Substitute for Coriander Seed: 1 Smart Options
The best substitute for coriander seed is Ground Coriander at a Use 50% ratio. There are 2 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Ground Coriander
Use 50%
Ground Coriander is a workable stand-in for coriander seed. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than coriander seed, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference.
What are the other substitutes for coriander seed?
Cumin Seeds
½ tsp cumin seeds per 1 tsp coriander seeds
Both are warm, earthy spices commonly used together. Cumin is stronger, so use half the amount. Toast before using for best flavor.
Flavor/texture:Earthier, smokier, and more pungent than coriander's bright, citrusy flavor.
Avoid when:Cumin is much more pungent and earthy. Using too much will overpower the dish. Different flavor profile.
Caraway Seeds
1 tsp caraway seeds per 1 tsp coriander seeds
Similar shape and texture with a warm, slightly sweet flavor. Related botanical family. Common in European and Middle Eastern cooking.
Flavor/texture:Warm and slightly sweet with anise undertones. Different from coriander's bright, lemony flavor.
Avoid when:Distinct anise-like flavor. Different from coriander's citrus notes. Best in recipes where caraway's flavor complements.
What should you know before substituting coriander seed?
Ground Coriander is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to coriander seed in everyday cooking. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Choose the substitute that gets you closest in flavor, texture, and ease of use.
How do you substitute coriander seed in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for coriander seed and you need an alternative, there are 3 tested substitutes available. Ground Coriander is the best overall replacement, used at a Use 50% ratio. The right substitute depends on the role coriander seed plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for coriander seed depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Ground Coriander (Use 50%), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Cumin Seeds (½ tsp cumin seeds per 1 tsp coriander seeds) is another reliable choice. Both are warm, earthy spices commonly used together. Cumin is stronger, so use half the amount. Toast before using for best flavor.
When substituting coriander seed, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Coriander Seed?
Ground Coriander is the best place to start for coriander seed. Use 50% of the original amount and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Coriander Seed?
This page lists 1 substitute for coriander seed. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.