Dill Weed Vs. Dill Seeds | Are Both Of Them The Same?

Both dill weed and dill seed belong to the same plant. Many people often categorize them under a single name, dill. But are the dill weed and dill seed the same? No! Even though they belong to the same plant, they have totally different uses and flavors.

So what is the difference between the two? If you are somebody who is new to cooking, you must have often used both of these ingredients interchangeably. Although they are from the same plant, they differ considerably in their taste, nutrients, and health benefits.

Dill weed and dill seed belong to the Apiaceae family. Dill weed refers to the stem and leaf of the dill plant and has a sweet, grassy, and liquorice taste. Dill seed, on the other hand, is commonly known as dill.

It has a taste similar to that of anise. Both dill weeds and dill seeds are used in cooking. However, dill seeds have a much stronger taste than that dill weeds.

We now know a considerable difference between dill weed and dill seeds. In this article, we will know these ingredients a little deeper. We will focus on its flavor, aroma, uses, nutrients, health benefits, and more.

Dill Weed Vs. Dill Seed | Difference Table

What Is Dill Weed?

Anethum graveolens, also known as dill, is a herb that belongs to the Apiaceae family. Dill weed refers to the seeds and stem of the dill plant. These are commonly available in almost all grocery stores.

Dill weeds look similar to carrot stems. They have thin leaves which are attached to the thick stem. Dill weeds have a crispy texture to them when added to dishes. Fresh dill has a licorice-type taste to it.

However, if you plan to harvest some dill weeds, get them before flowering. The flower of dill plants is inedible. Not just that, the floral dill plants will have a bitter taste and cannot be used for dishes.

Dill plants are not just a culinary ingredient. It has feathery leaves and bright yellow flowers, making it a perfect addition to all your garden. They look good, taste good, and even smell good, and there is no room for hate!

There is a wide variety of dill weeds available to us. If you are interested in knowing more about it, read this section. The given section discusses the wide variety of dill weeds available to us.

• Bouquet – this is the most popular dill weed variety. It has extremely fragrant leaves and seeds and is commonly used for cooking.
• Long Island –  Long Island is a dill variety good for pickling. It can grow upto 1.5 m
• Dukat – Also known as “Tetra,” Dukat is a Danish variant of dill. Dukat is a short variety of dill. It has a very bright green color to it. Moreover, it has high oil content and is extremely aromatic, making it an excellent option for salads.
• Delikat – Delikat has very thick foliage. Due to this, it has thick leaves, making it ideal for farmers to cultivate. This variety is mainly grown for leaf harvesting.
• Vierling – We have already discussed how dill leaves become bitter once the plant has flowers. This variety of dill takes time to bloom; if you need to use leaves for a longer time, grow a Vierling variety.
• Hercules – Like Vierling, Hercules takes a lot of time to bloom. Hercules have coarser leaves than the other variety. So if you are planting Hercules, make sure to harvest the leaves when they are younger and tender to enjoy the best.
• Compatto – It has blue-green foliage and a very bold flavor profile. It grows up to 18 inches tall and is tolerant to heat and cold.

Dill weeds can be found in fresh and dried form, and both have culinary uses. Fresh dill imparts a crunchy licorice taste to the food, whereas dry dill weeds are less flavorful than fresh dill weeds.

What Is Dill Seeds?

Just as its name suggests, dill seeds are the seeds of the dill plant. They have an anise-like taste and are widely used in Russian, German, and Indian cooking. Dill seeds are brown in color and are flat and oval-shaped.

Dill seeds have a very pleasant smell and warm taste to them. Dill seeds are often used to produce oils and have medicinal properties. They are widely used for culinary and medicinal purposes.

Dill seeds very well complement bread and soups. Not only are they flavoring ingredients, but dill seeds also have many health benefits. Dill seeds are all the same and don’t have wide different varieties.

One interesting fact about dill seed is that in earlier times, it was known as the “meeting house seeds.” It is because of the fact that earlier people used to chew these seeds to prevent sleeping during church mass. 

Dill Weed Vs. Dill Seeds | Similarities Between The Two

From what little we have read, we know that dill weed and dill seeds, regardless of being from the same plant, have considerable differences. But before pointing out the differences, let’s quickly look at its similarity, which you cannot miss noticing!

Both Belong To The Same Family

Both dill weeds and dill seeds belong to the same Apiaceae family. It comes in the same family as celery and carrots.

Both Are Used To Flavor The Dishes.

Both dill weeds and dill seeds are widely used for flavoring dishes. While dill weeds bring a crunchy texture and minty taste, dill seeds bring a more anise-like flavor to the food. Both of them are widely used in soups and for pickling.

