Top 10 Easy Cumin Substitutes – No.4 is Always in the Kitchen

If you are making an Indian curry and wondering what you can substitute for cumin seeds – well, been there done that.

Over the tremendous years of making Indian and Latin food, I have finally found the 10 best substitutes for Cumin seed.

Whether you are making some spiced chili, aloo tarkari, or a plain old guacamole dip, Cumin is a must-have.

But if not, these 10 cumin replacements work equally best.

Do you know what a good cumin substitute is? What are the best Cumin substitutes, their benefits, and how exactly they can be used in place of Cumin? Let’s find out.

But first, if you find yourself out of Cumin, then you can use the following best Cumin substitutes

• Caraway seeds (½ tsp) + pinch of paprika to replace 1 tsp of Cumin seeds.
• Fennel seeds (½ tsp) for 1 tsp of Cumin seeds. 
• Ground coriander (½ tsp)  + a pinch of cayenne pepper to substitute 1 tsp of Cumin.
• Chili powder (½ tsp)  to replace 1 tsp of cumin powder.

Liked them? Hold on, there is more.

• Ground star anise (½ tsp)  to substitute 1 tsp of ground cumin 
• OR 3 to 4 whole star anise to substitute 1 tsp of cumin seeds
• Curry powder (½ tsp)  to alternate 1 tsp of cumin powder.
• Taco seasoning (½ tsp)  or less to replace 1 tsp of cumin powder.
• Use ½ tsp or less of garam masala to substitute 1 tsp of cumin powder.

Now let’s talk about Cumin first.

What is Cumin?

Cumin is a spice produced from a plant’s dried seed named as Cuminum cyminum. Its origin is South Asia.

It belongs to the parsley family.

Cumin seeds are used in most of the dishes of African, Asian as well as the Latin American region.

They are easily available in the market both in seeds as well as grounded form.

If you don’t find cumin seeds in the market or you ran short of cumin in your pantry then you can go for cumin substitutes.

10 Best Cumin Substitutes For Your Recipes:

Cumin seeds are widely known for their earthy taste and light heat.

It is used in a variety of dishes, mostly in south-east Asia, Africa, the middle east, and Mexico.

While it is used in its whole form, in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

In Mexico, it is used in its ground, powdered form.

Whether it is dukkah – a popular middle eastern spice mix, korma – an Indian chicken curry, tagine – an African meat roast or tacos with baked beans and chili – a Mexican staple, Cumin seeds are a must, as it adds a lot of flavors.

But if you have run out of Cumin then don’t worry because we guarantee the finest collection of cumin seed substitutes, which include:

• caraway seeds
• Fennel seeds
• Coriander seeds
• Chilli powder
• anise seeds
• Curry powder
• Taco seasoning
• Garam masala
• Paprika
• Chipotle Powder

Let’s not waste time and get straight to the cumin substitutes.

1. Caraway Seeds

Caraway seeds have a similar shape and color as cumin seeds.

Both the seeds belong to the parsley family also.

With regard to taste, caraway seeds are bitter than cumin seeds.

However, caraway seeds can be the finest cumin substitute in many dishes.

Are Caraway Seeds Good For Your Health?

Caraway seeds are known for their tremendous healing properties:

• They are known for toning down inflammation. Especially in the gut
• It helps relieve gastric pains, menstrual cramps, and constipation
•  It encourages the growth of good bacteria, which eventually leads to better digestion and overall good health
• Also known for helping in bladder control
• Last but not least, caraway seeds also help in losing weight (1)

Why Have I Chosen Caraway Seeds As An Alternative To Cumin?

They both belong to the same family of parsley, which is the main reason why they taste similar as well as look pretty much the same.

Although Cumin has a bitter after taste, the Caraway has a more lemony endnote.

While the latter is dark brown, Cumin is lighter in color.

But all in all, Caraway seeds can be quite easily used as a cumin substitute, for both whole or powdered forms.

Key Note:

2. Fennel Seeds

Cumin and fennel seeds are not similar in flavor for sure.

In fact, fennel seeds give a somewhat sweeter taste than cumin.

Nevertheless, using fennel seeds as a cumin substitute can work well for many dishes particularly in Italian sausages, meatballs, and dips, etc.

