When it comes to adding depth and complexity to your cooking, few ingredients can rival the aromatic charm of nigella seeds. Also known as black cumin or charnushka, these tiny brown-black seeds have a flavor profile that’s both earthy and slightly bitter, with hints of onion, garlic, and nutmeg. With their unique taste and scent, nigella seeds are an ideal addition to a wide range of dishes, from savory meats and vegetables to sweet baked goods and snacks.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of nigella seeds. From classic flatbreads and roasted vegetable medleys to spicy curries and aromatic dips, these mouthwatering creations are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
Nigelle Seed Flatbread with Herbs
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of nigella seeds with the freshness of herbs to create a unique and aromatic flatbread. Perfect for snacking or as a accompaniment to your favorite soups or salads.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup nigella seeds (black cumin)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add nigella seeds, olive oil, and herbs to the flour mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water, kneading for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide dough into 4-6 portions, depending on desired thickness.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch).
6. Cook flatbreads in a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned and puffed.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Vegetables with Nigelle Spice Blend
Roasted Vegetables with Nigella Spice Blend: Elevate your vegetable game with this flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of roasted veggies with the warm, aromatic spices of Nigella’s blend. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads and bowls.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potatoes)
– 1 tsp Nigella Spice Blend
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, Nigella Spice Blend, and salt until evenly coated.
3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Nigelle Infused Olive Oil Dip
Elevate your snack game with this aromatic and flavorful dip featuring the subtle charm of nigella seeds. Perfect for veggies, crackers, or pita chips, it’s a delightful addition to any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons nigella seeds (black cumin)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, nigella seeds, lemon juice, and garlic.
2. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Allow the mixture to infuse for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply prepare the dip and serve.
Spicy Nigelle Chicken Curry
This aromatic curry recipe combines the warm, earthy flavor of nigella seeds with the spicy kick of red chili flakes, perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal. With minimal prep time and easy cooking instructions, you can enjoy this delicious dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp coriander powder
– 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
– 1/4 tsp nigella seeds
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander powder, red chili flakes, and nigella seeds. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Nigelle Seed Crackers with Cheese
These crispy crackers are infused with the nutty flavor of nigelle seeds and paired with melted cheese for a satisfying snack or accompaniment to your favorite soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup nigelle seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (or other cheese of your choice)
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine flour and nigelle seeds.
3. Add salt and mix well.
4. Gradually add water to form a dough.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes or strips.
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Top each cracker with grated cheese.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crackers are golden brown and cheese is melted.
10. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lentil Soup with Nigelle and Cumin
This comforting lentil soup is infused with the earthy flavors of nigella seeds and the warm, aromatic taste of cumin. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a nutritious lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon nigella seeds
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, and nigella seeds. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add lentils, broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Nigelle Spiced Lamb Kebabs
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these aromatic lamb kebabs infused with the warm, slightly sweet flavors of nigella seeds and a blend of Middle Eastern spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or ground lamb
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons nigella seeds
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together lamb, olive oil, nigella seeds, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and garlic.
3. Thread lamb mixture onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until lamb reaches desired level of doneness.
5. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Nigelle and Honey Glazed Carrots
Sweet and savory, these carrots are perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite salads. The combination of crunchy nigella seeds and sticky honey glaze creates a deliciously balanced flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp (30g) honey
– 1 tsp nigella seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with butter, honey, nigella seeds, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange carrot slices in a single layer.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Nigelle Seed Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the earthy goodness of roasted potatoes with the nutty charm of nigella seeds. Perfect as a side dish or a snack, these roasted spuds will surely become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp nigella seeds (kalonji)
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, nigella seeds, and salt until well coated.
3. Spread the potato mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown, flipping halfway through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Nigelle and Fennel Seed Breadsticks
Elevate your snacking game with the warm, spicy flavors of nigella seeds and fennel seeds in these crunchy breadsticks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon nigella seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast.
2. Add olive oil, lukewarm water, and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a long, thin cylinder.
6. Place breadsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Sprinkle nigella seeds and fennel seeds evenly over the breadsticks.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Nigelle Spiced Rice Pilaf
This recipe combines the warm, comforting flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with the simplicity of a classic pilaf. With the addition of nigella seeds, also known as black cumin, this dish is infused with a unique, slightly bitter and nutty flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon nigella seeds
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and nigella seeds. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add rice and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Add water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed and rice is tender.
7. Fluff with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Nigelle and Garlic Butter Shrimp
Elevate your shrimp game with this flavorful and aromatic dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Nigella’s subtle bitterness pairs beautifully with the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon nigella seeds (black cumin)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in nigella seeds and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add shrimp to the saucepan and toss to coat with the garlicky butter mixture.
5. Transfer the shrimp to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Nigelle Seed Crusted Salmon
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic salmon dish, featuring the nutty and slightly sweet flavor of nigella seeds. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp nigella seeds
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together nigella seeds and salt.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
4. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then sprinkle the nigella seed mixture evenly over each fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon zest (if desired).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Nigelle Infused Yogurt Sauce
Elevate your Mediterranean-inspired dishes with this creamy and aromatic yogurt sauce infused with the subtle flavor of nigella seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons nigella seeds (kalonji or black cumin)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine nigella seeds and 1 tablespoon of hot water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the seeds to soften.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together yogurt, honey, and salt until smooth.
3. Add the softened nigella mixture to the yogurt mixture and stir well.
4. Fold in chopped parsley.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– None required. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nigelle and Coriander Chutney
This aromatic chutney is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, ideal for accompanying Indian dishes like naan, rice, or as a dip. The combination of roasted nigella seeds and coriander adds depth and warmth to this flavorful condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh coriander leaves
– 1/2 cup roasted nigella seeds (see note)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add the roasted nigella seeds, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and red chili powder. Stir well.
3. Add the coriander leaves and 1/4 cup water. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the chutney thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Nigelle Spiced Chickpea Stew
This hearty stew is a flavorful blend of aromatic spices, tender chickpeas, and comforting vegetables, perfect for a cozy evening meal. The warm, slightly sweet flavor of nigella seeds adds depth and complexity to this comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp ground coriander
– 1/4 tsp ground nigella seeds
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, potato, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, coriander, and nigella seeds; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Nigelle Seed and Sesame Cookies
These chewy cookies are infused with the nutty flavors of nigella seeds and sesame, perfect for a sweet treat. With only 6 ingredients, they’re quick to make and require no special equipment.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup nigella seeds
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and oats.
3. Add nigella seeds, sesame seeds, and sugar; mix until well combined.
4. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Nigelle and Lemon Zest Tea Cakes
These tender tea cakes are infused with the warm, spicy flavor of nigella seeds and brightened by the citrusy zing of lemon zest. Perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon nigella seeds
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, nigella seeds, and lemon zest.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cake.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow cakes to cool on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the deliciously aromatic flavors of Nigelle with these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From savory dishes like Spicy Nigelle Chicken Curry and Roasted Vegetables with Nigelle Spice Blend, to sweet treats like Nigelle Seed Crackers with Cheese and Nigelle Seed and Sesame Cookies, there’s something for every taste. Explore the versatility of Nigelle in its many forms, from using it as a spice blend or infused oil, to adding it to breads, soups, and even desserts. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your cooking game with these flavorful recipes!
Leave a Reply