Nigella Seed

What Is Nigella Seed?

Nigella seed (Nigella sativa) is a spice made up of the small, black, angular seeds of a plant from the buttercup family. It is also known by names such as "black cumin" or "kalonji," though it has no botanical relation to cumin.

It has a mildly bitter taste between thyme and cumin, and a woody aroma that becomes more pronounced when toasted. In Turkish cuisine it is most commonly seen on simit (sesame ring), poğaça, and some cheeses.

Nutritional Value of Nigella Seed

This section has been deliberately left blank, as no reliable, detailed nutritional value data based on a single public source could be verified for nigella seed to this encyclopedia's standard. Since the amount used in a recipe (a pinch) is very small, its nutritional contribution is practically negligible; its purpose of use is aroma and appearance.

What Are the Benefits of Nigella Seed?

Nigella seed is a seed that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is today the subject of various research on the plant compound thymoquinone it contains; this research has not yet turned into a definitive health recommendation.

This information is general; nigella seed is a spice, not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Nigella Seed?

Quality nigella seed should be dark black in color, dry, and in loose, non-clumped granules; moist or clumped seeds should be avoided.

• The grain color should be matte black; grayed or pale grains have gone stale.
• A slight scent released when rubbed by hand is a sign of freshness.
• Loose, non-clumped, dry grains should be preferred.

How to Store Nigella Seed?

Nigella seed can be stored for 1-2 years in a closed jar in a cool, dark place. It's important to keep the lid tightly closed so it doesn't absorb moisture.

Using Nigella Seed in the Kitchen

Nigella seed is used for decoration and aroma on top of simit, poğaça, bread, and some cheeses. In some recipes it is also added to salads and yogurt-based appetizers.

How Is Nigella Seed Used on Simit?

The shaped simit dough is moistened and rolled in a mixture of sesame and nigella seeds before going into the oven; as it bakes, the seeds stick to the dough, giving it its characteristic appearance and aroma.

Which Recipes Use Nigella Seed?

Nigella seed is used in simit, poğaça, kaşar-and-nigella-seed bread, and some herbed cheeses; it is also found in some yogurt and salad recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is nigella seed good for?

Nigella seed has traditionally been consumed for digestion and general health; it is a spice and does not claim to cure any disease.

Are nigella seed and cumin the same thing?

No; despite the similarity in their Turkish names, nigella seed (Nigella sativa) and cumin (Cuminum cyminum) are completely different plants, and their taste-scent profiles also differ.

Should nigella seed be toasted?

Toasting is not mandatory, but the seeds' aroma becomes noticeably stronger when lightly toasted in a dry pan for a few minutes.

Are nigella seed oil and the seed itself used the same way?

No; nigella seed oil is generally consumed as a supplement or used externally, while the seed is used directly in cooking and for decoration in the kitchen.

Which breads use nigella seed?

It is most commonly used on simit and some village breads; in some regional recipes it is also added to pide and poğaça doughs.