It can also be used in the grounded form in different foods.

Are Fennel Seeds Good For Your Health?

• Great for those who complain of high blood pressure, as it regulates blood pressure
• Aids asthma and other respiratory disorders
• It helps clean the blood impurities
• Cleanses the gut and removes bad bacteria, reducing the risk of bloating, inflammation, and other digestive problems
• Good for relieving constipation
• Last but not least, it improves weak eye-sight (2)

Why Have I Chosen Fennel Seeds As A Cumin Substitute?

Fennel seeds, although they are far in taste from Cumin, they are pretty similar in looks.

Fennel lacks the heat and earthy flavors, usually found in cumin seeds.

Despite the lacking, the fennel makes a good substitute for Cumin when mixed with a pinch of paprika, which helps add some heat.

Although it may not match the exact flavor of Cumin, fennel seeds never look or taste out of place when used in a recipe as a cumin replacement.

Key Note:

3. Coriander Seeds

These seeds and cumin are different in taste and shape.

Coriander seeds impart a slightly sweet taste whereas cumin seeds are known to have nutty and a slightly bitter taste.

However, it can act as a decent cumin substitute in many dishes particularly belonging to Indian cuisines.

These seeds have a particular aroma and a specific flavor which makes the food appealing and delicious.

It is mostly added to soups, gravies, and meat for enhancing the flavor.

Are Coriander Seeds Good For Your Health?

Coriander seeds are not only good but amazing for one’s health.

• Coriander seeds are rich in antioxidants that help facilitate better digestion.
• They provide valuable amounts of calcium and dietary fiber, which again are good for bone health and digestion, respectively.
• Given that it is a rich source of vitamins A and C, it helps fight the common cough and cold.
• It helps lower cholesterol and maintains blood sugar levels, which makes it popular amongst diabetics and high-cholesterol patients.
• It also helps balance the disrupted hormones in women, leading to better track of the monthly cycle.
• Last but not least, it also provides added benefits of better-looking skin and hair growth. (3)

Why Have I Chosen Coriander Seeds As A Substitute For Cumin?

Coriander seeds are pretty different in taste as well as shape when compared together.

However, they belong to the same parsley family.

Hence they both have earthy flavors that enhance the dish’s taste; however, coriander lacks heat.

Also, coriander seeds have a sweet end taste, while the cumin seeds taste a little bitter.

Despite the differences, coriander seeds can be perfectly substituted for Cumin, especially when cooking curry or even burritos.

Key Note:

4. Chili Powder

No doubt, chili powder is extremely different in color and flavor than cumin seeds powder.

In fact, manufacturers use different spices to make chili powder with the inclusion of cumin.

Hence, it can be used as a cumin substitute when you run short of cumin.

Is Chili Powder Good For Your Health?

Before we talk about the benefits of chili powder, it is essential to know that high levels of spice can cause digestive problems such as ulcers and heartburn.

• Good quality chili powder is rich in vitamin A, which aids in better vision and keeps the skin and hair hydrated.
• It also has good amounts of vitamin C, which helps fight infections and improve immunity.
• It is a rich source of iron and copper minerals, which help in the formation of new blood cells that fight anemia.
• Rich in iron, chili powder also increases the flow of blood, which helps relieve symptoms of dementia and Alzheimers.

Why Have I Chosen Chili Powder To Substitute Cumin?

Chili powder is widely available in most grocery stores.

The reason why it goes well as a cumin substitute in most recipes is that it has good amounts of Cumin alongside other spices, namely – cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, etc.

Where chili powder works tremendously when used as a substitute for Cumin in baked beans, chili, or south Asian curries, it is a no go for middle eastern dukkah and pilafs.

As it not only has extra flavors but also adds a bright red hue to the dish, contemplating the entire dish.

Key Note:

5. Anise Seeds

Anise seeds can also be used as a cumin substitute.

They are rich in nutrients just like cumin, however, have a totally different taste.

Sprinkling a minute amount of anise seeds can enhance the flavor and aroma of your dishes very well.

Is Star Anise Good For Your Health?

