Nigella Seed
Nigella Seed
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Description
Description
Botanical Name: Nigella sativa
Nigella seed, also known as kalonji, black onion seed or black cumin, is a small matte black seed with a striking aroma and flavour unlike any other spice. Indigenous to regions spanning Southern Europe, North Africa and Southwest Asia, nigella has long been woven into everyday cooking across Middle Eastern, North Indian and South Asian cuisines.
Spice Zen’s Certified Organic Nigella Seeds are carefully sourced, and quality checked to preserve their natural aroma and texture. When lightly crushed or toasted, the seeds release a pungent fragrance reminiscent of oregano, black pepper and onion, followed by a dry, nutty bitterness that lingers gently on the palate.
Their ability to cut through richness makes them especially valued in legume dishes, flatbreads and vegetable preparations.
Flavour & Aroma Profile
Pungent and aromatic with notes of onion, oregano and black pepper, followed by a dry, nutty bitterness and gentle warmth.
How to Use
- Temper ½ teaspoon in hot oil until lightly crackling, then add to curries, dals or vegetables.
- Sprinkle ¼ teaspoon over flatbreads before baking
- Add ½ to 1 teaspoon to 500 g vegetables before roasting
- Mix ¼ teaspoon into yoghurt or raita
- Fold ½ teaspoon into pickles or chutneys
- Lightly crush before use to release more aroma
Start modestly. Nigella has a distinct, slightly bitter, savoury character that deepens when warmed in oil.
Perfect For
- Indian and Middle Eastern cooking
- Tempering oils for dals and sabzi
- Flatbreads and savoury baking
- Pickles and chutneys
- Those exploring traditional Ayurvedic pantry ingredients
Wellness Note
In Middle Eastern and South Asian food traditions, nigella seeds are valued for their distinctive bitterness, aromatic complexity and appreciated for bringing balance, digestive warmth and depth to meals. In Ayurveda, they are culturally described as warming and stimulating and often included in foods prepared during cooler seasons.
Presentation & Storage
Packed in a biodegradable, resealable stand-up brown paper pouch. Store in a cool, dry place away from light to preserve aroma.
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
Recipe Inspirations & Pairings
Recipe Inspirations & Pairings
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WHY CERTIFIED ORGANIC?
Certified organic ingredients are grown naturally, without synthetic chemicals or pesticides and handled with care from source to shelf. Independent certification gives you confidence that we meet strict organic standards and maintains its integrity throughout the journey.
THE SPICE ZEN Difference
Gluten free across our entire range.
Produced and packed in a dedicated gluten free facility.
Independently tested and endorsed by Coeliac Australia.
Premium certified organic ingredients; wildcrafted Australian natives.
No fillers, preservatives, flavourings or extracts.
Small-batch production for Freshness & Integrity.
Small family-owned business
Crafted carefully to meet dietary requirements.
Guided by respect for people, traditions and the environment.
