Are you halfway through preparing a dish and realize that you are missing fennel seeds? Looking for the best substitute for these unexpected moments. Here is an article that helps you to know about various fennel seed substitutes when you have left none in your pantry!
Fennel seeds are quite a versatile spice, and their addition to any meal surely elevates the flavors and taste. It is loaded with strong earthy and sweet licorice-like flavors. The addition of fennel seeds helps to attain a new level of deliciousness.
Some of the best fennel seed substitutes are star anise, celery seeds, cumin seeds, licorice root, caraway seeds, cardamom, celery seeds, tarragon, ground fennel, dill seeds, onion, and many more.
In this blog article, I can walk you through the whole parade of various fennel seed substitutes. I have mentioned seeds and herbs-based alternatives to fill in the recipe that is missing out on the flavors of fennel seeds.
16 Best Fennel Seed Substitutes
For your ease and better understanding, I have prepared a table that shows various substitutes and their substitution ratio. Let’s go through the below-mentioned table.
| Substitutes | Substitution Ratio |
|---|---|
| Star Anise | 1 tablespoon of fennel seeds = 1 tablespoon of anise seeds |
| Cardamom | 1 tablespoon of fennel seeds = 1 tablespoon of cardamom |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 tablespoon of fennel seeds = 1 tablespoon of cumin seeds |
| Licorice Root | 1 tablespoon of fennel seeds = 1 tablespoon of licorice |
| Caraway Seeds | 1 tablespoon of fennel seeds = 1 tablespoon of caraway seeds |
| Celery Seeds | 1 tablespoon of fennel seeds = 1 tablespoon of celery seeds |
| Tarragon | 1 tablespoon of fennel seeds = 1 tablespoon of tarragon |
| Dill Seeds | 1 tablespoon of fennel seeds = 1 tablespoon of dill seeds |
| Ground Fennel | 1 tablespoon of fennel seeds = 1 tablespoon of ground fennel |
| Fennel Oil | 1 tablespoon of fennel seeds = ¼ tablespoon of fennel oil |
| Mahlab | 1 tablespoon of fennel seeds = 1 tablespoon of mahlab |
| Parsley | 1 tablespoon of fennel seeds = 1 tablespoon of parsley |
| Artichoke | 1 tablespoon of fennel seeds = 1 tablespoon of artichoke |
Now, you are aware of all the substitutes and their substitution ratio. Let’s zone in and learn about each fennel seed substitution in detail.
1. Star Anise
Who doesn’t love the warm flavors of the star anise? Your search for the closest fennel seed substitute ends here.
Star anise is loaded with warm flavors, and you will surely experience hints of licorice. You can use it in all kinds of recipes, such as soups, curries, and even bread.
Thus, the versatility of this spice makes it quite worthy of this list. The versatile nature of this spice makes it the best alternative for the fennel seed.
So this spice can easily be incorporated whether you are preparing savory dishes or desserts. Moreover, star anise can easily be available in your pantry.
Both star anise and fennel seeds share a similar flavor profile. Thus, you can substitute fennel seed with star anise by a 1:1 ratio.
2. Cardamom
The presence of cardamom just elevates the flavors and aroma of the recipe. Worldwide high-end chefs and restaurants admire the flavors of this spice.
Well, this spice is quite a well-known delicacy and is also an expensive one. The warm and spicy flavors of cardamom make it a perfect substitute for fennel seeds.
Whether it is black or green cardamom, it perfectly improves the flavors of the recipe to which it is added. Most importantly, it does not alter the flavors of the final dish.
It brings out the best flavors of vegetables, legumes, grains, and potatoes. You can use a 1:1 substitution ratio.
3. Ground Clove
The ground clove is also a great option to substitute fennel seed. Ground clove is well known for its aromatic essence and bold flavors.
Both fennel seeds and ground clove share the same flavors. They both have strong flavors with subtle sweetness with undertones of bitterness.
It is also known for its smoky flavors. You can incorporate it into sweet and savory recipes. If you don’t have a grounded clove, then just grind the whole clove, and you are good to go.
Regarding the substitution ratio, you can use a 1:1. Thus, we can say that adding this spice is definitely a decadent update to a dull recipe.
4. Cumin Seeds
Want to add a hint of spiciness? Try using cumin seeds as a substitute for fennel seeds. Cumin seeds are enriched with warm earthy flavors that surely upgrade the simple recipe to a whole new level.
