Alternative to Nigella Seeds

Nigella seeds are small black seeds with a crunchy texture that bring an oniony, sour taste to a dish according to Nigella Lawson, author of "Feast Food To Celebrate Life." They're also known as black cumin seeds. Nigella seeds are about the size of sesame seeds. The seeds appear often in East Indian Cooking. Their flavour is enhanced by heating or baking. Look for them in speciality and ethnic markets. If your recipe calls for them and you've run out there are a few substitutes.

Substitute equal amounts of celery seeds as the recipe calls for nigella seeds. Add in about half as much onion powder and a squeeze of lemon juice. This mixture has the crunch from the celery seeds along with the sour onion taste.

Sesame seeds do not taste like nigella seeds but, if the reason you're using the nigella seeds is because of their colour, then substituting black sesame seeds will work. Use equal amounts.

Cumin is the pulverised form of coriander seeds. When planted, coriander seeds grow into a plant also known as cilantro. It's three spices in one, with three different tastes. Cumin has a more intense flavour than coriander. Coriander, when toasted, has an intriguing, nutty flavour balanced by a bite of acid. Cilantro has a bright-green, herb flavour favoured in Southwestern dishes. The cumin powder is closest to the nigella seeds for flavour.

Grate an onion, strain and use the juice in place of nigella seeds. If short on time, place the onion in a blender on the liquefy setting and use the pulp.