Cumin Seeds 50g

Cumin Seeds 50g

Cumin seeds come from the Cuminum cyminum plant, a member of the parsley family. They are small, brownish-grey, oval-shaped seeds with a distinctive ridged texture. Cumin seeds have a warm, earthy, and slightly nutty flavour with hints of citrus and pepper. They are widely used in Indian, Middle Eastern, Mexican, and North African cuisines, where they add depth and warmth to dishes.

Flavour Profile:

• Taste: Warm, earthy, slightly sweet, with a hint of citrus bitterness.
• Aroma: Rich, smoky, slightly spicy, and nutty.
• Heat: Mild warmth with a lingering spice.

Common Uses for Cumin Seeds

1. Savoury Dishes:

• Curries and Stews: A staple in Indian, Middle Eastern, and North African cooking.
• Rice and Pilafs: Often fried in oil or butter before adding rice for extra depth.
• Legume-Based Dishes: Enhances lentils, chickpeas, and black beans.
• Vegetable Dishes: Used in roasted potatoes, carrots, and aubergines.
• Meat and Poultry: Found in spice rubs and marinades for lamb, chicken, and beef.

2. Spice Blends:

• Garam Masala: A key ingredient in this Indian spice mix.
• Ras el Hanout: Found in Moroccan spice blends for tagines and couscous.
• Taco Seasoning: Essential for Mexican dishes like fajitas, tacos, and chilli.
• Baharat: A Middle Eastern blend used for seasoning meats and stews.

3. Tempering (Tadka):

• Indian Cooking: Whole cumin seeds are fried in ghee or oil to release their flavour before adding to dal, curries, and soups.
• Spiced Butters and Oils: Used to flavour butter or oil for drizzling over vegetables and meats.

4. Breads and Pastries:

• Spiced Flatbreads: Found in naan, parathas, and Middle Eastern breads.
• Mexican Tortillas: Sometimes included for extra flavour.

5. Pickling and Fermenting:

• Often used in pickled vegetables and chutneys.
• Found in sauerkraut and kimchi variations for depth of flavour.

Health Benefits of Cumin Seeds:

1. Aids Digestion: Stimulates enzyme production, reducing bloating and indigestion.
2. Rich in Antioxidants: Helps fight inflammation and oxidative stress.
3. Boosts Immune System: Has natural antibacterial properties.
4. Regulates Blood Sugar: May help control blood sugar levels.
5. Supports Weight Loss: Can aid metabolism and digestion.