• Rich in antioxidants, star anise helps fight the free radicals in our body, warding off chronic ailments.
• It has antibacterial as well as anti-fungal properties, which means it can fight common infections such as throat infection, urinary infection, etc. as well as fungal infections such as yeast infection and more serious athlete’s foot.
• It helps maintain better heart health and keeps the blood sugar levels in check.

Why Have I Chosen Star Anise As A Cumin Alternative?

Star anise is a good cumin alternative when it comes to cooking Indian and middle eastern cuisines as it adds tons of flavor and scent that go well with such dishes.

It looks and tastes entirely different than cumin seeds.

But when used in its ground form, star anise works pretty well.

However, it may not adapt well to Mexican recipes that require less scent but more heat.

Key Note:

6. Curry Powder:

Usually, curry powder is inclusive of cinnamon, coriander, ginger, turmeric, and fenugreek seed, mustard as well as black pepper.

A blend of these exquisite ingredients provides an earthy flavor to the dish in which they are added and can be used as a substitute for cumin easily.

Also read: What is Demerara Sugar? [Explained]

Is Curry Powder Good For Your Health?

Curry powder is a mix of several spices, which together have tremendous benefits on one’s health.

• From fighting serious ailments such as cancer and liver toxicity.
• Its antibacterial properties help fight infections.
• Its anti-inflammatory properties help relieve pain and inflammation.
• It also helps improve bone health.

Why Have I Chosen Curry Powder As An Alternative For Cumin?

The blend of these 6 to 7 earthy spices makes a flavorful cumin alternative that can be used in most recipes, if not all.

This ready to use blend can be made at home, using this easy recipe, or bought from any local spice store.

Most stores now store this blend; you’ll most probably find it kept near the taco seasonings.

Key Note:

7. Taco seasoning:

As the name suggests, taco seasoning is a Mexican staple.

It goes well with every Mexican dish you make.

In fact, a tsp of taco seasoning in any Mexican dish helps enhance the overall flavors.

Similarly, taco seasoning can also make an amazing substitute for cumin seeds.

Taco seasoning usually contains – chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, ground coriander, kosher salt, and ground cumin.

Is Taco Seasoning Good For Your Health?

There are no particular health benefits for store-bought taco seasoning though it has a high salt content and may be troublesome for those suffering from high blood pressure.

Why Have I Chosen Taco Seasoning As A Cumin Substitute?

Taco seasoning is pretty much like chili powder or curry powder.

Although it adds some extra flavor, it is the best substitute for Cumin when preparing a Mexican dish.

It works well in Indian cuisines too, although you would want to keep track of the salt content, as store-bought taco seasoning has high amounts of salt.

Key Note:

8. Garam Masala:

The literal meaning of the word Garam Masala is ‘hot spice mix.’

It is a staple in subcontinental households and is used in almost every dish.

As the name suggests, it is made up of a variety of spices, which include fennel seeds, cloves, black and white peppercorns, green cardamom, black cardamom, nutmeg, coriander, cinnamon, mace, and Cumin.

Is Garam Masala Good For Your Health?

This five-spice blend is a powerhouse of health benefits.

• Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids.
• It aids in better digestion and boosts up the metabolism.
• Rids the body of excessive bloating and other stomach ailments.
• It helps fight nausea and keeps the gut feeling healthy.
• Last but not least, it also helps fight bad breath and ulcers.

Why Have I Chosen Garam Masala As A Substitute For Cumin?

Like curry powder, garam masala is also a blend of spices, usually five or more.

The spices in this blend include earthy flavors and scents which best replicate cumin in any given recipe.

The blend of spices together has everything that substitutes cumin well – heat, flavor, and the raw, earthy scent.

It is easily available in most stores.

If not found at your local store, look for an Indian or Asian store, and you will surely find it.

Key Note:

9. Paprika:

Paprika is made using a sweet red variety of bell peppers.

Paprika has little to no heat and has a slight sweetness.

The pepper is mostly added for garnish and to add some color to the cooked food.

It makes a good cumin substitute when heated, as it gives off a slightly bitter and earthy flavor when cooked.

Is Paprika Good For Your Health?

