Cumin Seeds

What is cumin in seeds?

Cumin is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family, which also includes parsley, coriander, caraway and chervil. It comes to us from the Near East, it is besides in Syria that is produced the cumin in seeds that I propose you here. Also called white cumin, Moroccan cumin or false anise, it should not be confused with meadow cumin which is none other than caraway and black cumin whose seed is distinguished by its black color and its greater length. Cumin seems to have originated in the Nile valley, traces of its use have been found in Egypt 5,000 years ago for its medicinal properties. The Hebrews used cumin to pay their church dues, while in the Middle Ages serfs used it as a currency to free themselves. In ancient Rome, cumin was hidden as it was highly prized by explorers. In India, women smoked green cumin to get high. Cumin has thus crossed the centuries and the borders by occupying various functions. Today, our cumin seeds are simply present in our kitchens, even if we still recognize its virtues for health and well-being. Since the Middle Ages, its gustatory qualities and its ability to add another dimension to a recipe have been recognized.

What is the flavor of cumin seeds?

Between sweetness and bitterness, the cumin seed develops beautiful aromatic notes in the mouth which are not without reminding the fennel with its aniseed side. Isn't it also called false anise?

Harvesting cumin seeds

Cumin is an annual plant whose height reaches only 30 cm. It likes a Mediterranean climate and appreciates the not very wet grounds. This umbelliferous plant produces pods, which are harvested as soon as they turn brown. The stems are cut and hung to be dried in a ventilated place. While drying, the stem simply releases the seeds which will fall by themselves. Simply shake the stem to remove the last remaining seeds.

How to use cumin seeds?

Cumin seeds will become a real ally in your kitchen. Haven't you thought about using it yet? We will remedy that by giving you some ideas. Cumin seeds can be used in many recipes. Its sweet aniseed flavor works wonders from appetizer to dessert. The Romans themselves used it in their olive oil while the Dutch put it in their cheese, you may have already had the chance to taste a Gouda with cumin, it is delicious. The whole world appreciates the cumin seed for its flavors. North Africans, Mexicans and Indians regularly use it in their soups, meat dishes and pastries.

Our recipe ideas with cumin seeds

The starter: Quiche with Munster cheese and cumin

Since cumin goes perfectly with cheese as the Dutch taught us, let's try a delicious Munster and cumin pie. You can add leeks or endive to bring a little bit of vegetable to this colorful recipe.

The dish: Shrimp curry with cumin

Prepare a delicious shrimp curry with coconut milk, Greek yogurt, curry powder, ginger and turmeric. In the middle of cooking, add cumin seeds that will bring a fresh and aniseed taste that will perfectly match this dish.

Dessert: Spicy chocolate mousse with cumin seeds

For your dessert, I suggest a delicious chocolate mousse, but not a mousse like you are used to eating. This time, I invite you to add some nutmeg, coriander and cumin seeds. All these spices will be added in small quantities so as not to completely alter this dessert. For a perfect balance, choose a dark chocolate.

The conservation of cumin seeds

Cumin seeds should be stored in an opaque container away from moisture.