General Description
Cumin is the pale green seed of Cuminum cyminum, a small herb in the parsley family. The seed is uniformly elliptical and deeply furrowed.
Geographical Sources
Cumin originated in Iran and India.
Traditional Ethnic Uses
Cumin is frequently used in Mexican dishes such as chili con carne and hot tamales.
Taste and Aroma
Cumin has a distinctive, slightly bitter yet warm flavor.
History/Region of Origin
An ancient spice, Cumin is native to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea and Egypt. Currently grown in many places, as it is rather easy to grow and adapts well to many climates. Cumin is one of the ancient spices, a favorite of the Romans and it is mentioned in the Old Testament. During medieval times, it was favored in Europe and Britain, but it seems to have gradually lost favor to those places. The increasing popularity of Mexican influenced foods is boosting the sale of Cumin.
