Cumin (Jeera or Jira)
is usually used both as whole seed
or ground in any
curry dish which makes it one
of the most important of all Indian
spices. Cumin seeds can be either
white or black. Black cumin seed have
slightly more sweeter and delicate
flavor than the white seeds. It gives
a powerful aroma which many people
associate with Indian food. It has
bitter and nutty taste.
Cumin is
an ancient spice which history dates
back to use in Egypt, mentioned in
bible, used by Greeks, references
in middle age Europe. Cumin is also
known to be an appetite stimulant
and believed to ease stomach disorders
such as diarrhea.