If you’re looking for a substitute for celery seed, you’ve come to the right place! Celery seed is a popular spice that is used in many dishes. It has a unique flavor that can’t be replicated by any other spice.
However, if you’re unable to find it or simply don’t have any on hand, there are plenty of substitutes that you can use instead. In this blog post, we will discuss 22 different substitutes for celery seed!
Table of Contents
What is celery seed?
Celery seed is an aromatic and flavorful Mediterranean and Asian spice derived from the celery plant. It has a nutty, earthy taste with a hint of pepper, which makes it popular in a variety of dishes across many cultures.
Celery seed is used for both its flavor and its health benefits. In addition to adding flavor to food, it can be used to help treat a variety of ailments.
Celery seed is high in fiber and vitamins A and C, and it is believed to contain anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce joint pain.
It has also been known to improve digestion and reduce the risk of certain cancers. As a result, celery seed is becoming increasingly popular as an ingredient in many dishes.
What does celery seed taste like?
Celery seed has a mild, slightly bitter flavor with earthy and nutty notes. The flavor of celery seed is similar to that of celery stalk and leaves but more intense.
It is often used as a seasoning or flavoring in dishes, including soups, stews, curries, salads, and pickles. Celery seed is also commonly used to make a flavorful brine for pickling vegetables.
It pairs well with garlic, onion, and other herbs and spices like thyme, bay leaves, and oregano. When used in moderation, celery seed can add a unique depth of flavor to dishes.
When added too heavily or carelessly however, the bitter notes can overpower the dish. Thus, it should be used sparingly and with caution.
When stored properly in an airtight container away from light and heat, celery seed can last up to two years.
Substitutes for Celery Seed.
If you don’t have access to celery seed for your recipe, there are some good substitutes that you can use.
1. Black Pepper.
Black pepper is a great substitute for celery seed in many recipes. It has a slightly different flavor, but it can be used to achieve similar results.
For example, you can use black pepper in place of celery seed when making dishes such as coleslaw or potato salad. Just make sure to adjust the amount of salt and other seasoning accordingly.
2. Capsaicin.
Capsaicin is a spicy compound found in chili peppers that can be used as a substitute for celery seed.
It has the same intense flavor and aroma, so it makes a good alternative when you don’t have access to celery seed.
However, capsaicin is much spicier than celery seed, so keep in mind that you’ll need to use much less of it when substituting in recipes.
3. Caraway Seed.
Caraway seed is a delicious and aromatic spice that can be used as a substitute for celery seed. It has a strong, distinctive flavor with earthy notes and accents of aniseed.
Caraway seeds are usually sold whole, but they can also be ground into a fine powder if desired. Use one teaspoon of caraway seeds as a substitute for one teaspoon of celery seed.
Caraway seeds are a great addition to salads, soups, and vegetable dishes. They can also be used to add flavor to breads, cakes, and pastries.
4. Celeriac Seed (Celery Root).
Celeriac seed, also known as celery root, is a great alternative to regular celery seed. It has an earthy, slightly sweet taste and is a great addition to soups and stews.
5. Celery Leaves and Stalks.
While they may not have the same flavor as celery seed, celery leaves and stalks can be used if you’re in a pinch. Use them as you would use celery seed — chopped finely and added to soups, sauces, and salads.
6. Celery Salt.
Celery salt is a combination of ground up celery seed and regular table salt. It is used to add flavor to a variety of dishes, especially in the seasoning of salads and meat.
7. Coriander seed.
This popular spice is closely related to celery and has a similar flavor. It is usually used in ground form, and can be found in most grocery stores.
8. Dandelion.
Dandelion greens are a great substitute for celery seed. The dandelion leaves contain the same flavor compounds that you would find in celery, so they can provide that distinctive taste to dishes.
You can sprinkle some dried and ground dandelion leaves over salads or other dishes to get a similar flavor as celery seed.
9. Dill Seed.
Dill seed has a similar flavor to celery seed, but is slightly milder. It can be used as a one-to-one substitute for celery seed in most recipes.
10. Dried celery flakes.
The flavor is not as strong as that of celery seed, but the flakes are easier to work with and have a longer shelf life. They can be used in most recipes that call for celery seed.
