7 Coriander Substitutes in Curry, Soup, Falafel and Other Cooking

Coriander is one of those herbs that is often used in a wide variety of recipes. Coriander leaves and seeds both taste quite different, despite being from the same plant. So what do you do if you’re all out of coriander and don’t have time to run to the store? These coriander substitutes work great in a pinch and taste just as good as the original.

Here are 7 great substitutes for coriander.

1. Cumin

As anyone who has ever cooked with cumin knows, this spice has a strong and distinctive flavor. Cumin is an earthy spice with a long history of use in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine and has a signature flavor that is native to many popular dishes. If you’re looking for a substitute for coriander seeds, definitely give this a try.

Can I Use Cumin Instead of Coriander?

Yes, cumin can be a coriander substitute in some recipes. While cumin and coriander are both common spices used in Indian cooking and add plenty of depth and dimension to your recipe, they have very different flavor profiles.

Cumin is earthy with a slightly smoky flavor, while coriander is quite bright. These differences can make cumin a more suitable substitute for coriander in certain recipes. For example, cumin may be a better choice for spice rubs or curry powders as a coriander seed substitute, but not for use in salads or clear soups as a coriander leaf substitute.

Cumin contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may promote heart health and help to reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases. Studies have shown that cumin can aid in digestion, help to regulate blood sugar levels, and even boost immunity. In addition, cumin is a good source of iron and other minerals, making it an excellent addition to any diet.

Best for: spice rubs, curries, heavier dishes, stews, roasts, savory dishes, casseroles

How to Substitute Cumin for Coriander

Substitute 1 tablespoon of coriander seeds with ½ teaspoon of cumin.

When using freshly ground cumin, you may need to reduce the amount of cumin needed in your recipe to ¼ teaspoon for every 1 tablespoon of coriander. This is because freshly toasted cumin seeds have a more intense flavor compared to ground cumin that has already been sitting on store shelves.

2. Caraway

Caraway and coriander are members of the parsley family so it’s no surprise that they share a certain similarity in flavor. Both caraway and coriander can be used fresh or dried, but caraway seeds are more commonly used than its leaves.

Can I Use Caraway Instead of Coriander?

Absolutely! Caraway seeds, like coriander seeds, are highly aromatic and have a slight sharpness to them. One slight difference is that caraway is more pungent than coriander and that should be taken into account when using it as a substitute. Additionally, caraway seeds have a tough exterior that needs to be softened before cooking, whereas coriander seeds can be used whole.

Caraway seeds have long been used as a natural remedy for a variety of digestive problems. The seeds are thought to stimulate the appetite, promote digestion, and relieve gas and bloating. Additionally, caraway has been used to treat respiratory problems such as coughs and bronchitis as the aromatic nature of the seeds is thought to help open up the airways and clear congestion. Caraway also contains antioxidants, which can help to protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation.

Best for: stews, casseroles, soups, savory breads, savory rolls, savory dishes, curries, roasts

How to Substitute Caraway for Coriander

Substitute 1 tablespoon of coriander with ½ tablespoon of ground caraway.

When substituting caraway for coriander, start with half the amount and add more to taste since caraway has a stronger flavor. With its unique flavor and versatility, caraway is an essential ingredient in any cook’s pantry.

3. Garam Masala

Garam masala is an Indian spice blend that is made with a combination of cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, chili pepper, cloves, mustard se