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poppy bloom with seeds
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The dried seed of the opium poppy is used as food, flavoring, and
is the source of poppy-seed oil. Although the botanical name
for the poppy flower means "sleep bearing", poppy seeds have no
narcotic properties because the fluid that is made into opium is
only present in the buds before the seeds are fully formed.
Poppy seed is an ancient spice. Written records mention its
use as a condiment as early as the first century A.D. and seed
capsules have been found in the remains of prehistoric lake
dwellings in Switzerland.
The seeds are small, grayish blue to dark blue in color with a
faint nutlike aroma and a mild, nutty taste especially popular
in breads and other baked goods. Next time you make potato
salad, try adding some poppy seed to the dressing.
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