11. Fennel Seed.
Fennel seed is an excellent substitute for celery seed and carries a similar flavor. It can be used as a one-to-one swap in most recipes, though you may need to adjust the quantity slightly depending on the recipe.
Fennel has even been shown to have some medicinal properties, with studies showing that it helps reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and even helps with weight loss.
To use fennel seed as a substitute for celery seed, add it early in the cooking process to allow time for its flavors to be released.
12. Fenugreek seed.
This is a popular substitute for celery seed known for its nutty flavor. Fenugreek has some of the same aroma and flavor notes as celery, making it a good choice for recipes that call for celery seed.
13. Feverfew Seed.
Feverfew is a flowering plant that is native to the Balkan Peninsula, though it can be found throughout Europe and North America. It has many medicinal properties, including being an anti-inflammatory agent, antispasmodic, and expectorant.
For this reason, feverfew seed can make a great substitute for celery seed; it has many of the same qualities, as well as its own unique benefits. Feverfew is said to help with headaches, arthritis pain, and menstrual cramps.
It can also be used in cooking; it has a slightly bitter flavor that pairs well with salads and other dishes. Additionally, feverfew seed can be used in teas or beverages for added flavor and health benefits.
14. Fresh Dill.
This is a great substitute for celery seed and can be used in any recipe calling for celery seed. It has a mild yet flavorful taste that can be easily adjusted to your own tastes.
Fresh dill also provides many of the same health benefits as celery seed, including anti-inflammatory properties and fiber.
15. Garlic.
Garlic has a pungent, spicy flavor and can be used as an alternative for celery seed when cooking. It is widely available in many grocery stores and markets and can be added to dishes to give them a unique flavor.
16. Ginger.
Ginger can be used as a substitute for celery seed, as it has a similar flavor profile. It is especially effective when combined with other spices like cumin and coriander.
17. Hibiscus.
Hibiscus is a flowering plant native to warm regions of the world. It has a slightly tart flavor that makes it an excellent substitute for celery seed.
18. Nigella Sativa.
Commonly known as black seed, this unique plant has been used for centuries in traditional healing systems.
It has numerous health benefits and is considered to be a “cure-all” remedy. Found mostly in the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia, it is now gaining recognition all over the world.
Nigella Sativa contains many compounds that have positive effects on the body. It is believed to be a powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immune system booster.
It has been shown to help reduce inflammation in the lungs, improve digestion and circulation, lower blood sugar levels and cholesterol, protect against arthritis and cancer, reduce symptoms of asthma and allergies, boost energy levels and even aid in weight loss.
Nigella Sativa can be taken in the form of a capsule, powder or tea. It is also used as an ingredient in many dishes and sauces. There are few side effects associated with taking it and it has very low toxicity levels, making it safe for most people to consume.
19. Panch Puran.
is an ancient Indian blend of five spices, originating from the Indian Subcontinent. This mix of spices is used in a variety of dishes, ranging from traditional curries to tandoori style breads and sauces.
The ingredients vary slightly depending on region and culture, but they typically consist of cumin, coriander, fenugreek seed, mustard and turmeric.
These spices are said to balance out flavors in a dish and bring out the best of the ingredients. Panch Puran is used not only for its flavor but also for its health benefits.
The spices have long been known to aid digestion, reduce inflammation and help fight free radicals that can damage cells.
In addition to this, they can help to boost the immune system and even lower cholesterol. Panch Puran is an essential part of Indian cuisine and has been used for centuries by those looking to enjoy a flavorful meal with plenty of health benefits.
With its unique blend of spices, it’s the perfect way to add flavor and nutrition to any dish.
20. Parsley.
A simple but versatile herb, it adds flavor and a bright green hue to dishes. But there’s more to parsley than just its culinary uses – the leaves of this herb contain vitamins A and C as well as iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus.
It also has antioxidant properties which can help protect your body from free radicals that can damage cells. In addition to being a great source of nutrition, parsley has long been used for medicinal purposes.
It can be made into teas and tinctures which are said to have diuretic and antiseptic properties, as well as helping to reduce inflammation. Parsley has also been used in traditional medicine for centuries to help treat digestive disorders, respiratory infections, joint pain and skin conditions.
