1 Tsp Whole Dill Seed contains approximately 9 calories. Dill is a herb that belongs to parsley family and has been used for medicinal and culinary purposes for centuries. With its unique flavour profile, dill seed is a popular ingredient in many dishes, especially in Scandinavian and Eastern European cuisine. In this article, we will discuss the nutritional benefits of dill seed, its culinary uses, health benefits and much more.

Dill seed is a good source of fiber, calcium, iron, and magnesium. It also contains small amounts of vitamin A, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and zinc. These vitamins and minerals offer numerous health benefits to the body, such as improving the immune and cardiovascular systems, promoting healthy digestion and supporting bone health.

In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies on how to incorporate dill seed in your daily diet to maximize its nutritional benefits and flavour. Whether you're a food enthusiast or health-conscious individual, this article has something for everyone.

Calories in Dill Seed

One teaspoon of whole dill seed contains approximately 9 calories, making it a low-calorie ingredient to use in your dishes. When compared to other spices, dill seed has a relatively lower calorie count, making it a great choice for those who want to control their calorie intake while still enjoying flavourful dishes. However, it's essential to remember that the calorie count may vary based on the quantity of dill seed used in the recipe. Adding other ingredients to the dish can also increase the calorie count significantly. So, it's important to keep an eye on the portion size to maintain a healthy calorie intake while using dill seed in your cooking.

Dill Seed Nutritional Facts

Dill seed is packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential for maintaining good health. One teaspoon of dill seed contains around 6% of the daily recommended amount of calcium, iron, and magnesium. It also contains small amounts of vitamin A, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and zinc. These nutrients offer numerous health benefits such as improving digestion, strengthening the immune system, and promoting healthy bone and teeth growth. Dill seed is also rich in fiber, which helps in digestion and promotes regular bowel movement. Incorporating dill seed in your regular diet can help you meet your daily vitamin and mineral requirements while adding flavour to your dishes.

Health Benefits of Dill Seed

Dill seed has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as digestive issues, respiratory problems, and menstrual cramps. Scientific studies have also shown that dill seed possesses various health benefits, including: 1. Digestive Health: Dill seed has been shown to stimulate digestive enzymes, which helps in the breakdown of food and promotes smooth digestion. It also acts as a natural laxative, which helps in relieving constipation and promoting regular bowel movement. 2. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Dill seed contains compounds that possess anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation in the body and improve overall health. It may also help in reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

Dill Seed for Digestive Health

Dill seed has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various digestive issues such as bloating, gas, indigestion, and stomach cramps. It contains compounds that stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, which helps in the smooth breakdown of food and ensures better absorption of nutrients. It also acts as a natural laxative, promoting regular bowel movement and relieving constipation. Dill seed tea is an effective remedy for treating digestive issues and promoting overall digestive health. To make dill seed tea, boil 1-2 teaspoons of dill seeds in a cup of water for 5-7 minutes and strain. Add a teaspoon of honey for sweetness and drink it warm. Incorporating dill seed in your regular diet can also provide relief from various digestive issues, making it a valuable ingredient in your kitchen.

Dill Seed Recipes

Dill seed has a unique flavour profile, which makes it a valuable ingredient in various dishes. It adds a distinctive flavour to pickles, soups, stews, and salads. Here are some popular recipes that use dill seed as a primary ingredient: 1. Dill Pickles: Dill seed is widely used in making traditional dill pickles. To make dill pickles, add fresh dill weed and 1-2 teaspoons of whole dill seed in a jar filled with cucumbers, vinegar, and spices. Leave it for a few days to ferment and enjoy the tangy flavour. 2. Potato Salad: Dill seed adds a unique flavour to potato salads. Mix boiled potatoes, chopped onions, mayo, yogurt, dill seed, and salt in a bowl and serve chilled. It's a perfect side dish for summer barbeques and picnics.

Dill Seed as a Spice

Dill seed is a popular spice used in various cuisines worldwide. It adds a distinct flavour to dishes, and the aroma of dill seed is known to stimulate the appetite. Besides adding flavour to dishes, dill seed is also used for various medicinal purposes. Dill seed is used in various spice blends such as the Indian spice blend, panch phoron and the Scandinavian spice blend, aquavit. It's also used in making flavoured oils, vinegars, and salad dressings. Incorporating dill seed in your cooking can take the flavour of your dishes to the next level while providing numerous health benefits.

How to Store Dill Seed

Dill seed should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry, and dark place. Exposure to light, heat, and moisture can cause the dill seed to lose its flavour and aroma. Whole dill seed can last up to two years when stored correctly, while ground dill seed lasts for up to six months. It's best to buy whole seeds and grind them as needed to retain the flavour. Storing dill seed correctly can ensure that it lasts for a more extended period, and you can enjoy its flavour in your dishes for a long time.

Dill Seed vs Dill Weed

Dill seed and dill weed are two different parts of the same plant, and they have different culinary uses. Dill weed is the leaves of the plant, while dill seed is the matured part of the plant, which is used as a spice in various dishes. Dill weed has a fresh, aromatic flavour and is used in salads, soups, and stews, while dill seed has a slightly bitter, earthy, and warm flavour and is used as a spice in pickling, fish dishes, and condiments. While both dill seed and dill weed come from the same plant, they have distinct flavour profiles and different culinary uses.

Culinary Uses of Dill Seed

Dill seed is a versatile spice that adds a unique flavour to dishes. It's widely used in pickling, fish dishes, stews, and soups. Dill seed can also be added to spice blends, salad dressings, and flavoured oils. Dill seed is a popular ingredient in Scandinavian and Eastern European cuisine, where it's used in making aquavit and various fish dishes. It's also a primary ingredient in making traditional dill pickles. Dill seed can take your dishes to the next level, and It's a valuable ingredient in your kitchen that offers numerous health benefits and flavour.

History of Dill Seed

Dill is an ancient herb that has been used for thousands of years for culinary and medicinal purposes. It's believed to have originated in Eastern Europe and Western Asia and was widely used in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Dill was considered a symbol of vitality and was used as an aphrodisiac in ancient Greek and Roman cultures. In the Middle Ages, dill was used to fight witchcraft, and was also believed to ward off evil spirits. It was also used to treat numerous ailments such as headaches, digestive issues, and respiratory problems. Today, dill seed is widely used in various cuisines worldwide, and its unique flavour and numerous health benefits make it a popular ingredient in various dishes.