Black Seed Oil

What Is Black Seed Oil (Çörek Otu Yağı)?

Black seed oil is a sharp, spicy vegetable oil obtained by cold-pressing the seeds of black cumin (Nigella sativa). Also known as black seed or "black love seed," this seed's oil is traditionally used in very small amounts.

Its aroma is intense, slightly bitter, and spicy; so it is used in the kitchen not as a cooking oil but as an aroma/complementary product added drop by drop. In traditional use, it is mixed with honey or yogurt.

Nutritional Values of Black Seed Oil

Like all pure oils, black seed oil contains about 884 kcal of energy and 100% fat per 100 g; its calories come entirely from fat. Compounds such as thymoquinone give it its characteristic aroma; however, since it is used in very small amounts, its caloric contribution is practically low.

What Are the Benefits of Black Seed Oil?

Black seed and its oil have been traditionally used across many cultures; research on its compounds is ongoing, but these findings have not turned into a definitive health recommendation. It is a product used in small amounts, for aroma purposes.

This information is general; black seed oil is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment. Those who are pregnant/breastfeeding or on regular medication are advised to consult a doctor before consumption.

How to Choose Black Seed Oil

Good-quality black seed oil should be cold-pressed, in a dark glass bottle, and sharp-fresh smelling; it should be stated as food-grade (edible). A rancid, paint-like smell indicates spoilage.

• Should be cold-pressed, in a dark glass bottle, and food-grade
• Smell should be sharp but fresh; a rancid, paint-like smell indicates spoilage
• Buying a small bottle and consuming it quickly preserves freshness

How to Store Black Seed Oil

Black seed oil is stored for a few months in a dark bottle, in a cool, dark place; light and heat negatively affect its aroma and durability, so it should be kept closed and cool.

Using Black Seed Oil in Cooking

Black seed oil is used drop by drop in cold applications: mixed with honey or yogurt, added in a few drops to salads and soups, or mixed into spreads for bread. Since it is sharp, it is used in moderation.

How Is Black Seed Oil with Honey Used?

A few drops of black seed oil are mixed with a dessertspoon of honey to prepare a traditional mixture; this is a culinary/traditional use, not a medical treatment.

How Is It Added to Food?

A few drops are added to cooked soup, salad, and mezes at serving time to add a sharp, spicy aroma; it is preferred to be used without exposure to heat.

Which Recipes Use Black Seed Oil?

Honey mixtures, yogurt-based sauces, drops over salad and soup, and bread spreads are the best-known uses of black seed oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is black seed oil used in cooking?

Yes, but not as a cooking oil; since it is very sharp, it is used drop by drop, cold, for aroma purposes.

How much black seed oil should be consumed?

It is a sharp product and traditionally consumed in very small amounts (a few drops); those who are pregnant or on medication are advised to consult a doctor.

What is the difference between black seed oil and black seed itself?

The seed is a spice sprinkled on bread and pastries, while its oil is a much more concentrated, aromatic liquid form of the seed, used drop by drop.

Is black seed oil heated?

It is generally used cold, without heating; since heat can spoil both its aroma and delicate compounds, it is not recommended as a cooking oil.

How is black seed oil stored?

In a dark bottle, in a cool, dark place; it should be kept away from light and heat, and a small bottle should be bought and consumed quickly.