds is black sesame seeds. These seeds have a stronger nutty flavor than poppy seeds, and they work well in both sweet and savory dishes.
Black sesame seeds are a common ingredient in Asian cuisine, so they are easy to find in most grocery stores.
They work well in recipes that call for poppy seeds, and can be used in a one-to-one ratio.
Try using black sesame seeds the next time you make muffins, quick breads, or cookies and you’ll be grateful you did. You can also use them to top cakes or cupcakes for a beautiful garnish.
Chia seeds
Chia seeds are small, black seeds that come from the Salvia hispanica plant. They have a nutty flavor and a slightly crunchy texture.
These tiny seeds have a milder flavor than poppy seeds, but they can still add a touch of flavor to baked goods and other dishes.
Chia seeds are also loaded with nutrients, making them a healthy option for those looking for a nutritional boost. They are a good source of protein and fiber, and contain a host of other nutrients including calcium, magnesium, and iron.
When Substituting chia seeds for poppy seeds, use a one-to-one ratio. These seeds can be used in many of the same ways as poppy seeds, and work well in baked goods, on top of cakes or cupcakes, and as a garnish for other dishes.
When used as a substitute for poppy seeds, chia seeds provide similar nutritional benefits and a similar appearance.
However, due to their high absorbency, they will need to be soaked in water before use. This will help to soften the seeds and prevent them from drying out your baked goods.
Basil seeds
Basil seeds are a great substitute for poppy seeds. They have a similar shape and a crunchy texture. They also have a mild floral taste that goes well with many dishes.
They can be used to season chicken, fish, and vegetables. You can also add them to soups and stews. Basil seeds can also be used in baking. They add a nice crunch to cookies and cakes.
Did you even know that they can be used to make drinks. You can add them to iced tea or lemonade. You can also grind them up and add them to smoothies. Basil seeds are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different dishes.
Hemp seeds
Hemp seeds have a similar flavor profile to poppy seeds, but they are stronger and darker in flavor. They can be used in savory dishes, salad toppings, and baking recipes.
These seeds are a good source of protein and essential fatty acids. They are also high in fiber, magnesium, and iron. Hemp seeds have many health benefits, including: reducing inflammation, improving heart health, and boosting cognitive function.
They are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different recipes. When substituting hemp seeds for poppy seeds, use the same amount of hemp seeds as you would poppy seeds.
Toasted sesame seeds
Toasted sesame seeds have a close resemblance in appearance and produce similar results when used in baking.
Toasting the seeds enhances their crunchiness and brings out their nutty aroma, making them an ideal addition to baked goods.
When substituting toasted sesame seeds for poppy seeds, use a ratio of 1:1. Simply add the same amount of toasted sesame seeds as you would poppy seeds to your recipe. You’ll be pleasantly surprised with the results!
Flax seeds
Flax seeds have a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that is similar to poppy seeds, but have a dissimilar appearance.
They are very healthy; being high in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. They are also a good source of protein.
Flax seeds can be used in baking, as a thickener for soups and sauces, or added to smoothies. They can also be ground into flour.
Flaxseed flour is gluten-free and can be used to make cakes, cookies, and breads. Flaxseed meal can also be used as a substitute for bread crumbs.
Sunflower seeds
Sunflower seeds have a mild nutty flavor that is similar to poppy seeds. They are also a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
They can be used in baking or as a garnish for salads and other dishes. When substituting sunflower seeds for poppy seeds, use the same amount of sunflower seeds as you would poppy seeds.
You can also grind sunflower seeds into flour and use it as a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour.
Sunflower seed flour can be used to make breads, cookies, and cakes. It is also a good thickener for soups and sauces.
Amaranth
Amaranth is a healthy and nutritious grain that can be used in many ways as a substitute for poppy seeds.
It is high in fiber and protein, and has a nutty and crunchy texture that adds interest to any dish.
You can use amaranth in place of poppy seeds in bread, pastries, and even salads. It is also a healthy alternative to rice or pasta.
When cooked, amaranth expands to three times its original size, so it is important to use it sparingly.
It is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, and it is a good choice for those who are looking for a healthy alternative to poppy seeds.
Mustard seeds
Mustard seeds are small and round, with a color that ranges from yellow to white. They have a similar taste to poppy seeds, making them a good choice for use in salads and other dishes where poppy seeds are typically used.
They also have a number of benefits. They are high in antioxidants and minerals, and they have been shown to help lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
Although mustard seeds have a similar taste to poppy seeds, they are more pungent. Yet they can be used in salads, veggies, and meats.
Mustard seeds are a good source of vitamins A, C, and E. They can help to improve digestion and can also help to lower cholesterol levels.
Sesame seeds
Sesame seeds can be used as a substitute for poppy seeds in many recipes. The two have a similar texture, so sesame seeds can be used in the same way as poppy seeds.
The main difference is that sesame seeds are larger, so you may need to use more of them to get the same effect.
Sesame seeds can also be used in savory pastry, so if you’re looking for a poppy seed replacement for savory dishes, sesame seeds are a good option.
When using sesame seeds as a substitute for poppy seeds, it’s important to keep the ratio in mind. For every tablespoon of poppy seeds called for in a recipe, you’ll need to use three tablespoons of sesame seeds.
With a little adjustment, sesame seeds can be a great alternative to poppy seeds in any recipe.
Nigella seeds
Nigella seeds are a common ingredient in Indian cuisine, and they make a great substitute for poppy seeds.
Nigella seeds have a close taste to poppy seeds, making them a good 1:1 replacement. Nigella seeds can be used as a topping for bread or as a savory dish.
They are also known as black cumin, black onion seeds, and kalonji. And can be found in the spice aisle of most grocery stores.
Nigella seeds have benefits including being high in antioxidants and having anti-inflammatory properties. They can also be used as a natural laxative.
When you store nigella seeds in a cool, dry place, they can last up to 2 years when stored properly. Nigella seeds can be ground before use or used whole.
Nothing
Sometimes, less is more. You don’t need to add any substitutes. Just leave the poppy seeds out. This is a great option if you’re looking to reduce your intake of calories or fat.
Or maybe you just don’t like poppy seeds or want to use any substitutes. Either way, it’s totally fine to make a dish without them.
Many recipes don’t require any add-ins like poppy seeds or substitutes, so don’t feel like you need to add them just for the sake of it.
The Bottomline
There are many substitutes for poppy seeds that can be used in baking and cooking. These substitutes include amaranth, mustard seeds, sesame seeds, nigella seeds and others.
Each of these substitutes has its own unique flavor and benefits. Substitutes for poppy seeds can be used to add flavor or texture to a dish, or to make a dish healthier.
Ultimately, the choice of whether or not to use a substitute for poppy seeds is up to you.
We hope this article was helpful. Substitutes for poppy seeds can be found at your local grocery store in the spice aisle. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us!
Thanks for reading!