As modern science continues to study its health benefits, it seems that parsley is a great way to get more vitamins and minerals into your diet in an easy and delicious way. Try adding it to salads or incorporating it into everyday dishes!
21. Star Anise.
Star anise is an aromatic, star-shaped spice used in Asian cooking and baking. It is a key ingredient in Chinese five-spice powder and often used to flavor soups, stews, curries, and meat dishes.
Star Anise has a sweet licorice-like flavor that enhances the taste of many savory dishes. It is often used to make a flavorful tea or syrup and can be added to desserts as well.
The pods of star anise are also dried and ground into a powder that can be used in baking, broths, sauces, curries, soups, or stews. It is also commonly found in Indian garam masala spice blends.
The pods of star anise are also used to make extracts, essential oils, and infusions. These can be used in baking or as a natural flavoring for teas and beverages.
In traditional Chinese medicine, star anise is believed to help with digestion and respiratory issues. It is also thought to boost the immune system and help fight bacteria and viruses.
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22. Turmeric.
Turmeric is a great alternative for celery seed. It’s not only a flavorful spice that can add depth to dishes, but it also has many health benefits.
It’s not just a spice, it has many medicinal qualities. Turmeric contains compounds known as curcuminoids, which contain powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-bacterial properties. This makes turmeric an ideal ingredient in natural remedies for many common ailments.
Turmeric is believed to help reduce inflammation of the joints and muscles, improve digestion, and reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.
Studies have also found that turmeric may help with pain relief from rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and other inflammatory conditions. Additionally, some studies suggest that turmeric can be beneficial for treating depression and anxiety.
Turmeric has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, and is even mentioned in ancient Hindu texts. In recent years, its popularity as a health supplement has skyrocketed. Many people now turn to turmeric to help with digestive issues, skin problems, and overall wellness.
Substitute for celery seed in canning.
Celery seed is a common ingredient in many canning recipes. Unfortunately, if you don’t have celery seed or find it unavailable, there are some substitutes that work just as well.
One of the most common substitutes for celery seed is celery flakes. Celery flakes are made from dehydrated celery and have a similar flavor to celery seed, just not as concentrated. To substitute celery flakes for celery seeds in canning recipes, use the same measurements of celery flakes as you would celery seed.
Another great substitution is caraway seeds. Caraway seeds have a similar flavor to celery seed and are often used interchangeably in recipes. When substituting caraway seeds for celery seed, use half the amount of caraway seeds as you would celery seed.
Finally, dill weed is a great alternative to celery seed in canning recipes. Dill weed has a stronger flavor than celery seed, so substitute only one teaspoon of dill weed for every tablespoon of celery seed.
Substitute for celery seed in relish.
If you want to make a relish without celery seed, there are plenty of alternatives that will still give your dish that unique flavor. You could try caraway seeds, anise seeds, or dill weed for a similar taste.
If you’re looking for something with a bit more heat, try mustard seed or cumin. For some sweetness, try fennel seed, coriander, or even a pinch of nutmeg. No matter what you choose, it’s sure to bring a unique flavor to your relish!
Just be sure to adjust the amount of the substitute according to how much celery seed the recipe calls for. Too much can make the dish overpowering. And remember to taste as you go, making sure your relish is just the way you like it!
Substitute for celery seed in coleslaw.
Parsley, dill weed, and onion powder are three common substitutes for celery seed in coleslaw recipes. Parsley adds a fresh flavor to the dish and has a milder taste than celery seed. Dill weed also gives a light, herbal flavor to the dish.
Onion powder can provide an intense onion taste that complements other flavors. Additionally, garlic powder or a combination of the three can be used to create an interesting flavor.
When using these substitutes, start with a small amount and increase as desired. Finding the right balance of flavor is key for a delicious coleslaw dish!
For those looking to avoid herbs altogether, nuts and other ingredients such as celery, carrots, and bell peppers can be used for added texture.
Cashews, almonds and sunflower seeds are all excellent choices as they provide a crunchy texture to the dish. Chopped celery adds flavor without overpowering the dish.
Carrots and bell peppers also add a nice crunch while providing sweetness balance the flavors of other ingredients in coleslaw.
Substitute for celery seed in potato salad.
