Tag: Ramtil

Niger seeds, while most commonly known in North America as bird feed, have a rich history in global cuisine, particularly in Ethiopia, India, and Nepal. These small black seeds, also called 'ramtil' in India, are prized for their versatility and nuanced flavor. The flavor of niger seeds is predominantly nutty, mild, and sometimes compared to a milder version of sesame or sunflower seeds.

Over 3 million smallholders in Ethiopia and India are involved in the production of niger seeds. However, for many, the tiny black seeds are simply known as a specialized bird food for finches. This versatile seed, also called nyjer, ramtil, or kahrale, has a rich history of human consumption and offers a surprising array of culinary, health, and gardening applications.