In this article, we will get to know the ten best substitutes for fennel seeds and multiple ways to use them.
Fennel seeds are a flavorful ingredient in a variety of cuisines, including sautéed fennel and fennel sausage. You can typically find them in the spice department of your local grocery store, even though they are pricey when bought fresh.
If you’re out of fennel seeds or need to add them to a dish quickly and don’t have time to pick up some fresh ones, you may be wondering what to use as a replacement. To help you figure it out, we’ve compiled a list of the ten best fennel seed substitutes.
Fennel Taste and Aroma
Fennel is one of my favorite flavors . It’s anise-like and sweet with a slight licorice taste. The seeds have a slightly bitter taste and aromatic. It’s what give Italian sausage it’s distinct flavor.
But what is amazing about fennel is that can go from savory to sweet so well. Rani candy is an Indian candy made with fennel seeds. Fennel is used in some German cakes and pastries too.
It’s a beautiful flavor! Now, if you are here you don’t have any fennel seeds and are looking for a quick substitute. Let me help you with these 7 amazing fennel substitutes!
1.Star Anise
Star Anise is a widespread flavor, particularly in Mediterranean and Asian cuisine.
Star anise is a great alternative to fennel seeds. They have a similar licorice flavor and can be used in sweet and savory dishes. Star anise is commonly used in Chinese cooking, so it’s easy to find in most Asian markets.
Because star anise is very hard, it is best used in sauces, soups, stocks, drinks and other liquids where it can be steeped.
2.Anise Seeds
If you’ve ever tried Middle Eastern, Italian, German, Indian, and Mexican foods you’re probably already familiar with the flavor of Anise.
Anise seeds are another good substitute for fennel seeds. Like fennel seeds, they have a licorice type flavor and can be used in sweets or in more savory dishes. Anise seeds are often used in baking, so they can easily be found in the baking aisle of your grocery store. Many popular Italian cookies use anise seeds and flavoring.
Anise seeds are smaller than fennel seeds, so you may need to use more of them to get the same flavor.
3.Caraway seeds
Caraway seeds have been popular in Scandinavian a cooking, and also is found in the cuisine of Northern Africa,for example Harissa.
Caraway seeds are a good substitute for fennel seeds in savory dishes. Caraway seeds are used in a variety of cuisines, including German and Scandinavian cooking. Caraway seeds have a nutty flavor with hints of anise and can be found in the spice aisle of your grocery store.
Like fennel seeds, caraway seeds can be used in breads, sauerkraut, stews and other savory dishes.
4. Dill Seeds
Dill seeds have a taste that is somewhat similar to fennel seeds with a few mild differences.
Dill seeds are a good substitute for fennel seeds in pickling recipes and other savory dishes. Dill has a slightly sweet flavor with a small hints of an fennel flavoring. It can be easily found in the spice aisle of your grocery store.
Dill seeds are often used in pickling recipes, but can also be used in soups, stews, breads, and other savory dishes. It also compliments egg and fish dishes quite well.
5.Fennel Pollen
Have you ever tried the spice of angels? Well, that’s exactly what fennel pollen is describes as.
Fennel pollen is a great substitute for fennel seeds. It is sometimes known as “the spice of angels.” Sounds wonderful right? This pollen is collected by hand from wild fennel. It is mostly grown in Italy and California.
Fennel pollen has a strong anise flavor and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Fennel pollen is often used as a seasoning for meats, vegetables and pasta dishes.
Now, fennel pollen can be tricky to find. It is usually found in specialty stores or online. And it comes with a hefty price tag. But it is a great substitute for fennel seeds if you can find it.
6.French Tarragon
Cinnamon sticks are delicious when used in cooking as they impart both sweet and spicy undertones to dishes.
French tarragon is a great substitute for fennel seeds. It has a similar anise flavor, but is more Subtle. French tarragon is commonly used in French cooking, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use it in other recipes.
French tarragon is often used in sauces, salads and soup recipes. But it can also be used to flavor chicken, fish and egg dishes. Like fennel pollen, French tarragon can be tricky to find. But if you have a specialty store nearby or can order it online, it’s worth the effort. Even better is to grow some fresh tarragon right in your herb garden.
7.Licorice Root
Licorice root has a pungent, slightly bitter yet sweet taste that is similar to blend of fennel, tarragon, and anise with a hint of camphor.
Licorice root is a good substitute for fennel seeds. It has a strong anise flavor and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Licorice root is often used in Chinese cooking, so it’s easy to find in most Asian markets.
Because licorice root is very hard, it is best used in sauces, soups, stocks, drinks and other liquids where it can be steeped.
It’s important to note that licorice root can increase your blood pressure. So, if you or someone you love will be eating your food. please keep that in mind.
Final Thoughts on Fennel Substitutes
As you can see, many different items can be used as a substitute for fennel seeds. However, if you’re looking for convenience, stick with anise seeds and caraway seeds. They are easy to find and will give you that fennel like flavor you are looking for. But if you can find it, give French tarragon or licorice root a try!
And don’t forget to share this article with your friends. After all, sharing is caring. Bon appetit!
