Nigella Seed Substitute

Best Nigella seed substitute: All of the best alternatives for Nigella seed when you don't have any at home! This list includes common spices as well as some more uncommon ones. Choose the option that is best suited for your recipe, and then enjoy!

Best Substitutes For Nigella Seed

If you're preparing a delicious recipe and see Nigella seed listed, don't worry! I have some fantastic substitutions for if you don't have any, can't find any at the store, or for any other reason!

Jump to:

• Best Substitutes For Nigella Seed
• What Are Nigella Seeds
• Nigella Seed Names
• What to Use When You Don't Have Nigella Seed
• 1. Celery Seeds
• 2. Black Sesame Seeds
• 3. Fennel Seeds
• 4. Caraway Seeds
• 5. Poppy Seeds
• 6. White Sesame Seeds
• 7. Black Cumin Seeds
• 8. Fenugreek Seeds
• 9. Coriander Seeds
• 10. Oregano
• Tips For Choosing The Best Nigella Seed Substitute
• 📖 More Cooking Substitutions
• 📖 Recipe Card
• 💬 Reviews

What Are Nigella Seeds

Nigella seeds are the small, teardrop-shaped black seeds from the Nigella sativa plant. The flavor can range from bitter to nutty and easily resembles a combination of oregano and black pepper.

They are most commonly used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisines, and they have a crunchy texture. They are used in both sweet and savory dishes

Nigella Seed Names

Nigella seeds (or Kalonji) are called by many different names (some of which you may have heard of!) While many of these names are misnomers that have nothing to do with the actual origin of the seeds themselves, they are commonly used.

What to Use When You Don't Have Nigella Seed

1. Celery Seeds

Celery seeds are a great substitute for Nigella as they have a similar flavor with a similar level of pungency. However, they are slightly more bitter. You can neutralize the flavor by pairing it with garlic, onion, lemon juice, or soy sauce.

Use celery seeds as a 1:1 replacement for Nigella seeds in savory dishes.

2. Black Sesame Seeds

Black sesame seeds are the most similar in terms of appearance as they are commonly mistaken for them! These are crunchier and more flavorful than white sesame seeds and easily replicate the nutty flavor of Nigella seeds.

Use black sesame seeds as a 1:1 replacement for Nigella seeds in savory dishes or as a topping for bread.

3. Fennel Seeds

Fennel seeds have a nutty and licorice-type flavor that makes them a great substitute for Nigella seeds. You can use them for cooking or baking, but if you want to maximize their flavor then you can toast them first.

Use only half as much fennel seeds as Nigella seeds, as they have a stronger flavor.

4. Caraway Seeds

Caraway seeds are a versatile ingredient with a peppery flavor that is common in Middle Eastern dishes. They have a flavor profile that is very similar to Nigella seeds and can be used in cooking, baking, sauces, soups, and more.

Use caraway seeds as a 1:1 replacement for Nigella seeds.

5. Poppy Seeds

Poppy seeds are small, kidney-shaped, black seeds that have a distinctly earthy flavor. However, they are not as potent as Nigella seeds.

I don't recommend using poppy seeds in savory dishes like soups, stews, or curry, as they clump together when liquid is added. They do make a fantastic crunchy choice for topping bread and even can be used in some baked goods (but the flavor won't be exactly the same).

Use poppy seeds as a 1:1 replacement for Nigella seeds as a bread topping or in some baked goods.

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6. White Sesame Seeds

These popular, small white seeds have a similar flavor to Nigella seeds (nutty and sweet). To really emphasize the flavor, I recommend roasting them first.

These versatile seeds can be used in both sweet and savory dishes and can be cooked or baked.

Use white sesame seeds as a replacement for Nigella seeds in a 1:1 exchange.

7. Black Cumin Seeds

Black cumin seeds are popular in European and Asian recipes, but they do have a very strong flavor. You can use them to replace Nigella seeds in baking or cooking, but use them very sparingly.

Start with a small amount of black cumin seeds and adjust as needed.

8. Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek seeds are nutty and slightly sweet and are a staple in Indian cuisine. Their raw flavor can come off as bitter, so roast them first (and even grind them into a powder if you like) for the best results.

Use only half the amount of Fenugreek seeds for Nigella seeds in savory recipes.

9. Coriander Seeds

Whole coriander seeds are citrusy with a subtle sweetness, while the ground version releases a nutty flavor. You can use these to replace Nigella seeds in savory recipes, being particularly delicious in dishes such as curry or soup.

Use coriander seeds as a 1:1 replacement for Nigella seeds.

10. Oregano

While oregano may look like the odd one on this list, it is actually the best option for replicating the flavor of Nigella seeds! In fact, the flavor of Nigella seed is usually compared to a mixture of oregano and black pepper.

I recommend using dried oregano as a replacement. You can use it by itself or add a small amount of ground black pepper to really make it almost a perfect match!

Swap dried oregano for Nigella seeds in a 1:1 exchange.

Tips For Choosing The Best Nigella Seed Substitute

Selecting the right substitute for nigella seeds depends on the flavors and textures you're aiming for in your dish. Here are some tips to help you out!

1. Texture: If you are wanting a similar crunchiness, then poppy seeds or sesame seeds will be a great option.
2. Color: If you need the contrast of the black color of Nigella seeds, choose poppy seeds or black sesame seeds.
3. Flavor: If you are aiming for the most accurate flavor, then use oregano and black pepper.
4. Consider the Dish: Think about the dish as a whole. Some substitutes may work better in specific recipes than others.
5. Start with Small Amounts: When substituting, begin with a small amount and taste as you go to avoid over-seasoning.

These are the best options for swapping out Nigella seeds! Which one are you going to use? Leave a comment and let me know!

📖 More Cooking Substitutions

Cooking Substitutes
Apple Cider Vinegar	Marsala Wine	Dijon Mustard
Sesame Oil	Horseradish	Red Wine Vinegar
Masa Harina	Cream Cheese	Creme Fraiche
Worcestershire Sauce	Peanut Substitute	Pecan Substitute
Au Jus	Cremini Mushroom	Ancho Chile
Poblano Pepper	Celery	Yogurt
Browning Sauce	Parmesan Cheese	Green Onion
Green Chiles	Beef Broth	Shaoxing Wine
Tamarind	Miso Paste	Ricotta Cheese
Sherry Vinegar	Cream of Chicken	Cream of Mushroom
Mirin	Tomato Sauce	Balsamic Vinegar
Mascarpone Cheese	Lard	Breadcrumb
Butter	Rice Vinegar	Gruyere Cheese
Soy Sauce	Vegetable Oil	Tahini
Tomato Paste	Oyster Sauce	White Wine Vinegar
Chicken Broth	Sour Cream	Fish Sauce
Shallots	Mushroom	Cottage Cheese
Coriander Root

📖 Recipe Card