Top 7 Poppy Seed Substitutes for Baking and Cooking

Poppy seeds are a tiny but mighty ingredient, adding a pleasant crunch and a mild, nutty flavor to many recipes. But what if you’ve run out of them? Don't worry, there are plenty of great alternatives available right in your pantry. Let’s explore some top substitutes you can use when you're in a pinch!

1. Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds are one of the easiest substitutes for poppy seeds. They have a similar small size and crunchy texture, making them a great swap in almost any recipe. They bring a mild, nutty taste that works well in both sweet and savory dishes.

How to use: Replace poppy seeds with an equal amount of sesame seeds. Perfect for sprinkling on bread, bagels, or using in baked goods.

2. Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are another tiny seed that can step in when you’re out of poppy seeds. While chia seeds are a bit larger, they have a neutral flavor and a nice crunch. They may absorb some liquid in your recipes, but they’ll still do the trick for many dishes.

How to use: Use chia seeds as a 1:1 substitute for poppy seeds. They work well in smoothies, salads, and even baked goods.

3. Flax Seeds

Flax seeds offer a bit more robust flavor than poppy seeds, with a slightly earthier taste. They’re also larger in size, but they can still provide the crunchy texture you’re looking for.

How to use: You can use whole or ground flax seeds in place of poppy seeds, using a 1:1 ratio. They work especially well in breads, muffins, or sprinkled over breakfast dishes.

4. Hemp Seeds

Hemp seeds are another good substitute that mimics the size and texture of poppy seeds. They have a soft crunch and a mild, nutty flavor that fits well in a wide range of dishes.

How to use: Use hemp seeds in a 1:1 ratio as a poppy seed replacement. They're great in everything from baked goods to salads and smoothies.

5. Nigella Seeds (Black Cumin)

Nigella seeds, sometimes called black cumin, can be a great poppy seed substitute, especially in savory recipes. They have a bold, peppery flavor, so they’ll add a bit more personality to your dish than poppy seeds.

How to use: Swap poppy seeds for nigella seeds in a 1:1 ratio. Just be aware that nigella seeds are more flavorful, so they’re ideal for breads, salads, or spice blends.

6. Mustard Seeds

For savory dishes, mustard seeds can make a surprising but effective substitute. While they’re not ideal for sweet recipes, their crunch and slight spiciness can work well in many savory contexts.

How to use: Start with half the amount of mustard seeds and adjust to taste, as they’re more intense in flavor. They’re great in salads, dressings, and Indian-inspired dishes.

7. Amaranth Seeds

Amaranth seeds are tiny, crunchy, and make an excellent replacement for poppy seeds in many dishes. They have a mild taste and work well in both sweet and savory recipes.

How to use: Use a 1:1 ratio of amaranth seeds for poppy seeds. Sprinkle them on salads, add to baked goods, or use them as a topping for your favorite dishes.

To Summarize, Don’t let running out of poppy seeds stop you from completing your recipe! Whether you choose sesame, chia, flax, or any of the other seeds on this list, you’ll still get that crunch and flavor that poppy seeds offer. Try one of these alternatives and keep your dish on track.

FAQs: Substitutes for Poppy Seeds

What can I use instead of poppy seeds in baking?

The best alternatives include sesame seeds, chia seeds, and flax seeds. Each offers a similar crunch and mild flavor, making them great for baking, especially in muffins, breads, and cakes​.

Can I use chia seeds as a poppy seed substitute?

Yes, chia seeds work well as a substitute. They have a similar size and texture, though they absorb more liquid, so you may need to adjust the liquid content of your recipe​.

Are sesame seeds a good replacement for poppy seeds?

Sesame seeds, both black and white, are one of the closest substitutes. They provide a nutty flavor and similar crunch, making them ideal for both sweet and savory dishes​.

Can I use mustard seeds instead of poppy seeds?

Mustard seeds can be a suitable substitute in savory dishes due to their small size and crunchy texture, though they have a slightly spicier flavor​.

Are nigella seeds and poppy seeds the same?

No, nigella seeds (also called black cumin) are different, but they can be used as a substitute in savory dishes. They offer a bolder, peppery flavor​.