Are Niger seeds the same as nigella seeds?
Daniel Martin
Published Jan 08, 2026
The genus name Nigella is a diminutive of the Latin niger 'black', referring to the seed color. The specific epithet sativa means 'cultivated'. In English, N. sativa and its seed are variously called black caraway, black seed, black cumin, fennel flower, nigella, nutmeg flower, Roman coriander, and kalonji.
What are nigella seeds also known as?
Also known as black cumin, nigella or by its scientific name Nigella sativa, kalonji belongs to the buttercup family of flowering plants.What is the same as nigella seeds?
Substitutions. Celery seed, cumin seed, poppy seed, black sesame seed, caraway seed, and fennel seed will all stand in adequately for nigella seed.Are black seed and nigella seeds the same?
What are Black Seeds. The scientific name of black seeds is Nigella sativa. Black seed is also known as fennel flower, black caraway, black cumin and kalonji. It is an annual flowering plant belonging to the family Ranunculaceae.What do Indians call nigella seeds?
Known in India as kalonji or kala jeera, nigella seeds are found in plenty in our kitchens. This spice, native to south and southwest Asia, comes from an annual flowering plant that belongs to the onion family. The flowers are dried and each petal gives a few seeds.Nigella Seeds Vs Niger Seeds | कलोंजी और रामतिल में अंतर | Everyday Life # 250
What can I use instead of nigella seeds?
Substitutes for Nigella SativaIf you're unable to get Nigella Sativa by any of its names (charnushka, black caraway seed, black cumin, kalonji, etc.), you can try a substitute for nigella seeds that will provide a similar flavor and texture: Sesame seeds (nutty flavor) Cumin seeds (nutty and peppery flavor)
What are the tiny black seeds on bread?
Tips from our BakersNigella seeds (known as kalongi in India, where they're widely used) are also called black caraway, onion seed, or charnushka. The amount called for in the recipe seems small, but actually results in a fairly strong taste.