White poppy seeds

White poppy seeds Papaver Somniferum) are native to the Middle East and are most commonly used in Indian cooking. The seeds have a nutty flavor which is brought out by lightly toasting. The toasted seeds can be used atop steamed vegetables, rice or noodles. In India the seeds are used as a thickener in curries and also made into a pasted and used as a filling. Look for these seeds in any Indian grocery store, or check your local health food store.

If you don't have white poppy seeds you can substitute black poppy seed, OR substitute unhulled (brown) poppy seeds.