Tag: Seed varieties

Sesame seeds have been cultivated for thousands of years and are known for their nutty flavor and rich oil content. But while the creamy-white seeds are a common garnish, many wonder what's the difference between sesame seeds and black sesame seeds, and if the distinction matters. The answer lies primarily in whether the seed retains its outer hull, which profoundly affects its taste, texture, and nutritional profile.

While many people use the term interchangeably, Magaj Dana is not exclusively watermelon seed. This popular ingredient in South Asian cooking can refer to seeds from watermelon, but more often, it describes a mix of various melon seeds known as 'Char Magaz'.

According to the USDA, a single 1-ounce serving of sunflower seeds contains nearly 50% of your daily value for Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant. The question is, are big sunflower seeds healthy, or does their size affect their nutritional value? The short answer is yes, they are, but their healthfulness depends on how they are prepared and consumed.

A single ounce of chia seeds delivers nearly 10 grams of dietary fiber, accounting for up to 40% of an adult's daily needs. But beyond this impressive statistic, many people wonder: are all chia seeds equal? The simple answer is no, as factors like variety, growing conditions, and processing affect their final quality.

Did you know that not all pumpkin seeds are created equal? While the seeds you scoop from your jack-o'-lantern come with a tough, fibrous shell, some special varieties grow naturally shell-free, and these are known as pepitas.

Packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc, pumpkin seeds are a dietitian-recommended superfood. However, whether you choose convenient, shell-less pepitas or hearty, whole pumpkin seeds will depend on your culinary plans and nutritional priorities.

While most people are familiar with the white hulled sesame seeds commonly found on buns, unhulled varieties contain significantly more calcium, iron, and fiber. A single teaspoon of unhulled sesame seeds can have eight times more calcium than its hulled counterpart. Is it better to eat hulled or unhulled sesame seeds based on your specific dietary needs and culinary goals?