Whole Black Poppy Seeds

Small, slate blue in color, these kidney-shaped poppy seeds provide a pleasing crunch and a nutlike flavor. Poppy seeds are used to season crackers, rolls, breads and bagels, in addition to cakes and cookies. Bring out the nutty flavor by toasting or baking the poppy seeds. Toss them into a salad or shake them into a salad dressing. Or, make poppy seed butter and serve it on rice, noodles, fish or vegetables.