Substitutes for Nigella Seed

Nigella seeds are the oldest spices, yet they are not often used today. These are small black seeds with a somewhat bitter flavor that resembles onions. They are also known as black onion seed, black cumin, and Kalo jeera.

Nigella seeds can be used in curries and other Indian-style meals. However, the typical technique to utilize nigella seeds is to sprinkle them on naan bread, a Middle Eastern flatbread. They also add flavor and zing to veggies, fries, salads, and savory scones.

Another reason to have nigella seeds in your cupboard is that they offer several health advantages. They decrease cholesterol, protect the liver, and aid in managing blood sugar levels. It is also straightforward to incorporate into any diet or regimen.

Because nigella seeds have such a distinct flavor, you may believe nothing can be used to replace them. However, there are other alternatives to using nigella seeds.

This post is for you to understand more about these replacements.

Nigella Seed Substitutes

1. Black sesame seeds

Black sesame seeds may be the finest substitute for nigella seeds. Both are often used in Middle Eastern cuisine, and you can swap them without noticing much of a difference.

When you use black sesame seeds instead of nigella seeds, your dish will not only look the same, but it will also have the same spicy and nutty flavor.

It’s an excellent topping for naan bread, but it works nicely in prepared foods. Add the same amount of black sesame seeds as you used for the nigella seeds in your recipe.

2. White sesame seeds

If you can’t get black sesame seeds in your region, you might use white sesame seeds for the nigella seeds. White sesame seeds have a flavor that is extremely similar to nigella seeds.

However, as the name says, they are white. Of course, if you care more about your stomach than your eyes, this won’t be an issue.

White sesame seeds can be sprinkled on cooked meals, bread, or burger buns. Again, use the same amount of nigella seeds specified in the recipe.

3. Celery seeds

Celery seeds are spices made from wild celery seeds. In many circumstances, you may substitute celery seeds for nigella seeds in recipes that call for nigella seeds. On the other hand, celery seeds have a slightly bitter flavor than nigella seeds.

I have a suggestion if you want the taste to be similar. Combine celery seeds, onion powder, and lemon juice. This will give your celery seeds the flavor of nigella seeds.

4. Cumin seeds

Cumin seeds are not the same as black cumin seeds.

Black cumin is another name for nigella seeds from the Nigella Sativa plant. Cumin seeds come from different plants. They’re distinct, yet they taste so close that you can swap them.

Cumin seeds can be used in nigella seeds on bread, bagels, and buns. Instead of nigella seeds, you may top them with the same quantity of cumin seeds.

5. Cumin powder

Cumin powder is prepared by grinding dry roasted cumin seeds. As a result, cumin powder, like cumin seeds, is an excellent substitute for nigella seeds.

While cumin seeds were excellent on top of toast, cumin powder is best used in warm foods.

It may be used in various cuisines such as curries and vegetable soups, but it is also an excellent component to produce some dipping sauce.

6. Oregano

Don’t worry if you’re unfamiliar with Middle Eastern cuisine and don’t have any above items. In many cuisines, oregano can be used instead of nigella seeds.

Because oregano has a similar scent to nigella seeds, it is a beautiful substitute for prepared and baked meals. And the most significant part is that oregano is widely available.

7. Onion

Using onion instead of nigella seeds may seem strange at first, but bear with me as I explain. I noted before that the flavor of onion might remind us of nigella seeds.

As a result, substitute onion if you don’t have nigella seeds but still want the taste in your meal. To extract the juice from the onion, grate or puree it first and add it to your favorite warm meals or salads.

8. Caraway seeds

Caraway seeds have an earthy taste with a citrus and pepper undertone. It’s not that different from nigella seeds, so feel free to use it in place of them.

It’s very delicious on top of baked dishes. Just a tiny tip: it’s excellent with rye bread. Caraway seeds complement roasted potatoes, tomato-based sauces, and even baked apples.

9. Fennel seeds

The dried seeds of the fennel herb are known as fennel seeds, which are similar to cumin seeds. They are, nevertheless, more environmentally friendly. They can also be a decent substitute for nigella seeds.

Fennel seeds can be used for homemade rye bread, curries, or baked veggies. To improve the flavor, toast them before using them. Fennel seeds, on the other hand, have a stronger flavor. As a result, use half the quantity of nigella seed as a replacement.

Related Issues

Can I replace fenugreek seeds for nigella seeds?

You certainly can. However, it is fairly robust, just like fennel seeds, so use just half the amount.

Can I replace poppy seeds for nigella seeds?

Yes, provided you don’t mind the taste being drastically different. It’s delicious on top of toast, but it’s not a decent alternative for curries or other hot foods.

Is it possible to consume raw nigella seeds?

You certainly can. You can obtain more nutrients from nigella seeds if you consume them uncooked.