There are tremendous benefits of paprika:

• Capsaicin, present in paprika, contains anti-inflammatory properties, which help heal inflammation and reduce pain.
• Research shows that paprika is also known for increasing the production of HDL in the body, which fights bad cholesterol and results in good heart health.
• Studies also show that paprika helps lower blood sugar levels in the body, which makes it a superfood for people with diabetes.
• Paprika also has a variety of antioxidants that help fight the free radicals which are known for causing chronic illnesses.
• Rich in vitamin A and E, which are known for strengthening eyesight, blood cells, and even skin!

Why Have I Chosen Paprika As A Substitute For Cumin?

Paprika makes a good substitute for Cumin in most cuisines as it adds the right amount of smokiness without being too overpowering.

Although paprika has less heat than cumin, it makes a good substitute for mild heat dishes.

But in case more heat is required, add some red pepper along with paprika to make up for the rest of the heat.

Key Note:

10. Chipotle Powder:

Chipotle powder is made up of dried jalapeno peppers.

Unlike chili powder, it has no added seasoning, which makes it hard to believe that it can substitute for cumin.

However, the truth is it makes an amazing cumin substitute that can be used in most cuisines, including Indian and Mexican.

The chipotle powder has a distinct heat as well as the right earthiness and smokiness, which it gets when dried.

Is Chipotle Powder Good For Your Health?

Like other peppers, the chipotle powder also has the added health benefits of jalapenos peppers.

• Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Its blood sugar controlling properties make it an ideal spice for people with diabetes.
• It also reduces the risk of heart diseases as it cuts down the bad cholesterol.
• Capsaicin in the peppers also widens blood vessels, helping fight high blood pressure.

Why Have I Chosen Chipotle Powder As A Substitute For Cumin?

Chipotle powder is made by smoke drying jalapeños peppers and then grounding them.

The drying and smoking procedure adds the right amount of smokiness to which makes it a good substitute for cumin.

Although jalapeno peppers have more heat than regular chili, hence caution is advised when a recipe calls for little or no heat.

Key Note:

Uses of Cumin

Cumin seed can do wonders for your health in many different ways.

• Aids in the digestion:

It is also regarded as a traditional medicinal herb as it can cure infections as well as help in digestion.

It aids in increased bile release from the liver, which is used for the digestion of fat and some other useful nutrients. In this way, it speeds up the digestion of fat.

• Abundant in Iron:

Cumin seed contains an ample amount of iron, hence, it is an excellent source of iron.

Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin as well as for the immune system.

Moreover, females need an adequate amount of iron as they lose it every month because of menstruation.

• Anti-carcinogenic effects:

These seeds may act as an anti-carcinogenic element, thus, aiding in cancer prevention.

It is so because these seeds contain Vitamin A and C.

Both these vitamins are known to act as anti-carcinogenic agents.

In addition, Vitamin A is found to treat many different types of cancer also.

• Helps in Diabetes:

Several studies found that cumin is helpful for people with diabetes as it lowers the blood glucose level.

Adding one teaspoon of cumin to your daily diet can be beneficial for lowering your blood glucose levels.

You can add it to your dishes while cooking or can use it as seasoning also.

Hence, it can be used as an anti-diabetic agent.

•   Helps in Weight loss:

Several studies showed that cumin seed can help in weight loss.

Soaking one teaspoon of cumin seeds overnight in water and drinking it in the morning before breakfast is recommended.

You can also add one tsp of cumin to boiling water for getting a similar effect.

Drinking this water thrice a day is advisable for weight loss.

•   Anti-aging Properties:

This spice also contains vitamin E which is beneficial for the skin.

Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and strengthens the skin’s capillary walls.

Furthermore, it increases elasticity and moisture by working as a natural anti-aging nutrient.

Vitamin E also lessens inflammation in the body.

Cumin Substitute In Recipes:

You can use cumin substitutes in many recipes to have a similar effect or to enhance the flavor of the food.

Here are some of the dishes in which you can use cumin substitutes without any doubt.

