Nigella seeds - Black Cumin

What is black cumin?

\n

It is in Egypt, in the delta of the Nile, that is produced the nigella that I propose you today. The nigella seed is used as a flavouring and adds complexity to your cooking. Very appreciated, as well for its taste as for its virtues, it is not known of all, it is the moment for me to present it to you. The nigella is a herbaceous plant cultivated since antiquity. If we find it today in Egyptian plantations, this plant is native to Asia. Cultivated as an ornamental species, nigella produces seeds that are perfect for use in your kitchen among other spices. The nigella is mentioned in the capitulary of Villis, this famous legislative act which contains a list of plants that Charlemagne wanted to be cultivated in the royal domains. Quoted in the Bible, the black cumin is then promoted by the prophet of Islam in the 7th to the rank of plant capable of curing all diseases. There are different kinds of black cumin, namely nigella sativa, nigella damascena or nigella arvensis. Do not confuse them, the second one is a toxic flower. The nigella seed that I propose to you, which is also called black cumin, comes from the nigella sativa. Today, it is mainly in the Arabic kitchen that we find the nigella seed. However, it tends to be democratized in the West and is increasingly consumed by lovers of spices and aromatics.

\n

What is the flavor of black cumin seeds?

\n

The nigella in seed is a very particular spice. Its flavor is quite strong, pungent, which requires a fairly precise dosage in your kitchen. We discover peppery, fruity and lemony notes that make all the difference in a dish.

\n

The harvest of the black cumin

\n

The nigella is a very pretty plant with blue flowers (even pink or white). After flowering, they give way to capsules that contain the famous seeds of black cumin. The harvest is quite simple, you just have to cut the stems on which the capsules are located. Then, it is necessary to dry them, not too quickly however, better to avoid a full sun. On the other hand, the seeds of nigella must dry in the open air and benefit from a humid environment, they will be ideally installed under an open shed. Each capsule contains many small seeds whose shape is triangular. It is while maturing that they are dressed in their black dress.

\n

How to use black cumin seeds in cooking?

\n

The nigella seed is widely used in Arabic cuisine, although it can also find its place in our Western cuisines. Its taste both strong and fragrant brings a real plus to your dishes, whether you use it as seeds or you use a mill to obtain a nigella powder. I have chosen to sell you the nigella seeds in order to leave you free to choose the way you will incorporate it in your cooking. Good to know: you can roast your seeds before grinding them to increase their flavor and facilitate the grinding. To do this, simply place them in a frying pan over high heat for a few minutes, making sure to stir constantly. This will avoid an unpleasant burnt taste that would spoil the effectiveness of your nigella in your preparations. Be sure to dose your nigella well because of its imposing taste

\n

Our ideas of recipes with nigella seeds

\n

The starter: the tzatziki with black cumin seed

\n

Ideal for a fresh starter or as an appetizer, tzatziki is a preparation made from cucumber and Greek yogurt. To these two basic ingredients, add garlic, onion, lemon juice and salt. Nigella seeds or powder will add that little extra kick that makes all the difference.

\n

The dish: chicken with nigella

\n

You want to change the traditional flavors and get away from the roasted chicken of Sunday lunch? Offer your guests a black cumin chicken. Cook chicken thighs in a pot with onion, saffron, cinnamon and ginger to blend the flavors and make a real taste journey. Add nigella seeds for a very tasty dish, no need to add pepper.

\n

Dessert: a lemon cake with nigella seeds

\n

Lemon goes perfectly with black cumin. Be daring and prepare a cake with a lemon cream on which you will sprinkle nigella seeds. It\'s surprising and good at the same time, your guests will love it.

\n

The virtues for the health of the black cumin

\n

The black cumin, beyond its gustatory qualities, is a plant with multiple properties. In internal or external use, it has many virtues.

\n

The conservation of black cumin seeds

\n

The seed of black cumin, like many spices and condiments, will be stored preferably in a dry place away from light and moisture.