Pickling spice substitutes
Pickling spice substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Homemade pickling spice
Same amount as the pickling spice
Custom blend of whole spices for pickling.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- pickling
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of pickling spice | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Homemade pickling spicepickling | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Mustard seedspickling | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Coriander seedspickling | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Dill seedspickling | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Peppercornspickling | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Bay leavespickling | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Homemade pickling spice
similar taste and texture
Custom blend of whole spices for pickling.
- Best for
- pickling, marinades, brines, cooking
Mix 2 parts mustard seeds + 1 part coriander + 1 part bay leaves + 1 part peppercorns.
Mustard seeds
different taste, similar texture
Whole mustard seeds with similar flavor.
- Best for
- pickling, marinades, brines, cooking
Similar flavor, may need additional spices.
Coriander seeds
different taste, similar texture
Whole coriander seeds with similar flavor.
- Best for
- pickling, marinades, brines, cooking
Similar flavor, may need additional spices.
Dill seeds
different taste, similar texture
Whole dill seeds with similar flavor.
- Best for
- pickling, marinades, brines, cooking
Similar flavor, may need additional spices.
Peppercorns
different taste, similar texture
Whole peppercorns with similar flavor.
- Best for
- pickling, marinades, brines, cooking
Similar flavor, may need additional spices.
Bay leaves
different taste, similar texture
Whole bay leaves with similar flavor.
- Best for
- pickling, marinades, brines, cooking
Similar flavor, may need additional spices.
Questions
4 questionsCan I make my own pickling spice?
Yes, you can make pickling spice by mixing whole spices like mustard seeds, coriander, bay leaves, and peppercorns. This allows you to control the flavor profile and freshness.
What's the difference between pickling spice and regular spices?
Pickling spice is a blend of whole spices specifically designed for pickling, while regular spices are individual ground or whole spices. Pickling spice provides a balanced flavor profile for pickled vegetables.
Can I use individual spices instead of pickling spice?
Yes, you can use individual spices like mustard seeds, coriander, and bay leaves, though you may need to adjust the amounts to achieve the desired flavor profile.
Why is pickling spice so popular in preserving?
Pickling spice is popular in preserving because it adds flavor, complexity, and helps preserve vegetables. It's a traditional blend that has been used for centuries in pickling and preserving.
Tips for substituting pickling spice
6 tips- Pickling spice adds flavor and complexity to pickled vegetables
- Pickling spice can be used in both sweet and savory pickles
- Pickling spice pairs well with vinegar and salt
- Pickling spice can be used to make marinades and brines
- Pickling spice can be used in cooking to add flavor
- Store pickling spice in an airtight container