Cumin-Carrot Soup:

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 ½ cups vegetable broth
• Two garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
• ½ tsp sea salt
• ¼ tsp ground coriander
• A pinch of black pepper (Freshly ground)
• 2 ½ cups large carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• ½ tsp ground cumin OR ¼ tsp ground caraway
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice

Procedure:

• Take a large saucepan and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Saute the onion in it for 2 minutes.
• Add the garlic and saute for one more minute.
• Add the coriander, broth, carrots, caraway, pepper, and Boil it.
• Lower the heat, keep a lid over, and simmer until tenderness of the carrots achieved. It will take around 15 minutes.
• Make a puree of the soup with an immersion blender or in a food processor until it becomes smooth.
• Pour it again into the saucepan. Add the yogurt and lemon juice and mix it well.
• Add seasonings as per your taste. Dish it out and enjoy the yummy soup.

Creamy Corn Soup

Serves: 8

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 1 ½ lb. frozen corn, defrosted and drained
• One large onion (diced)
• 1 tbsp. butter
• 1 pinch sugar
• 3 large garlic cloves (sliced)
• 2 tsp ground cumin OR 1 tsp ground caraway
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
• 3 cups chicken broth
• ¼ cup fresh coriander leaves
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• Seasonings (Salt and freshly ground black pepper)

Procedure:

• Take a saucepan and heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
• Put frozen corn and onion and sauté. Stir it little by little until vegetables turn golden brown.
• Lower the flame and add garlic, butter, and Cook it until the color of all vegetables turn caramel.
• Add caraway and cayenne pepper. Sauté it until you feel the aroma.
• Put the broth in it; cook it on moderate to high heat until it bubbles. Lower the heat to low and bubble, half-covered, until vegetables become softer.
• Add coriander leaves. Puree it to about 1 minute by using a traditional or immersion blender.
• Use a sieve to strain it.
• Pour it back into the pan; add whole milk for making a soup-like mixture.
• Add seasonings as per your desire. Heat completely, dish it out, garnish and serve warm.

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Italian Tomato Sauce:

ingredients:

• ¼ cup pure olive oil
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 lbs. large tomatoes—peeled, seeded as well as chopped
• 2 tsp ground cumin OR 2 tsp ground fennel
• Salt to taste

Procedure:

• Take a saucepan and heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
• Put the tomatoes, cayenne, and fennel and cook over medium flame until it becomes thick
• Take a wooden spoon to mash the tomatoes against the pan’s side for around five minutes.
• Add seasonings and serve warm with grilled chicken/beef and pasta.

All-Purpose Marinara Sauce

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 28 oz. canned diced tomatoes
• 28 oz. whole tomatoes (chopped)
• 6 oz. canned tomato paste
• 1 bulb garlic (peeled and sliced)
• 1 cup pitted olives (chopped)
• 1½ cup capers
• cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 4 oz. canned green chilies (diced)
• tsp cumin OR ½ tsp ground caraway
• 2 tbsp. horseradish (prepared)
• 2 cups portobello caps of the mushroom
• 1 tbsp. white sugar
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (dried)
• One tsp habanero hot sauce
• 1 tsp dried oregano

Procedure:

• Take a saucepan and heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Cook the garlic until it turns slightly brown.
• Drain unnecessary oil. Add the whole and diced tomatoes, tomato paste, green chilies, sugar, capers, portobello mushroom caps, horseradish, parsley, green olives, and habanero sauce.
• Season with oregano, Italian seasoning, and
• Keep a lid over it, and simmer it. Lower the heat and simmer to around 25 minutes.

Baked Eggs

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp. olive oil
• ½ medium onions (finely chopped)
• 1 tsp ground cumin OR ¼ tsp. of anise seeds with ¼ tsp. of caraway seeds
• 2 eggs
• 2 large tomatoes (cubed)
• Seasonings {Salt and Black pepper (freshly ground)}
• 1 pinch saffron

Procedure:

• Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
• Toast anise and caraway seeds in a dry, standard to big-sized skillet. Pour the olive oil.
• Add and cook the onions over moderate heat until soft.
• Add the tomatoes and sprinkle in the caraway/anise seeds.
• Stir it while cooking until the tomatoes softened.
• Add seasonings.
• Split the mixture of tomato into 2 standard ramekins.
• Add an egg to each ramekin.
• Sprinkle saffron threads over the eggs.
• Bake them for around 20-25 minutes, until yolk and whites and are set
• Take it out from the oven and add more seasonings if you want.
• Cool for a few minutes prior to serving.

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