Nigella Sativa

Nigella sativa (black caraway, also known as black cumin, nigella, kalojeera, kalonji or kalanji)

This pretty annual flowering plant is native to south and southwest Asia where it bears finely divided, linear leaves with delicate, starry flowers which are usually coloured pale blue and white, with five to ten petals. The fruit is a large, inflated capsule each containing numerous seeds which is used as a spice throughout the world.|

The seeds have little bouquet, though when they are rubbed they give off an herbaceous aroma that is reminiscent of oregano. The black seeds are used as a spice, slightly bitter and peppery with a crunchy texture, the seeds may be used whole or ground, they are easily crushed in a mortar and pestle.

The seeds are usually fried or roasted before use and like many other spices, nigella develops its flavour best after short toasting in a hot dry pan, or short frying in a little oil. They have a spicy, nutty flavour and can be sprinkled whole or ground up on food, and the oil can also be used on salads and other dishes.

Buy your Black Caraway Seeds with Fontana Seeds for delivery anywhere in Europe.