Dill Weed Vs. Dill Seeds | What Are The Major Differences?

Even though both dill seeds and dill weeds are used interchangeably, there is a considerable difference between the two. Regardless of being from the same plant, they greatly differ in taste, health benefits, and even culinary activities. So in this section, we are going to look into some of the differences.

1. Origin

Even though both the dill weeds and the dill seeds are of the same origin, each was used at different times. The earliest to use dill weeds were the Egyptians. They used these dill weeds to cure diseases. 

However, there is no saved record regarding who started to use the dill seeds first!

2. Taste And Aroma

Dill weed, also known as dill herb, has a unique flavor profile. It has a licorice-like taste to it with a hint of grassiness. When talking about the flavor, the flavor of dill weed can be comparable to that of the anise plant.

On the other hand, Dill seeds have a very strong flavor profile. Dill seeds have a light citrusy taste, comparable to anise and caraway seeds. Moreover, dill seeds have a very calming and warm smell to them.

3. Appearance 

Dill is a biennial or annual plant that grows up to 4 feet in suitable conditions. The plants have green feathered leaves, which come from strong stems. There are vertical white to off-white lines running across the stem.

 The stems of dill weeds are hollow. Once matured, these plants will have yellow, which later carry the dill seeds.

Dill seeds are easy to recognize. They have a tear-shaped pod structure. Unlike other seeds, dill seeds have a wide flat shape to them. It has a dark brown color with black borders. They, as we have discussed above, come from the dill flowers.

4. Culinary Usage

Dill weeds have many culinary uses. Mostly dill is commonly associated with pickles. But let me tell you, there are many more culinary uses for dill than just pickling. Dill weeds are often added to soups and sauces to bring a liquorice taste to the food.

Moreover, dill weeds are mild in taste and crunchy. Dill weeds can be used in both chopped and whole forms. They are often added to soups, sauces, and casseroles to enhance the recipe’s flavor. 

Dill seeds can be used in both raw forms as well as cooked. Dill seeds taste well with East European cuisines. However, dill seeds are now a household name in many cultures due to their taste.

Dill seeds have an earthy taste to them. Thus it blends very well with cooked vegetables like carrots and potatoes. Not just for vegetable dishes, dill seeds work perfectly well in meat dishes.

Not just that, dill seeds bring in so many flavors to broth and soups. Dill seed needs no grinding or cooking and can be used as it is. Moreover, since dill seeds have a flavor and aroma, these seeds are used to cut down the fishy smell and gamey aroma of fish and meat dishes.

5. Nutrition 

Both dill seeds and dill weeds have a comprehensive nutritional profile. In this section, we will look into the nutritional content of dill seeds and dill weeds. However, whether it’s dill seeds or dill weeds, we only add a limited amount to our food.

Dill seeds are packed with many vital minerals and nutrients. It contains vitamins A and C and fibers in high amounts. The caloric value of dill seed is around 6 (per spoon). It also has riboflavin and calcium.

On the other hand, Dill weed has a caloric value of 5. It also contains iron, manganese, vitamin A, and iron. Dill weed is low in calories and nutrition, making it perfect for adding to your daily food.

When compared between dill weed and dill seeds, dill weed has much higher nutritional benefits than dill seeds. Since dill weeds have a low caloric value, they are suitable for all people, especially people who are concerned about the caloric value of their food.

6. Substitutes 

We have discussed how dill seeds and dill weeds are extremely flavorful and nutritious. However, when we are out of these ingredients, we need to find a good substitute for each that could replicate the flavor and texture of the main ingredient. 

In this section, let’s briefly go through the most suitable dill seed and dill weed substitute. Dill seeds are seeds with a lemony flavor. Therefore, fennel seeds, caraway seeds, anise seeds, and oregano are some of the best dill seed substitutes.

On the other hand, Dill weed consists of dill leaves and stems. They are sweet and grassy with a licorice undertone. Thus basil, chervil, fennel, parsley, rosemary, tarragon, and thyme are some of the most suitable dill weed substitutes.

Also, dill weed can be substituted with dry dill weeds. However, while using the dill weed and dill seed substitutes, follow the 1:1 ratio. For one teaspoon of dill weed or doll seed, use one teaspoon of its corresponding substitute.

7. Harvesting & Storage

Dill weeds and dill seeds should be harvested and stored in different ways. Dill weeds should be harvested before the flowering of the plant. Once bloomed, the whole plant will have a bitter taste and wouldn’t be suitable for eating.

