Spice | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free

Cumin

Cuminum cyminum Allergen-Free
cumin

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Apiaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Indian|Mexican|Middle Eastern
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Cumin plant seeds

The Forktionary Angle

"The Ancient Seed: Tracing cumin's global culinary journey."

Definition

An aromatic spice from the dried seed of a plant in the parsley family, known for its warm, earthy, and slightly bitter flavor profile.

Sensory Profile

TasteEarthy, Warm, Pungent, Slightly Bitter
TextureGritty (ground), Hard (whole seed)
AromaEarthy, Musky, Smoky
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Active Compound:

Cuminaldehyde is responsible for its characteristic aroma.

Global Usage:

Essential in Indian, Mexican, and Middle Eastern cuisines.

Storage Tip:

Whole seeds last longer (4 years) than ground (2 years).

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 tsp (2g)
Calories375 kcal
Total Fat22.3 g
Saturated Fat1.5 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein17.8 g
Total Carbohydrate44.2 g
Dietary Fiber10.5 g
Total Sugars2.3 g
Calcium931 mg
Iron66.4 mg
Potassium1788 mg

Chef’s Secret

Toasting whole cumin seeds in a dry pan until fragrant before grinding intensely enhances their flavor and aroma.

Substitutions

Best Match

Coriander

1:1

Offers a similar earthy, warm tone, but is milder and slightly sweeter.

Caraway Seeds

1:1

Stronger, more pungent, and slightly bitter, best for savory dishes like rye bread.

Chili Powder (check ingredients)

1:2 (half the amount)

Many blends contain cumin, but will also add heat and other flavors. Use sparingly.

Curry Powder (check ingredients)

1:1 (or less)

Contains cumin along with other spices, will alter the overall flavor profile.

Buying Guide

Buy whole cumin seeds and grind them as needed for maximum freshness and flavor.

Flavor Pairings

Chili powder Coriander Garlic Ginger Lamb Chicken Legumes Rice

Recipes Using Cumin

Vegetables Vegetarian Dietary Low Cholesterol

Middle Eastern Twice Baked Potatoes

Experience a culinary journey with our Middle Eastern Twice-Baked Potatoes! These aren't your average baked potatoes – we're transforming them into a low-fat, vegetarian delight packed with vibrant Middle Eastern flavors. Creamy mashed potatoes infused with savory chickpeas, aromatic cumin and coriander, zesty garlic, and a touch of tahini create a symphony of taste. Perfect as a side dish with your favorite roasts or Middle Eastern main course, or enjoy them as a light and satisfying vegetarian meal on their own. This improved recipe addresses previous dryness issues for a perfectly moist and flavorful experience.

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Main Dish Main Dish Course

3 Bean Vegetarian Chili

This hearty 3-Bean Vegetarian Chili is bursting with flavor and will quickly become a weeknight favorite! No one will miss the meat in this satisfying and incredibly delicious chili. Perfect for meal prepping, it freezes and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet extraordinary recipe!

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Served Cold Main Ingredient Mexican Equipment

4 Fun Salsa's In One

Dive into a fiesta of flavor with this recipe featuring four incredible salsas: a classic tomato salsa, a smoky chipotle salsa, a vibrant spiked fruity salsa, and a creamy guacamole salsa! Created by a collaborative culinary crew, this recipe is bursting with fresh ingredients and exciting flavor combinations. Perfect for parties, game day, or a fun weeknight dinner, these salsas are versatile enough to enhance any dish.

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Spicy Asian Vegetables Preparation

Achingya Thoren Kerala Style Green Bean Curry

Experience the vibrant flavors of Kerala with this authentic Achingya Thoren! This dry curry features tender green beans, fragrant coconut, and a delightful blend of spices. A perfect side dish for rice or roti, this recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with the aromatic essence of South India. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this simple yet incredibly flavorful Kerala specialty!

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European Course Condiments Etc Time To Make

Ainsley's Barbecue Spice Rub

Elevate your BBQ game with Ainsley's Sizzling BBQ Spice Rub! This incredibly simple yet aromatic blend transforms any meat into a flavor explosion. Perfect for chicken (especially delicious on a George Foreman grill!), this recipe is a quick weeknight winner, even impressing the toughest critics! Get ready for rave reviews – this rub is THAT good.

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Soups Stews Cuisine Time To Make Main Ingredient

Algerian Fish Soup

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Algerian coast with this authentic fish soup recipe! Inspired by a harbor-side restaurant in Algiers, this Chorba is rich, aromatic, and easily customizable to your spice preference. Add extra cayenne pepper for a fiery kick! Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion.

