Often disregarded, melon seeds are a culinary treasure that food enthusiasts and home cooks should not miss out experimenting with. These are tiny flat seeds packed with essential nutrients, protein, good fats, vitamins and much more. They may be present in various melons like cantaloupes, watermelons or honey dew and have been utilised for ages in traditional cuisines. Their mineral content is high and the flesh of the seed is tasteful and has nice nutty notes that makes it a great addition to many recipes. . These highly versatile seeds are making a comeback into many modern kitchens, either as a snack, having been roasted, or ground into flour for use in baking.
Nutritional Profile
These little powerhouses are an excellent addition to any diet as they are a great source of essential nutrients. Since melon seeds contain all nine necessary amino acids (arginine, aspartic acid, and glutamic acid are contained in high amounts), they are a great source of protein. Further, they contain a high proportion of healthy fats great for heart and brain, including omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. Minerals and vitamins are abundant in melon seeds. It indicates that they contain a lot of magnesium, which is necessary for the production of energy and the strength of bones. The seeds also contain iron, which is required for oxygen transport and Zinc, essential in the immune system. They also contain a moderate amount of vitamin E which is an antioxidant that protects the cells.
Traditional Culinary Uses
For generations, melon seeds have been a staple in traditional cuisines in numerous regions of the world. Watermelon seeds that have been roasted and salted, called as "bizer," is a common snack in Middle Eastern and North African cuisines. They are typically eaten as a street food or as a snack at social events. Usually, the seeds are dry-roasted and seasoned with salt; occasionally, they are also seasoned with cumin or chilli powder. Melon seeds, which represent fertility and abundance, are a customary snack during the Lunar New Year festivities in China. The melon seeds popularly referred to as egusi seeds are widely used in areas of West African, particularly Nigeria. When mashed into a paste, they give soups and stews thick, rich, nutty flavour and creamy texture. These small bits make up the main part of the well-known Egusi soup, a tasty and healthy dish. Muskmelon seeds, or "char magaz," are combined with other seeds that are thought to have therapeutic qualities to make a refreshing summertime beverage in Indian cooking.
Also read: Kachri: The Wild Melon Used In North Indian Cooking; Read More
Modern day Culinary Uses
Uses in Snacking
Snacking on melon seeds is one of the easiest and most common ways to use them in cooking. Melon seeds are a great substitute for traditional snacks like chips or nuts since roasting them brings out their nutty flavour and adds a pleasing crunch. Roasted melon seeds are not only tasty but nutritious as well. That is why you should include them to constantly replenish your energy for the entire day.
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Uses in Toppings and Garnishes
The ability to use melon seeds as garnishes and toppings is another creative use for them. Toss salads with melon seeds, either roasted or raw, for a delightful crunch and nutritious boost. They make an amazing contrast to softer components and go very well with leafy greens.
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Melon seeds can also be put on soups and stews to make them better and look nice. It intensifies the savoury foods’ tastes while neither overwhelming them nor impinging on their flavours. In Asian cooking, seeds of melon are used as garnishing to rice dishes and noodle soups to bring the extra flavour and nutrients.
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Uses in Sauces and Dips
Melon seeds can be used to dips and sauces in addition to being used as garnishes. Making melon seed pesto is one application that is widely used. This takes a classic favourite and gives it a distinctive twist by using melon seeds instead of pine nuts or walnuts in traditional pesto. The dish's earthy, nutty undertones from the melon seeds add a new level of flavour that goes well with bread, pasta, or grilled veggies. This pesto is very convenient for making in advance and then using for several days since it does not thicken or spoil in the refrigerator.
Melon seeds are another adaptation that can be found in hummus recipes. Just add or replace the tahini with pureed melon seeds to give this well-loved dip a delicious variation. In addition to being healthy, melon seeds improve the texture of hummus. Enjoy it as a spread on sandwiches or with fresh cut vegetables and Pita chips. Melon seed hummus's distinct flavour and texture offer a welcome variation that will surprise both family and friends.
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There’s nothing like the taste of melon seeds in the recipes, though their richness in vitamins helps one maintain a healthy lifestyle. Despite being small seeds, it allows you to enjoy interesting meals while at the same time being filling. So go ahead and try cooking with melon seeds; their lovely crunch and sweetness will boost your cuisine!