Moreover, it is said that the best time to harvest dill seeds is in the early morning. While harvested in the morning, the leaves would have the highest moisture content making them more crunchy and flavorful.

Dill weeds can be stored in the refrigerator along with other leafy plants. However, if you want to use it immediately, place it in a cup of water. Dill weeds can also be used in dried form. However, most people prefer it in the fresh form due to its strong flavor.

On the other hand, Dill seeds are harvested at the end of the plant’s cycle. They come from the flowers of the dill plant. They are harvested once they are golden brown. Like all other seeds, dill seeds can be dried and kept longer.

8. Health Benefits

Both dill weed and dill seeds are extremely beneficial for our health. Both parts of the plants have been used locally for many purposes. In this section, we will look at some of the well-known health benefits of dill seeds and dill weed.

People have been using dill seeds for ages. Dill seeds can control the insulin level in our bodies. Having dill seeds in your food can help you achieve a more regulated blood sugar level and are good for people who suffer from type 2 diabetes.

Dill seeds are also a good source of calcium. Calcium, as we all know, is essential for our bone health. Dill seeds help to prevent bone porosity and thereby prevent diseases like osteoporosis. 

People used to chew dill seeds after a meal. This is because dill seeds are said to be good for gut health. Dill seeds are carnivorous in nature. It prevents the excess gas formation and prevents bloating. Even if you have gas trouble, having dill seeds would help to calm them down.

Also, dill seeds would be helpful if you are suffering from diarrhea. Dill seeds have anti-microbial properties, which would help to calm down the infection in our stomach. Thus dill seeds are extremely beneficial for our digestive health.

Dill weed, on the other hand, is extremely rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help to fight the free radicals in our body and thereby help to prevent so many diseases, including that cancer. Dill weeds are also good for our heart health. It contains flavonoids which have anti-inflammatory properties.

Can We Use Dill Seed As A Dill Weed Substitute?

When both ingredients belong to the same plant, we often think that both can be used as each other’s substitute. But that’s not the case when it comes to dill weed and dill seeds.

Dill weed and dill seeds cannot be used as each other’s substitutes. Dill weeds are leafy and have a sweet and mellow taste with a crunchy texture, whereas dill seeds are hard and have a bold flavor profile.

Therefore, they cannot be used as each other’s substitute. However, there is some exceptional recipe where we could use dill seeds and dill weed as each other’s substitute.

Can Dill Seed And Dill Weed Be Used Together?

Using dill weed and dill seeds in the same dish isn’t very common. They have different flavor profiles. However, there are some dishes where we could use these two ingredients together or interchangeably.

• For Marinating Meat: Both dill seeds and dill weeds bring a lot of flavor to the recipe. Therefore, while marinating meat dishes, you can use dill seeds or dill weeds. But if you want a flavor-packed recipe, add both to your meat. While dill weed adds a licorice flavor, dill seed will make it more aromatic.
• Cucumber Pickle: Both dill seeds and dill weeds can be added to cucumber pickles for a heightened flavor. Dill seed should be added to the brine, whereas dill weeds should be added as the last ingredient. Both bring a fresh flavor to the cucumber pickle and are commonly used together.
• Salad Dressing: Dill weeds are the perfect way to bring s crunchy sweet taste to your salads. Therefore, if you are preparing a salad bowl, make some room for dill weed. Also, garnish them with some dill seeds if you need a flavor boost.

Top Dishes To Make With Dill Weed

Here are some of my favorite recipes if you have some dill weed in your home.

1. Tartar Sauce

Tartar sauce is one of the easiest and tastiest recipes from dill weed. You can have some tartar sauce from the shop, but nothing can beat the taste of homemade tartar sauce.

To make this sauce, you will need mayonnaise, pickled and fresh dill weeds, lemon juice, sugar, and black pepper. Once you have all of these, mix them in a bowl and give them a good stir, and just like that, your homemade tartar sauce is ready to serve!

2. Baked Lemon Dill Salmon With Dill Sauce

Finding someone who hates salmon can be a hard job! But if you find someone, feed them with this baked lemon dill salmon to change their opinion. Baked dill salmon is extremely easy to make and is just a perfection of flavors. 

What adds more beauty is the dill sauce we serve along with this recipe. For making this recipe, add lemon juice and dried dill weed while baking the salmon. Mix mayonnaise, honey, and crushed dill weed with salt and pepper for the sauce.

3. Dill Pickle Dip

Cooked veggies are boring to eat on their own. However, if you want to bring a twist to your recipe, have them with dill pickle dip. They just need four ingredients and can be made by anyone, anywhere.

