Nigella seeds, known in Turkish as çörek otu, are small, matte-black seeds with a peppery, slightly bitter and faintly onion-like aroma. This 100 g resealable pouch from Bodrum's Spice Selection range is packed as a 100% natural product, with a zip closure that keeps the seeds fresh between uses.
In Turkish kitchens çörek otu is best known as the finishing touch on simit, pide, açma, poğaça and savoury çörek, where it is sprinkled over the dough before baking. It also works stirred into white cheese, yoghurt dips and cacık, scattered over flatbreads, or added to lentil dishes and salads for a little crunch and warmth. A light toast in a dry pan for a few seconds brings out the aroma, but watch closely as the seeds burn quickly.
Store the pouch tightly closed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and press out the air before sealing so the seeds stay fragrant for longer.