Caraway seeds are a versatile spice that adds a distinctive flavor to a variety of dishes. Their slightly sweet, peppery taste with hints of citrus and anise makes them a favorite in many traditional and modern recipes. Now, enjoy some healthy recipes with caraway seeds to inspire your healthy cooking.
Traditional Delicious Recipes with Caraway Seeds
European Cuisine: Caraway seeds are a must in European cooking, particularly in German, Austrian, and Scandinavian cuisines. They are famously used in rye bread, because of their characteristic flavor. Caraway seeds are also a key ingredient in sauerkraut, adding depth to the fermented cabbage. In Hungarian goulash, caraway seeds contribute to the rich, savory flavor of this hearty stew.
Middle Eastern Cuisine: In the Middle East, caraway seeds are used in spice blends like harissa and are often added to pastries and breads. They also use them even in desserts, providing a unique twist to sweet dishes.
Modern Delicious Recipes with Caraway Seeds
Baking: Caraway seeds are a delightful addition to modern baking. They can be used in breads, crackers, and savory muffins. If you like, try adding your caraway seeds to shortbread cookies or scones for a subtle, really unexpected flavor.
Salads and Dressings: Sprinkle caraway seeds over salads for a burst of flavor. They pair particularly well with root vegetables, beets, and cabbage. For a refreshing dressing, mix caraway seeds with yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
Roasted Vegetables: Caraway seeds can elevate the flavor of roasted vegetables. Toss carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a generous sprinkle of caraway seeds before roasting them in the oven.
Caraway Seed Rye Bread
Ingredients:
- 3 cups rye flour
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How-To …
- In a large bowl, combine rye flour, all-purpose flour, caraway seeds, salt, and sugar.
- Dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Let cool before slicing and serving.
Caraway Roasted Carrots
Ingredients:
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How-To …
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the carrot sticks with olive oil, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and lightly browned.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Caraway Seed Salad Dressing
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
How-To …
- In a bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
- Add fresh dill if using, and mix well.
- Drizzle over your favorite salad and toss to combine.
Caraway and Fennel Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- ½ teaspoon salt
How-To …
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the flour, caraway seeds, fennel seeds, and salt, mixing until combined.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a fork.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool on a wire rack before serving.
Caraway seeds can bring a unique and delightful flavor to both traditional and modern dishes. Experiment with these recipes and enjoy the culinary versatility that caraway seeds offer.
Happy Cooking!