Both cumin seeds and fennel seeds are quite similar in appearance. Thus you can easily use cumin seeds for garnishing purposes. You can also use it in salads, sauces, and soups.
Speaking of the substitution ratio, you can go for the 1:1 balance. You can use it either in seeded form or powdered form. When cooked, Cumin seeds as a substitute for fennel seeds are sure a worthy one!
5. Licorice Root
Try this alternative if you do not want to miss the taste of fennel seeds. Licorice root has strong flavors that resemble fennel seeds.
The level of sweetness in licorice root is much more than in fennel seeds. Thus, it is an apt option for cakes, pies, and other dessert items.
Chocolates and fruits best accompany the sweetness of the licorice. However, excess consumption leads to health issues.
Thus, I would suggest using half the quantity of licorice root while substituting fennel seeds. You can use licorice root as a ½ :1 ratio.
6. Caraway Seeds
Looking for another alternative for fennel seeds? Try caraway seeds as a substitution. Some people might confuse it with cumin seeds as they appear similar.
These seeds are known for their aromatic flavors that quite resemble anise seeds. When it comes to taste, it is just similar to the perfect mixture of anise and cumin with hints of citrus.
Flavors of caraway seeds are just an ideal option to enjoy with cream-based soups and cooked cabbage. You are definitely going to experience licorice-like notes. The addition of caraway seeds is surely going to enhance the flavors of a dish.
7. Celery Seeds
Another alternative on this list is celery seeds. The addition of the celery seeds over the delicious salad dressing and sauces just elevates its flavors to the next best level.
The strong aromatic components and savory flavors make it a great company for different recipes. Well, there are two different ways you can use celery seeds- whole or grounded.
Celery seeds are among my favorite things to add to salad dressings and sauces.
While the flavor of celery seeds does differ from fennel seeds, you still get the aroma and savory component in your dishes.
Celery seeds taste very similar to celery but have a slight bitterness. Add whole or ground celery seeds to your dish. You can use a 1:1 substitution ratio.
8. Tarragon
Are you looking for the best fennel seed substitute? Then, you just can’t miss tarragon? This herb was used earlier for preparing French cuisine, but now it is vitally used in other recipes worldwide.
It has a similar profile to anise or licorice when discussing flavors and aroma. You can substitute fennel seed with tarragon in sauces and soups.
However, it has strong flavors that upgrade the flavors of recipes. Since fresh tarragon goes well in heat thus, I would rather suggest you add it much earlier while preparing the recipe.
You can use both dried and fresh ones as substitutes. You can use a fresh tarragon 1:1 ratio for fennel seed while cooking. You can substitute half a teaspoon for every tablespoon of fennel seed.
9. Dill Seeds
Another best substitute for fennel seeds is dill seeds. Wondering what dill seeds taste like? Well, it will remind you of caraway seeds.
Dill seeds have fresh citrusy and earthy flavors with undertones of sweetness. It is popularly used to intensify the flavors of fish, pickles, soups, and many more.
Sprinkle dill seeds over your favorite cucumber salads, and you are good to go! When compared, these seeds are less sweet and potent than fennel seeds.
The taste and flavors of dill seeds are mild compared to the fennel seeds, so I must use more. If you want to use them as a substitute for fennel seeds, you must use them in double quantities.
10. Ground Fennel
What else is better than the grounded fennel? Ground fennel is the perfect option to rejoice the similar flavors and tastes.
It is nothing but the powder form of the fennel. Isn’t it a great option? So, if the recipe demands fennel seeds, you can add ground fennel instead and rejoice in the same taste.
These work so well if you are not an admirer of the texture of seeds. Substitute fennel seeds with ground fennel with a 1:1 ratio.
11. Fennel Oil
Is your dish called for fennel seeds? Then, go for fennel oil. This is one of the best substitutes for fennel seeds.
Fennel oil is made by extracting the essential oil from the fennel seeds. This substitute has a grassy, herbal with hints of sweetness.
The texture of fennel seeds can be avoided by substituting them with fennel oil. This alternative is strong, so I recommend you start with a small quantity and gradually increase it.
This oil is quite beneficial for overall health. Moreover, it is best suited to salads. Use ¼ amount of fennel oil for substituting fennel seeds.
