Cumin

Cuminum cyminum Spice

Cumin Spice

At a Glance

  • Category Spice

The Forktionary Angle

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

Definition

An aromatic spice derived from the dried seed of a flowering plant, known for its warm, earthy, and slightly bitter flavor.

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).

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Cumin are:

Warm earthy pungent slightly bitter smoky

Chef’s Secret

Toast whole cumin seeds in a dry pan until fragrant before grinding. This deepens their flavor profile dramatically, transforming them from merely earthy to intensely aromatic and nutty.

Best Substitutes

Ground Coriander

different flavor but similar earthiness
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

For maximum flavor, buy whole cumin seeds and grind them yourself just before use. Look for a strong, distinct aroma.

Recipes Using Cumin

Healthy 2 Low Fat Time To Make Easy

Baked Spicy French Fries Ww Core

Crispy, spicy, and totally guilt-free! These baked French fries are even better than the deep-fried versions. Made with a secret blend of spices, they're perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside – without all the unhealthy fat. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's both healthy and delicious! Perfect for Weight Watchers.

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Soups Stews Occasion Fall Meat

Bean Potato And Sauerkraut Soup

Warm up from the inside out with this comforting bean, potato, and sauerkraut soup! Perfect for chilly days, this recipe is easily adaptable to vegetarian diets by omitting the prosciutto. A rich and flavorful broth, hearty potatoes, and tangy sauerkraut combine for a truly satisfying meal. This recipe is inspired by a classic Northeastern comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in.

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30 Minutes Or Less Beef Equipment Main Dish

Adobo Steak

Unlock the flavor of this incredible Adobo Steak recipe! Our mouthwatering marinade transforms tough cuts of meat into incredibly tender and flavorful grilled masterpieces. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers restaurant-quality results. Get ready for juicy, savory perfection!

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African Cuisine Easy Beginner Cook

Beef Vegetables

Transform tough steak into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece with this flavorful Moroccan-inspired stew! Accidentally bought a tougher cut? No problem! This recipe uses a long, slow simmering technique to tenderize the beef, resulting in a rich and aromatic dish bursting with tender vegetables. Served over fluffy rice or couscous, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Shellfish Time To Make Main Ingredient Seafood

Mauritian Prawn Curry

Escape to the tropics with this vibrant Mauritian Prawn Curry, inspired by Nigella Lawson's 'Forever Summer'. This fragrant and flavorful dish bursts with the exotic spices of turmeric, coriander, cumin, and chilli, perfectly complementing succulent prawns in a rich tomato-based sauce. Easy to follow instructions guide you to a delicious and authentic Mauritian culinary experience. Impress your family and friends with this stunning dish!

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Beans Low In Something Taste Mood Low Sodium

Aubergine Eggplant Assanta

Discover the rich culinary heritage of Thessaloniki with this adapted recipe from Theodore Kyriakou's 'Real Greek Food'! This flavorful Aubergine Eggplant Assanta, a staple in the Greek Jewish community, is perfect as part of a meze spread or a satisfying vegetarian main course. Tender chickpeas simmered to perfection are combined with roasted eggplant, fragrant garlic, and warming spices, creating a dish bursting with Mediterranean sunshine. Prepare to be transported to the vibrant streets of Thessaloniki with each bite!

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Course Ground Beef Pasta Rice And Grains Occasion

Best Ever Meatballs In Tomato Sauce

Juicy, flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich, aromatic tomato sauce. Perfect over spaghetti, couscous, or mashed potatoes! These light yet savory meatballs are also surprisingly delicious served in a toasted sub roll. A family-favorite recipe you'll make again and again!

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4 Hours Or Less Lunch Course 4 Hours Or Less

Armenian Pizza Lahmajoun

Experience the delicious flavors of Armenia with this easy-to-make individual Lahmajoun! This recipe transforms simple tortillas into crispy, savory mini-pizzas topped with a flavorful ground meat mixture. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun family activity, these Lahmajoun are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them plain with a squeeze of lemon, or elevate them with melted jack and cheddar cheese, lettuce, and tomato – taco-style! They're so good, your family will devour them! Plus, they freeze beautifully for a quick after-school snack. Get ready for a culinary adventure!

