Onion Seeds (NIgella) Black, 35g

Onion Seeds, Black, 35g

Onion seeds (often referred to as nigella seeds) come from the Nigella sativa plant, which is part of the Ranunculaceae family. Despite their name, nigella seeds are not directly related to onions. Instead, they are small, black, triangular-shaped seeds that have a distinctive flavour profile, often described as a mix of onion, garlic, and oregano.

Nigella seeds are also known by other names, such as black cumin, kalonji, and black seed. These seeds have been used for centuries in Middle Eastern, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisines, as well as in traditional medicine.

Flavour Profile:

• Pungent and Earthy: Nigella seeds have a strong, pungent, and peppery flavour, with hints of onion, oregano, and garlic.
• Slightly Bitter: There is a subtle bitter aftertaste, which can balance out richer, fattier dishes.
• Aromatic: The seeds have a warm, herbaceous aroma, making them a perfect addition to dishes where you want a fragrant spice.

Common Uses for Onion Seeds (Nigella):

1. As a Spice in Cooking:

• Indian Cuisine: Nigella seeds are commonly used in Indian dishes, especially in pickles, curries, dal, and naan breads. They are often added to tempering oil, where they release their flavour into the oil before being added to other ingredients.
• Middle Eastern Cuisine: In Middle Eastern cooking, nigella seeds are used in flatbreads, like pita or manakish. They are sometimes sprinkled on top of the bread before baking, providing a pungent aroma and crunchy texture.
• African Dishes: In certain African cuisines, particularly Moroccan cooking, nigella seeds are used in spiced tagines, stews, and vegetable dishes.
• Seasoning for Vegetables: They pair well with potatoes, carrots, tomatoes, and eggplant. In some dishes, they are used to add depth of flavour when sautéing vegetables or legumes.

2. Pickles and Condiments:

• Pickling: Nigella seeds are a common ingredient in pickles, especially Indian-style pickles. They help add a sharpness and earthy complexity to pickled vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, or mangoes.
• Chutneys & Relishes: They can also be used in chutneys, such as mango chutney, where they lend a slightly bitter, earthy flavour that complements the sweetness of the fruit.

3. In Bread and Baked Goods:

• Flatbreads: As mentioned, nigella seeds are often sprinkled on top of naan, focaccia, or pita bread before baking. They provide an added crunch and flavour to the crust.
• Baked Goods: In addition to bread, nigella seeds can be added to savory pastries or scones to introduce a hint of onion-like warmth.

4. In Oil and Paste Form:

• Nigella Oil: The seeds can be cold-pressed to make nigella oil, which is used both for culinary and medicinal purposes. The oil has a strong flavour and can be drizzled on foods like salads, roasted vegetables, or used in marinades.
• Nigella Paste: In some cultures, nigella seeds are ground into a paste and used as a flavourful base for sauces, stews, and soups.

5. As a Medicinal Herb:

• Traditional Medicine: In traditional medicine, particularly in the Middle East and Asia, nigella seeds have been used for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and digestive properties. They are often taken in small amounts to help with conditions like digestive discomfort, allergies, or respiratory issues.
• Immune System Support: Nigella seeds are often touted for their immune-boosting properties, and some people use them to help combat colds or infections.
• Skin Care: Nigella oil is used in skin-care products due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It can help with eczema, acne, and other skin conditions when applied topically.

6. Garnishing:

• Sprinkling on Dishes: Nigella seeds can be sprinkled on salads, soups, or yogurt for an added crunch and flavour boost. Their earthy and slightly spicy profile complements dairy-based dishes well.
• Smoothies & Juices: A small amount of nigella seeds can be added to smoothies or fresh juices for a nutritional boost.

Health Benefits of Onion Seeds (Nigella):

1. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Nigella seeds are rich in thymoquinone, an active compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help with conditions like arthritis or inflammation.

2. Digestive Aid: Nigella seeds are traditionally used to aid digestion and can help with bloating, gas, and indigestion. They are also believed to promote the secretion of bile, improving fat digestion.

3. Respiratory Health: The seeds are believed to help with respiratory issues like asthma, bronchitis, or coughs due to their anti-inflammatory effects on the airways.

4. Immune Support: Nigella seeds are thought to have immune-boosting properties, helping to support the body's natural defence against infection and illness.

5. Skin Health: Nigella oil is frequently used to improve skin health, including reducing the appearance of acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It also has moisturising properties.

6. Blood Sugar Regulation: Some studies suggest that nigella seeds may help in regulating blood sugar levels, making them a beneficial addition for individuals with diabetes.

Manufacturers and/or packaging may vary from those illustrated.