Cumin seeds
Description
Cumin seeds are small, elongated, and brown with delicate lighter stripes, having a warm, aromatic scent and a flavor that combines notes of anise, pepper, and a slightly sweet herbal background. They contain fiber, essential oils (carvone), minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium, as well as small amounts of vitamins, which can support digestion, have antispasmodic and antioxidant effects, and alleviate bloating while improving appetite. In the kitchen, cumin pairs well with bread, cabbage dishes, soups, meats, cheeses, and dairy dishes, as well as spice blends, adding depth and a slightly spicy flavor. Store the seeds in a sealed, dark, and cool place; whole seeds retain their aroma much longer than ground ones, which quickly lose their essential oils and should be used within a short time.