Celery seed is a common ingredient in potato salad, but it can easily be replaced with other flavorful ingredients. If you’re looking for a similar crunchy texture and savory flavor, try dill seeds or caraway seeds as an alternative to celery seed. They both have a slightly earthy taste that will bring some depth of flavor to your potato salad.
If you’re looking for more of a pungent and assertive flavor, try adding some capers or pickles instead. These provide an intense and salty flavor that is sure to liven up the dish. Another great option would be to add some fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or chives for a bright, herbal note.
Substitute for celery seed in salad dressing.
A great alternative to celery seed in salad dressing is caraway seed. Caraway has a similar flavor profile to celery, with a hint of anise or licorice. It can be found in the spice section of most grocery stores and can be used as a one-to-one replacement for celery seed in any recipe.
For a more subtle flavor, consider using fennel or cumin seed instead. Fennel has a mild licorice-like flavor that is similar to celery but much more delicate. Cumin seed has an earthy, nutty flavor and can add depth to a salad dressing without being overpowering.
Substitute for celery seed in bread.
If you don’t have celery seed, there are several simple substitutes that can be used as a replacement in recipes. Caraway seeds and dill are two of the more common alternatives to celery seed.
Caraway seeds give a nutty flavor which is similar to the taste of celery seed, while dill is often described as a licorice-like flavor.
Another option is to use fennel seeds, which have a subtly sweet and anise-like taste that can make for a great substitute in bread recipes. For those looking for a more savory alternative, dried onion flakes or garlic powder can be used as well.
What does celery seed do in a recipe?
Celery seed adds a unique flavor to recipes, making it a staple in dishes like cole slaw and potato salad. It provides an earthy flavor that is both savory and slightly sweet.
The seeds have antimicrobial properties which can help with digestion as well as adding a pleasant aroma. Celery seed also contains minerals such as potassium, magnesium and calcium.
These minerals can help to lower inflammation in the body as well as aid in digestion. Additionally, celery seed can be used to add texture to food, making it a great addition to stews and salads.
Can I use celery salt instead of celery seed?
The short answer is yes, you can use celery salt instead of celery seed. Celery salt is a combination of ground celery seed and table salt; thus, it has a flavor that is similar to that of celery seed but with the addition of a slightly salty taste.
This makes it ideal for seasoning dishes like salads, soups, and even some types of seafood. However, it should be noted that celery salt is much stronger in taste than celery seed so you may need to adjust the quantities used accordingly.
Additionally, some recipes call for a specific type of celery seed so you will want to ensure you are using the right one if that is your goal. Finally, celery salt has a shorter shelf life than celery seed so it’s best to purchase and use in small batches as needed.
Can I substitute cumin for celery seed?
The short answer is yes, you can substitute cumin for celery seed with some considerations. Cumin has a distinctive and robust flavor that may overpower the dish if too much is used as a substitution for celery seed.
Generally, use half the amount of cumin when substituting for celery seed. Additionally, celery seed has an herbal flavor, which cumin lacks.
If the recipe calls for celery seed to contribute an herbal flavor, consider adding a small amount of dried herbs such as thyme or oregano to mimic this taste. Finally, while both spices are related botanically, they have different nutritional properties.
Can I substitute fennel seed for celery seed?
The answer is yes, you can substitute fennel seed for celery seed in most recipes. Fennel has a mild anise flavor that is very similar to the flavor of celery seed.
However, it does have a slightly sweeter taste than celery seed, so you may want to adjust the amount of sugar or other sweetener you use in your recipe if you are substituting fennel seed for celery seed.
Additionally, since the flavor of fennel is slightly milder than that of celery seed, you may want to consider increasing the quantity of fennel used in order to make up for the difference.
If a recipe calls for one teaspoon of celery seed, for example, you may want to consider using one and a half teaspoons of fennel seed instead.
Conclusion
Celery seed is a versatile and flavorful herb that can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes. However, if you don’t have access to it or are looking for something different, there are several substitutes that can be used in place of celery seed.
Fennel seed and caraway seed both bring the same earthy and herbal flavor, while ginger and parsley can also provide a similar taste. Each of these substitutes may need to be adjusted in quantity to achieve the desired result.
Additionally, celery salt or celery powder are excellent alternatives that bring the same earthy flavor and crunch as celery seed. Ultimately, whichever alternative you choose, it is sure to bring a unique flavor to your dish.
