Poppy Seeds

Papaver somniferum Seed, Spice

Poppy Seeds Seed, Spice

At a Glance

  • Category Seed, Spice

The Forktionary Angle

"The ancient seed with a delicate crunch, adding intricate texture and aroma to sweet and savory creations worldwide."

Definition

Tiny, oil-rich seeds from the opium poppy, used as a spice and condiment, offering a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.

Common Culinary Use Baked goods (muffins, bagels, cakes)
Oil Content ~45-50% (by weight)
Storage Tip Store in airtight container in cool, dark place for freshness.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Poppy Seeds are:

Nutty slightly earthy subtly sweet

Chef’s Secret

To maximize flavor, lightly toast poppy seeds in a dry pan until fragrant before incorporating them into dressings or doughs.

Best Substitutes

Sesame Seeds

for texture/crunch
Ratio 1:1

Chia Seeds

for thickening/texture in some recipes
Ratio 1:1

Nigella Seeds

for flavor in savory dishes
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Purchase whole, dark blue-grey seeds from a reputable source. Avoid lighter colored or dusty seeds. Store airtight.

Recipes Using Poppy Seeds

Easy Beginner Cook Salad Dressings Easy

Anne's Poppy Seed Dressing For Fruit Salad

Elevate your fruit salad from ordinary to extraordinary with this vibrant poppy seed dressing! Perfect for special occasions or a weekend brunch, this recipe is a family favorite, guaranteed to impress. Imagine juicy melons, sweet bananas, tangy pineapple, and a medley of fresh berries, all tossed in a creamy, subtly sweet and tangy dressing. This recipe is easy to make and will quickly become your go-to for any fruit salad.

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Healthy Number Of Servings 4 Hours Or Less Low Cholesterol

Bialys

Authentic Polish Bialys: a chewy, slightly sweet, and uniquely dimpled roll. These aren't your average bagels! Learn to make these irresistible treats from scratch, perfect for weekend baking and impressing your friends. Get ready for a taste of Poland!

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Preparation Cuisine Preparation Time To Make

Aloo Poshto Potatoes Recipe

Experience the magic of Aloo Posto, a beloved Bengali classic! This recipe unveils the heavenly combination of creamy potatoes and fragrant poppy seeds. Simple yet incredibly flavorful, this dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Prepare to be amazed by the depth of flavor in this easy-to-make recipe.

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Fruit Vegetables Main Ingredient Dietary

Apple Pear Salad With Lemon Poppy Seed Dressing

A light and refreshing Apple Pear Salad, perfect as a starter or a light lunch! This recipe, adapted from Southern Living magazine (March 2007), is bursting with fresh flavors and a zesty lemon poppy seed dressing. Easy to make in under 15 minutes, it's the ideal healthy and delicious meal option.

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Mixer Equipment Preparation Main Ingredient

Banana Cake With Poppy And Lemon Cream

Indulge in this irresistible Banana Cake, a cherished family recipe from Maman Dion! This moist and flavorful cake is bursting with the sweetness of ripe bananas, the delicate crunch of poppy seeds, and the bright zing of lemon cream. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, this cake freezes beautifully for up to 2 months, making it ideal for meal prepping. Bake it in a loaf pan for easy slicing and toasting – a delicious start to your day!

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Dinner Party Low Fat Course Yeast

Barbari A Persian Bread

Experience the irresistible taste of Barbari, a beloved Persian flatbread! This recipe delivers a perfectly chewy and subtly sweet bread, perfect for breakfast with feta cheese and herbs, jam, or alongside a warm cup of tea. Similar to Armenian matnakash, our Barbari recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. Inspired by a successful home-baking experience with a picky Iranian family, this recipe is your ticket to authentic Persian flavors!

