Caraway spice substitutes
Caraway spice substitutes — 3 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Fennel seeds
Same amount as the caraway spice
Similar seeds with different flavor.
The best substitutes for caraway spice are fennel seeds, cumin, or dill seeds, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- cooking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of caraway spice | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fennel seedscooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Cumincooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Dill seedscooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Fennel seeds
different taste, similar texture
Similar seeds with different flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, baking, spice blends, marinades
Different flavor, similar earthiness - sweeter.
Cumin
different taste, similar texture
Similar spice with different flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, baking, spice blends, marinades
Different flavor, similar earthiness - more pungent.
Dill seeds
different taste, similar texture
Similar seeds with different flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, baking, spice blends, marinades
Different flavor, similar earthiness - more floral.
Questions
3 questionsCan I use fennel seeds instead of caraway seeds?
Yes, fennel seeds are the closest substitute for caraway seeds, but they're sweeter and have a licorice-like flavor.
What's the difference between caraway and fennel seeds?
Caraway seeds are more bitter and earthy, while fennel seeds are sweeter and have a licorice-like flavor.
Can I use caraway seeds in bread?
Yes, caraway seeds are commonly used in rye bread and other European breads for flavor and texture.
Tips for substituting caraway spice
4 tips- Caraway seeds have a unique earthy, slightly bitter flavor
- They're commonly used in German, Eastern European, and Middle Eastern cooking
- Toast caraway seeds before using to enhance their flavor
- Caraway seeds are often used in bread, sauerkraut, and meat dishes