Tiny sunflower seeds are packed with a cholesterol-free source of healthy polyunsaturated fats, minerals and vitamins. This concentrated source of energy was consumed by Native Americans for generations. You can find raw sunflower seeds either in the shells or hulled at farmer's markets, health food stores and on the Internet. When you roast the sunflower seeds at home, you get to choose the flavor and intensity of spices. Like bread, the seeds taste best freshly made. This flavor cannot be replicated by packaged sunflower seeds, which grow stale over time. Adapt the seasonings based on your personal preferences to make this snack your new favorite.
Combine the raw, hulled sunflower seeds with the soy sauce, cumin powder and chile powder in a skillet over medium-low heat.
Toast the seeds for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring the entire time.
Transfer the seeds to paper towels to cool for 10 minutes.
Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Heat the oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit.
Spread the raw sunflower seeds in the shells in a single layer in a baking pan.
Roast the seeds in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 to 40 minutes or until the shells become crisp.
Toss the warm seeds with the melted butter or vegetable oil and seasoned salt or popcorn seasoning to taste.
Cool the seeds on paper towels before eating. Bite into a sunflower seed to break the shell. Spit out the shell and eat the seed.