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Beans Black Beans Grains 4 Hours Or Less

Barley Black Bean And Corn Burritos

This crowd-pleasing recipe, adapted from a slow cooker magazine favorite, delivers a hearty and flavorful meal with minimal effort! Skip the burrito rolling and create a customizable burrito bowl bar for a fun and interactive dining experience. Tender barley, savory black beans, and sweet corn combine in a delicious slow-cooked base. Easily adjust the calories by using light sour cream, cheese, and tortillas. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings! (Cilantro optional)

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Ground Beef Main Dish Time To Make Occasion

Best All American Chili

This hearty and flavorful All-American Chili recipe, featured in this Sunday's paper, is surprisingly easy to make! Get ready to enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of chili perfect for a chilly evening or game day. This recipe is quick, simple, and delivers big on taste.

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Taste Mood Savory Course 3 Steps Or Less

7 Can Soup

Spice up your weeknight with this ridiculously easy 7-Can Spicy Taco Soup! Packed with bold taco flavors, this recipe is ready in under 15 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights. Minimal prep and maximum flavor!

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Time To Make Low In Something Meat Number Of Servings

Beef And Bean Burrito Filling

This zesty beef and bean burrito filling recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor! Perfect for classic burritos, vibrant taco salads, or as a delicious base for your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes. Customize it with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream for a truly unforgettable meal. Get ready to savor every bite!

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Vegetables Easy Oamc Freezer Make Ahead Appetizers

Always Gone Taco Dip

This legendary taco dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! My coworker's secret recipe became my signature dish – and it'll become yours too. Prepare for rave reviews every time you bring this irresistible, customizable dip to parties and gatherings. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable with your favorite toppings, this taco dip is the ultimate game-day snack or party appetizer.

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Low Cholesterol Beef Low Cholesterol Ground Beef

Baked Chili

Elevate your chili game with this incredible Baked Chili recipe! Inspired by a treasured magazine find, this recipe transforms classic chili into a bubbly, cheesy casserole topped with fluffy cornmeal biscuits. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day! Get ready for a hearty and satisfying meal the whole family will crave.

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Chili Presentation Course Number Of Servings

Best Chili Ever

Rachael Ray's award-winning chili recipe! This isn't your grandma's chili – it's a flavor explosion with unexpected ingredients that will leave you craving more. The secret? Fennel seed, ground cinnamon, and unsweetened cocoa powder create a depth of flavor unlike anything you've ever tasted. This recipe is incredibly versatile: make it on the stovetop or slow cook it in your crockpot for an effortless, all-day simmer. Serve with your favorite toppings and prepare for rave reviews!

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Low In Something Low Carb Low Saturated Fat Meat

Benji's Jamaican Curry Chicken

Transport your taste buds to Caribana with this incredibly easy Jamaican Curry Chicken recipe! Bursting with authentic flavors and a rich, thick sauce, this dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Ready in under 90 minutes, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Low Carb Casseroles 60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make

Beef Tamale Casserole

Skip the fuss, not the flavor! This easy Beef Tamale Casserole is a delicious alternative to traditional tamales. Baked in a casserole dish, it's like one giant, comforting tamale. We've swapped bell peppers for diced green chilies for a zesty kick—a happy accident that elevated this recipe to 'muy bueno!' Get ready for a hearty, cheesy, and unbelievably satisfying meal.

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Preparation Vegetables Main Ingredient Cuisine

Tasty Avocado Corn Salsa

Spice up your next gathering with this vibrant and delicious Avocado Corn Salsa! A teacher's potluck favorite, this recipe is bursting with fresh corn flavor and creamy avocado. Easy to make in just 30 minutes, it's the perfect side dish for tacos, chips, grilled chicken, or fish. Get ready for rave reviews!

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