For making this recipe, mix cream cheese, pickled dill, and juice of dill pickle and mix well. The perfect side dish for your otherwise boring vegetable is ready!

4. Cucumber Dill Salad With Lemon 

Lazy mornings call for an easy breakfast and if you are in a rush, try this easy cucumber dill salad with the lemon recipe. Dill weed has a complex flavor profile. But it is the perfect ingredient to include in all your salad bowls.

 To make this recipe, mix cucumber, fresh dill weed, lettuce, and feta cheese in a bowl. Add some lemon juice or any vinegar of your preference. Add some salt and a teaspoon of honey and give it a thorough mix. 

5. Lemon Dill Butter

Lemon dill butter is extremely easy to make. All you need is some lemon, dill, and butter. If you want, you can add some salt and pepper to add some flavor to the recipe. Lemon dill butter very well compliments breads and salads.

Top Dishes To Make With Dill Seeds

Here are some of the dishes that use dill seeds.

1. Dilly Beans 

Dilly beans are one of those dishes which anyone can prepare. For making this recipe, we only need a handful of ingredients.

Choose some beans (any of your choice), and add cloves, red pepper flakes, dill seeds, vinegar, and salt. Add one cup of water to this mixture, along with some salt. Put all of this into an airtight jar and close them. Taste them after a week to enjoy the best dilly beans.

2. Dill Seed Bread

Whole wheat bread is not just nutritious but is also extremely tasty. If you are preparing some whole beat bread, try adding some dill seeds.

With their unique taste and delicious aroma, Dill seeds make your bread even better. More than that, dill seeds are extremely good for our good health. Dill seed bread is nutritious, tasty, and something you shouldn’t miss out on!

3. Dill Seed Braid 

Dill seed braid is another form of bread but with better taste and better Ingredients. If you have some time, then a dill seed braid is something you should try! It needs a few more ingredients than the normal recipe. But the taste of the dish will effectively compensate for all your efforts.

To make this recipe, you will need yeast, water, yogurt, onion, sugar, butter, egg, dill seed, salt, and all-purpose flour. Mix it, knead it, and bake it! 

4. Dill Seed Tea

 Dill seed tea is an easy-to-prepare drink. All we need to make this drink is crushed dill seeds and water. All you need to do is boil the water and then add some dill seeds into the boiling water. Allow it to boil for another ten minutes. Your dill seed tea is ready to drink.

Dill seed tea isn’t just flavorful but has many health benefits. Dill seed tea is great for guy health and is widely known for its calming properties. 

Dill Seeds Vs. Dill Weeds | Which Is Healthier?

Now that we have discussed dill seeds and dill weeds, it’s time to choose between them. When compared between dill seeds and dill weeds, dill weeds are much healthier than dill seeds.

Dill weeds have high nutrient values and less caloric content, making them a perfect addition to all your diets. 

Dill Seeds Vs. Dill Weeds | Which Is Tastier?

Dill weeds taste better than dill seeds. Dill weeds have a mild taste to them. Dill weeds are sweet with a mild licorice taste to them. They are crunchy and add a fresh flavor to the dish. However, dill seeds have a minty anise taste to them.

Its flavor profile is much more profound than that of the dill weeds. Many people cannot tolerate the taste of dill seeds. Therefore, it’s safe to assume that the dill weeds taste better than the dill seeds.

Dill Seeds Vs. Dill Weeds| Which Is More Versatile?

In the above section, we have seen the difference between dill seeds and dill weeds. We have seen that dill weeds are a main ingredient in many dishes, whereas dill seeds are only used in a minimum quantity.

Therefore we can say that dill weeds are more versatile than dill seeds.

Dill Seeds Vs. Dill Weeds | Which Is Better?

After reading so much about dill seeds and dill weeds, let’s conclude that dill weeds are better than dill seeds. It has a more mellow flavor and can be used in many dishes. Dill weeds also have many medicinal properties.

Conclusion 

Finally, we have reached the end of the discussion. We had a long read about dill seeds and dill weeds. Even though both are from the dill plant, these ingredients’ culinary and medicinal properties are very different.

When it comes to taste, dill weed is much better than dill seed. Many people dislike the intense flavor of dill seed. Only a small proportion of it is needed to flavor the whole recipe. If you are someone who is new to cooking, dill seed might be a little hard to handle.

However, both dill seeds and dill weeds have many health benefits. If you are confused about choosing dill seeds or dill weed, go for dill weed without a second thought. Enjoy a bowl of vegetable salad with some freshly chopped dill weed!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)