Cumin

Instructions

1. 1

   Also called comino , this ancient spice dates back to the Old Testament.

2. 2

   Shaped like a caraway seed, cumin is the dried fruit of a plant in the parsley family.

3. 3

   Its aromatic, nutty-flavored seeds come in three colors: amber (the most widely available), white and black (both found in Asian markets).

4. 4

   White cumin seed is interchangeable with amber, but the black seed has a more complex, peppery flavor.

5. 5

   Cumin is available in seed and ground forms.

6. 6

   As with all seeds, herbs and spices, it should be stored in a cool, dark place for no more than 6 months.

7. 7

   Cumin is particularly popular in Middle Eastern, Asian and Mediterranean cooking.

8. 8

   Among other things, it's used to make curries, chili powders and Kummel Liqueur.