Picked from the large flower heads of the sunflower plant, it has a mild nutty flavour that is often consumed in roasted form or added to bread. The seeds are also used to extract oil that is widely used in cooking. Read more to know the other culinary uses of these sunflower seeds
Nature has gifted us with a vast variety of culinary herbs that not only add aroma and flavour to our food but also have multiple health benefits. Due to this property of herbs, a lot of them are also used for medicinal purposes. Indian cuisine makes use of several herbs in cooking as they give the dish a natural flavour without adding any artificial ingredients. Coriander, fenugreek, mint, ginger and curry leaves are some common herbs used in Indian cooking. But there are other lesser-known herbs as well that are packed with health benefits and provide a distinct flavour to the food. Sunflower seeds, also known as chironji, is one such herb.
Picked from the large flower heads of the sunflower plant, it has a mild nutty flavour that is often consumed in roasted form or added to bread. The seeds are also used to extract oil that is widely used in cooking. They are rich in several nutrients including vitamin E and healthy fats, that help in fighting against inflammation and other chronic diseases. According to Healthline, sunflower seeds help the blood vessels to relax, maintaining a check on the blood pressure, hence good for heart health.
Culinary Uses Of Sunflower Seeds
Apart from being eaten raw and used in the form of oil, sunflower seeds are added to varieties of dishes to enhance the taste and give them a nutty flavour.
Chutney
Sunflower seeds can be added to different varieties of chutney such as mint, coconut, tamarind and tomato. Just add one or two tablespoons of raw or crushed seeds with other ingredients and trust me you won't regret it. It not only enhances the texture and flavour of the chutney but also makes it healthier.
Cakes And Breads
These seeds are a healthy addition to your breads and cakes as they give it a crunchy texture and nutty flavour. It can be added in two ways, either by mixing it with the batter or sprinkling it over the cake or bread before baking.
Used As Sprinkler
Just sprinkle some crushed sunflower seeds over your main course dishes like pasta, chicken curry and mix-vegetables and surprise your family with the unique flavours in the meal. You can also add them to your salads to make your make your food rich in vitamin E.
Smoothies
What can be better than smoothies for a quick and nutrient-rich breakfast? Just blend some sunflower seeds with other ingredients and you are good to go. If you are following a diet, then these seeds are must as they are rich in antioxidants that help in detoxifying the body.
Sunflower Seeds Butter
Following a vegan and gluten-free diet? Make your own butter at home. It’s quick and fuss-free, just roast some sunflower seeds, blend it with powdered sugar and a pinch of salt. Then add a few drops of sunflower oil to make it creamy. It can be stored for a month in an airtight container and you can use it as a spread as well as a dip.
Moreover, here is a lip-smacking recipe of healthy sunflower seeds ladoo for you. It will not only satisfy your taste buds but go well with a healthy diet.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup roasted gram flour
- 1/4 cup powdered jaggery
- A large pinch of salt
- Finely chopped pistachio for garnishing
Method:
- Roast the sunflower seeds till it changes colour lightly. Let it cool for a few minutes.
- In a blender, add the roasted gram flour, sunflower seeds, jaggery and salt.
- Blend it well and transfer to a bowl and shape into balls when the mixture is still warm.
- Garnish with finely chopped pistachios and serve.
- Sunflower seeds are easily available in the market, add them in your cooking and enjoy the flavour and health benefits.
