How to Roast Flaxseeds

Roasted flaxseeds are high in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and contain the nutritional content of most grains. Flaxseeds, both raw and roasted, are available at health food stores and can even be found in some grocery stores. Roasting the raw seed at home can save money, and it's simple to do. Roasting at home also gives the flaxseed a fresher flavor.

Things You'll Need

• Raw flaxseeds Heavy, flat-bottomed skillet Wooden spoon

Instructions

1. Heat a heavy, flat-bottomed skillet over medium high heat until very hot. A cast-iron skillet works well for this process.

2. Pour in 1 cup raw flaxseeds.

3. Stir the seeds in the skillet constantly until the seeds turn a uniform golden brown. This should take from 3 to 5 minutes.

4. Pour the roasted flaxseeds into a heat-safe container or bowl and stir until cool.

Tips & Warnings

• Flaxseeds are low in carbohydrates making them a great addition to a low-carb diet. Roasted flaxseeds can be ground in a spice grinder or coffee grinder, and sprinkled over yogurt, cereal or fruits for a nutty taste. To take advantage of the phytochemicals in flaxseeds, they must be ground. Otherwise, the seed just passes through the digestive system without releasing these chemicals. Roasted flaxseeds can be ground to a meal- or flour-like consistency and used in bread making. Substitute up to a cup of the flaxseed powder or meal for 1 cup flour in the bread recipe.

• Raw or roasted flaxseeds should be kept in the refrigerator to prevent them from becoming rancid. When you begin eating flaxseeds, start with small amounts. Flaxseeds are high in fiber and can cause bloating, cramping and even diarrhea to those not used to high fiber in their diet.

Resources

• Flax Seed Benefits