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Ground Beef 4 Hours Or Less Beef Weeknight

Almost Authentic Cincinnati Chili

Satisfy your Cincinnati chili cravings with this adaptable recipe! Inspired by Skyline Chili (but don't tell Nick, he prefers Goldstar!), this version is close enough to home to ease those withdrawal pangs. We've tweaked it for deliciousness, making it perfect for pasta topping and customization. Get ready for a flavorful journey!

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South American 60 Minutes Or Less Fall Main Ingredient

Argentinean Chimichurri Burgers

Experience the fiery tango of Argentinian flavors with these juicy chimichurri burgers! We're not just adding chimichurri – we're tucking it *inside* the patties for a flavor bomb that will leave you craving more. This recipe combines perfectly grilled beef with a vibrant, homemade chimichurri sauce, creating an unforgettable culinary journey.

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Healthy 2 Side Dishes Low In Something Preparation

Arroz Mexicana Mexican Rice

Craveable Arroz Mexicana! This vibrant Mexican rice recipe is a family favorite, transforming picky eaters into rice lovers. Made with fresh corn and peas (when in season!), it's bursting with flavor and far surpasses any boxed version. This recipe features a perfectly balanced blend of spices and tender rice. Get ready for a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine that's quick, easy, and incredibly delicious!

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Course Low Saturated Fat Poultry Chicken

Artichoke Chicken Bake

This Tex-Mex Artichoke Chicken Bake is a flavor explosion! Inspired by a can of artichokes, this easy recipe boasts a creamy, zesty sauce and tender chicken. The perfect weeknight meal, ready in under an hour. Sprinkle with your favorite cheese for extra cheesy goodness! (Note: The recipe is naturally salty; adjust to taste carefully.)

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Canadian Brunch Lettuces Equipment

Asparagus Feta Pumpkin Seed Salad

Brighten your early summer with this vibrant Asparagus Feta Pumpkin Seed Salad! The salty feta cheese dances beautifully with the creamy pumpkin seeds and tender asparagus, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. A satisfying crunch from the seeds perfectly complements the smooth, rich ingredients. This recipe is a delightful and light meal for two – you'll want to devour the whole thing!

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Preparation Chicken Main Ingredient Curries

Authentic Karahi Curry With Base Sauce

Elevate your curry game with this authentic Karahi recipe! Forget jarred sauces – this tried-and-tested recipe uses fresh ingredients to create a depth of flavor that rivals the best Indian restaurants. Spend an hour crafting a curry so rich and aromatic, your family and friends will be begging for more. Learn the secrets to the perfect base sauce and a fragrant spice blend for an unforgettable culinary experience. Serve with warm chapattis or basmati rice.

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Preparation Condiments Etc Low Protein Low Calorie

Avocado Mango Salsa

A vibrant and refreshing Avocado Mango Salsa recipe! Ready in just 10 minutes, this zesty salsa is the perfect side dish for grilled meats, fish, or as a topping for your favorite tortilla chips. Sweet mango and creamy avocado combine for a taste sensation that will elevate your next meal.

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Appetizers 15 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Appetizers

B Nutty Dip Aka Lucky 13 Hummus

This lucky #13 hummus recipe is a protein-packed, lemony, garlicky, and nutty twist on a classic! Made with 13 ingredients (each using amounts of 1 or 3), this dip is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it as a spread on sandwiches, with pita chips, or as a healthy snack with veggies. Prepare for a flavor explosion!

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Main Dish Main Ingredient Dietary Oven

Baked Chicken Legs Mexican Style

Experience a fiesta of flavor with this Baked Chicken Legs Mexican Style recipe! This budget-friendly dish from the Sunset Potluck Cookbook uses inexpensive chicken leg and thigh pieces, coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture with zesty Mexican spices. Perfect for a potluck or a weeknight dinner, these tender, juicy chicken legs are baked to perfection. Serve with your favorite guacamole or a squeeze of lime for a taste of sunshine on a plate!

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Low Protein Main Dish Lunch Low Protein

Baked Falafel Sandwich

Skip the deep fryer and enjoy these healthy, baked falafel sandwiches! This Weight Watchers-inspired recipe delivers amazing flavor without the guilt. Perfectly seasoned chickpea patties are baked to golden perfection, then nestled in pita bread with fresh veggies and a creamy tahini dressing. A quick, easy, and healthier twist on a classic!

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Preparation Stews Main Dish African

Bamya Lamb Or Beef And Okra Stew

Experience the rich and savory flavors of the Mediterranean with this Bamya Lamb or Beef and Okra Stew! Tender lamb or beef slow-cooked to perfection with vibrant okra, fragrant spices, and juicy tomatoes. This hearty and flavorful stew is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Easy to follow instructions ensure a delicious outcome every time!

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