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Course Low Protein Salads Low In Something

Apple And Toasted Pecan Salad With Honey Poppy Seed Dressing

Joan's award-winning Apple & Toasted Pecan Salad is a delightful mix of sweet and savory! This recipe features crisp apples, crunchy toasted pecans, and a luscious honey poppy seed dressing. Easily customizable to your liking, this salad makes a light lunch or a hearty main course with the addition of grilled chicken or other protein. Get ready for a flavor explosion in just 20 minutes!

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Easy Occasion Main Ingredient Time To Make

Awesome Spinach Salad With Poppy Seed Dressing

This vibrant spinach salad is a delightful meal or appetizer, bursting with fresh flavors and a creamy poppy seed dressing that will have you licking your plate! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a sophisticated first course for your next gathering. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Course Comfort Food Refrigerator Low Sodium

Apple Cabbage And Poppy Seed Coleslaw

A vibrant and refreshing twist on classic coleslaw! This recipe features crisp cabbage, juicy apples, and crunchy carrots tossed in a creamy poppy seed dressing with a hint of apple juice. The perfect side dish for any barbecue, potluck, or summer gathering. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Preparation Course Number Of Servings Cakes

Almond Poppy Seed Cake

This irresistible Almond Poppy Seed Bundt Cake is worth breaking your 'no box mix' rule! A buttery, cinnamon-sugar crust adds incredible flavor and texture, making frosting completely unnecessary. This crowd-pleasing cake is incredibly moist and delicious – perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Asian Low Cholesterol Dietary Asian

Asian Barbecue Chicken Salad

Fire up your grill for this incredible Asian Barbecue Chicken Salad, inspired by Camp Robber Cafe in Montrose, CO! This Bon Appetit-approved recipe features juicy grilled chicken slathered in a homemade Asian barbecue sauce, tossed with crunchy croutons, crisp lettuce, and a tangy poppy seed dressing. Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!

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4 Hours Or Less Breads Yeast Time To Make

90 Minute Batter Rolls

These incredibly soft and fluffy batter rolls are a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave warm, yeasty goodness! Adapted from a classic Crisco recipe, these rolls are surprisingly easy to make and deliver amazing results. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these melt-in-your-mouth rolls.

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Breads Easy Northeastern United States Dietary

Apple Poppy Seed Muffins

Say goodbye to lemon poppy seed boredom! This recipe reinvents the classic with a delightful twist: sweet apples and a wholesome boost. We've swapped white flour for a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose, replaced refined sugar with rich brown sugar, and used real eggs for a richer flavor. The result? Moist, tender muffins bursting with the warm spice of cinnamon and the satisfying crunch of poppy seeds. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat! Get ready to experience the ultimate apple poppy seed muffin.

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Occasion Preparation Cheese Occasion

Barb's Little Sandwiches

Indulge in Barb's Little Sandwiches – the perfect appetizer or light meal for your next gathering! These small, marinated sandwiches are bursting with flavor. Inspired by a memorable luncheon, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. While not exactly diet-friendly, they're incredibly delicious and well worth it for special occasions. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-follow recipe.

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Free Of Something Time To Make Salads Preparation

Spinach Cashew Salad

This light and flavorful Spinach Cashew Salad is the perfect low-fat meal or side dish! Packed with fresh spinach, crunchy cashews, and savory bacon, it's a delicious way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying salad without the guilt. We've carefully controlled the fat content, making it a guilt-free pleasure. The homemade poppy seed dressing adds the perfect touch of creamy deliciousness!

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Dietary Fruit Low In Something For Large Groups

Apple Pineapple Salad

This vibrant Apple Pineapple Salad from Taste of Home is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors! Juicy pineapple, crisp apples, and plump grapes create a refreshing taste sensation, perfectly complemented by a creamy, homemade dressing. Easy to make and perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a light summer dessert.

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Main Ingredient Side Dishes Easy American

Cheeeezy Potatoes

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food: Cheeeezy Potatoes! This cheesy, creamy, and utterly irresistible casserole is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. Get ready for a flavor explosion with every bite! Not the healthiest option, but definitely worth the calories.

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