Indian Spice Conversion — Whole to Powder
Convert between whole spices and ground/powder form. Get the right spice ratio every time for Indian cooking.
| Spice | Hindi Name | 1 tsp whole = | powder |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cumin seeds | Jeera | ≈ 0.75 tsp | Cumin powder |
| Coriander seeds | Dhania | ≈ 0.75 tsp | Coriander powder |
| Black pepper | Kali mirch | ≈ 0.75 tsp | Black pepper powder |
| Cardamom pods (green) | Elaichi | 6 pods = 1 tsp | Cardamom powder |
| Cloves | Laung | 10 cloves = 3/4 tsp | Clove powder |
| Cinnamon (1 inch) | Dalchini | 1 stick = 1/2 tsp | Cinnamon powder |
| Fennel seeds | Saunf | ≈ 0.8 tsp | Fennel powder |
| Mustard seeds | Rai/Sarson | ≈ 0.9 tsp | Mustard powder |
About this calculator
Convert between whole spices and ground powder. Choose the direction, enter the amount and get an approximate equivalent for Indian cooking.
Spice potency varies by freshness, so treat the ratios as starting points.
How to use it
- Enter the amount.
- Choose whole to ground or ground to whole.
- Read the equivalent and adjust to taste.
Rules of thumb
Ground spices are denser and lose aroma faster, so you generally use less ground spice than whole by volume. A common rule: 1 tsp whole seeds (cumin, coriander) ≈ ¾ tsp ground; 1 whole nutmeg ≈ 2 to 3 tsp ground; 1 inch cinnamon stick ≈ ½ tsp ground; 1 tsp whole black peppercorns ≈ ¾ tsp ground; 1 whole cardamom pod ≈ ⅛ tsp ground seeds; 1 whole clove ≈ ¼ tsp ground. Ground spice is best used within 6 months and whole within 2 years.
Worked example
Approximate equivalents
| 1 tsp cumin seeds | ¾ tsp cumin powder |
| 1 tsp coriander seeds | ¾ tsp coriander powder |
| 1 clove | ¼ tsp ground clove |
| 1 cardamom pod | ⅛ tsp ground |
| 1 inch cinnamon | ½ tsp ground |
Tips and common mistakes
- Dry-roast whole spices lightly before grinding for richer flavour.
- Grind small batches.
- Store in airtight jars away from light and heat.
- Start with less ground spice; add more to taste.
- Check freshness by smell.
Frequently asked questions
Is whole or ground spice stronger?
Ground is more concentrated by volume and loses flavour sooner.
How much ground cumin equals 1 tsp seeds?
About ¾ tsp.
How long do spices last?
Ground 6 months, whole up to 2 years.
Should I roast spices?
A light dry roast improves aroma.
Are ratios exact?
No, they depend on freshness.
Is it free?
Yes.