Indian cuisine is incomplete without spices. With over 50 spices of its very own, India is indeed a land of spices. But in this rich mix, some spices do not get the attention they deserve. One such overlooked spice is dill seeds.

Chances are, you’ve spotted these seeds on your kitchen rack, and wondered, ‘What exactly do I do with these?’. Well, you’re not alone. They are not flashy. They are not trendy. But they have been quietly flavouring curries and calming digestion for generations.

Whether you grew up with them in your Dadi and Nani’s tadka or only know them from your favourite pickle recipe, dill seeds’ benefits are more than many know.

Let’s talk about what makes them so special beyond that occasional crunch in your pickle.

First Things First: What Are Dill Seeds?

Don’t confuse them with dill leaves (those feathery greens you often see on top of soups). Dill seeds are the dried fruit of the dill plant. They are tiny, flat, and brown with faint stripes and carry a warm, slightly bitter taste that reminds some people of caraway seeds (shah jeera) or carom seeds (ajwain).

In Indian households, they are often known as suva dana and are used sparingly. Just a pinch of these can bring a deep, earthy aroma to oils, stews, and pickles.

Dill Seeds Benefits: More Than Just Flavour

Yes, they are flavourful, but they also come loaded with some seriously impressive goodness.

1. Supports Digestion

Dill seeds have been popular in Indian households for their digestive properties. Traditionally, they were used to relieve bloating, indigestion, and gas. Drinking dill seed tea or simply chewing the seeds after a meal is an age-old remedy to ease stomach discomfort.

2. Natural Remedy for Colic

Dill seeds have been used for centuries as a natural treatment for colic in infants. Even today, many households use dill water to calm colicky babies. Their calming effect on the digestive tract makes them a gentle and effective solution. It is baby-approved, seriously.

3. Rich in Antioxidants

These seeds contain flavonoids, tannins, and other compounds with antioxidant properties. That means they help your body fight off oxidative stress, support healthy ageing, and keep things running smoothly inside.

4. May Help Regulate Sugar Levels

Some early research hints that dill seeds can assist in maintaining blood sugar levels. While more studies are needed to confirm this fully, incorporating them into meals could be a wise move for those managing their blood sugar naturally.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Potential

Dill seeds contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects. Whether used in food or brewed into a warm infusion, dill seeds may help reduce inflammation and contribute to joint and tissue health.

Dill Seed Uses: Spice Up Your Kitchen

If your only memory of dill is the strong whiff from a pickle jar, there is a whole new world waiting for you. Here are a few dill seed uses that will make you want to reach for that dill seed jar more often:

1. Tadka Time

In Indian cooking, dill seeds are often added to hot oil along with mustard seeds, cumin, or curry leaves to form a flavour base for dals, curries, and sabzis. You can smell the aroma as soon as the seeds crackle in hot oil.

2. Pickling (Of Course)

Yes, dill seeds are a staple in pickling blends. Their robust flavour complements mustard oil, vinegar, garlic, and other whole spices to create bold, tangy, and flavourful pickles. Carrots, radishes, mangoes – in fact, almost every pickle gets its aromatic kick, thanks to dill seeds.

3. DIY Herbal Teas

Just simmer a teaspoon of seeds in water for a few minutes or until it comes to a boil, strain, and sip. This herbal infusion is earthy, calming, and the perfect drink after a meal, which is also great for digestion.

4. Baking

If you like trying new things, this should be on your list. Though not as common, dill seeds can be used in breads and savoury pastries for a slightly bitter, earthy note. Think of it as ajwain cookies that your parents love to have with their evening tea.

5. Chutneys and Spice Blends

Grind dill seeds into a powder and blend with other spices like coriander, cumin, and fennel to create your own masala mix. They pair beautifully in dry chutneys or as an alternative to chaat masala.

Quick Tips: Buying & Storing Dill Seeds

• Buy whole, not powdered. The flavour stays fresher, and you can crush them as needed.
• Store in a cool, dark place in an airtight jar. This will help retain their potency for up to a year.
• Lightly toast before use to release the oil and amplify flavour and fragrance.

Should You Be Using Dill Seeds?

Absolutely, if you:

• Love bold, earthy spices
• Want natural digestive support
• Enjoy experimenting with traditional ingredients
• Are curious about global flavour pairings

…then dill seeds deserve a spot in your spice routine.

Small Seeds, Big Impact

In a world of trending superfoods and fancy powders, dill seeds are delightfully old-school. They may not have always been the star of your spice world, but once you cook with them, you’ll understand why they have stood the test of time.

So, the next time you reach for the cumin, give dill seeds a try. And, if someone asks, ‘What are dill seeds?’, you’ll know exactly what to say and maybe even share a recipe or two.

Need a place to start? Urban Platter Dill Seeds offer quality and freshness you can count on. Perfect for your next tadka or herbal tea.