12. Mahlab
Mahlab is quite a popular herb in Mediterranean cooking and is known for its cherry aroma. You can use it as a substitute for the fennel seeds as it has identical sweetness and sourness.
The best part is that it is not that expensive and has strong flavors. In addition to this, it is quite a versatile ingredient for savory dishes.
Since it has intense flavors make sure it is used in less quantity. Although it may alter the final dish, those distinctive flavors will surely make your family members happy!
13. Parsley
Parsley is well known for its garnishing properties. Thus, it can easily be used as a great and easily available option for substituting fennel seeds in the recipe.
Wanna know the best part? You can find this household herb throughout the year. In addition, it has a mild taste, making it a fantastic alternative for fennel seeds.
Parsley can be added to any meat or fish-based recipe. Moreover, it won’t overpower the other flavors of the dish. Parsley has an earthy flavor and is safe to use as a substitute for dill.
When it comes to the substitution ratio, you can substitute it in a 1:1 ratio.
It might be lacking somewhere if you want to add strong flavors. Just add more quantity of this if you want to add strong flavors that suit your taste.
14. Onion
Do you know you can also use onion as a substitute for fennel seeds? You can use onion and have similar flavors as fennel seeds.
Before using this alternative in soups, sauces, or other dishes, ensure you cook it well and mell it down well.
Adding the onion to the dishes does not even alter the taste and flavors of the recipe.
15. Artichoke
For those who are unaware of artichoke, I must tell you that it is a vegetable. You might have found artichokes in salads and as a side recipe.
This vegetable has a nutty taste with undertones of sweetness. You can enjoy this vegetable raw as well as in cooked form.
It can easily be used as a substitute for fennel seeds, and you can use it in a similar amount. Use it as a 1:1 ratio.
16. Anisette Liqueur
Anisette liqueur is another substitute you can try as a replacement for fennel seeds. This substitute adds a potent sweetness to everyone’s drinks.
This is made with fennel seeds and thus suits the dish’s flavors. It does not much affect the flavors of the final dish.
In addition to this, alcohol is present in this substitute, so I suggest you not offer the dish to the children. The substitution ratio may vary and depends on the taste of the liqueur. So I would suggest you start with a small dose before adding more.
Short Recap Of The Substitutes For Dill
I know that was a whole lineup of various substitutes, and it was quite difficult to remember each of them. Well, don’t worry; I will make this task easy for you in this section.
Best Substitutes For Dill In Terms Of Flavors
- Star Anise
- Caraway seeds
- Fennel oil
- Ground fennel
- Ground Clove
Best Substitutes For Dill In Terms Of Availability
- Onion
- Dill Seeds
- Ground Clove
- Star Anise
- Cumin Seeds
Best Substitutes For Dill In Terms Of Texture
- Cumin seeds
- Caraway seeds
- Dill seeds
- Celery seeds
How To Use Fennel Seeds Substitutes In A Recipe
16 Fennel Seed Substitutes You Can Try!
Ingredients
- Star Anise
- Cardamom
- Ground Clove
- Cumin Seeds
- Licorice Root
- Caraway Seeds
- Celery Seeds
- Tarragon
- Dill Seeds
- Ground Fennel
- Fennel Oil
- Mahlab
- Parsley
- Onion
- Artichoke
- Anisette Liqueur
Instructions
- Go through the substitutes and see which one seems fit for the recipe.
- Collect your ingredients and use your preferred substitute.
- Use the substitute in the required amount and proceed to make the dish according to the recipe.
Conclusion
Fennel seeds are quite versatile ingredients and are a pantry staple. Fennel seeds are quite a versatile spice, and their addition surely elevates the flavors in the meals.
It is loaded with strong earth flavors. In this article, I have mentioned all the best-known fennel seed substitutes for you. So whenever you next run out of fennel seeds, you know what substitute for choosing!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the substitutes for fennel seeds?
Some of the best fennel seed substitutes are star anise, celery seeds, cumin seeds, licorice root, caraway seeds, cardamom, celery seeds, tarragon, ground fennel, dill seeds, onion, and many more.
What are fennel seeds substitutes that are easily available?
Onion, star anise, ground clove, cumin seeds, and dill seeds are easily available substitutes for fennel seeds.
What are fennel seeds substitutes that are texture?
Cumin seeds, caraway seeds, dill seeds, and celery seeds are the best substitutes in terms of texture.
