Cumin Seeds

Cuminum cyminum Spice, Seed

Cumin Seeds Spice, Seed

At a Glance

  • Category Spice, Seed

The Forktionary Angle

"The tiny seed that's a cornerstone of global flavor, from Indian curries to Mexican tacos."

Definition

A dried seed from a flowering plant in the parsley family, known for its distinctive warm, earthy, and slightly bitter flavor, crucial in many global cuisines.

Science: Key Aroma Compound Cuminaldehyde
Storage: Shelf Life 2-3 years (whole), 6-12 months (ground)
Usage: Forms Available Whole and Ground

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Cumin Seeds are:

Earthy warm slightly bitter pungent smoky (when toasted)

Chef’s Secret

Toast whole cumin seeds in a dry pan until fragrant before grinding to intensify their flavor and release their essential oils.

Best Substitutes

Ground Coriander

less bitter
Ratio 1:1

Chili Powder

adds heat
Ratio 1:1

Caraway Seeds

different flavor profile
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Purchase whole seeds and grind as needed for freshest flavor. Store in an airtight container away from light.

Recipes Using Cumin Seeds

Chicken Breasts Meat Poultry 30 Minutes Or Less

Balti Chicken Khara Masala

Experience a flavor explosion with our Balti Chicken Khara Masala! This vibrant curry bursts with the aromatic warmth of whole spices, creating a rich and satisfying dish ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this easy wok-fried chicken curry is a delicious shortcut to restaurant-quality flavor. Impress your family and friends with this incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make recipe!

See Complete Recipe
Course Vegetarian Preparation Course

Beetroot Rice

Experience the vibrant flavors of India with this easy-to-make Beetroot Rice recipe! This popular Indian dish is incredibly versatile – enjoy it plain, or elevate it with additions like chopped tomatoes, fresh mint, and crunchy cashews. Our recipe offers a simple, flavorful base, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a delicious side dish.

See Complete Recipe
Cuisine Beef Main Dish Asian

Beef Vindaloo The Real Thing

Experience the fiery heat and aromatic explosion of authentic Beef Vindaloo! This low-fat, healthier take on a classic Goan curry uses white wine vinegar and a touch of sugar for a surprisingly balanced flavor profile. A perfect blend of spices, expertly ground (using a grinder, blender, or mortar and pestle), creates a rich and complex taste that will leave you wanting more. Pair this culinary masterpiece with a crisp lager for the ultimate dining experience. Get ready for a flavor adventure!

See Complete Recipe
Indian Indian Vegetables Asian

Aloo Gobi Mattar

Experience the vibrant flavors of India with this delicious Aloo Gobi Mattar recipe! A simple yet satisfying adaptation of a classic, this dish features tender potatoes, cauliflower, and peas simmered in a fragrant blend of spices. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe is easily customizable to your spice preference and dietary needs. Enjoy the rich, creamy texture and aromatic spices that will transport your taste buds to India!

See Complete Recipe
Cuisine Taste Mood Canadian Stove Top

Basic Boiled Shrimp

Elevate your seafood game with this easy-to-follow recipe for perfectly cooked shrimp, ideal for dipping in your favorite cocktail sauce. Tender, juicy shrimp in just minutes! This basic recipe is a must-have for any seafood lover.

See Complete Recipe
Main Ingredient Side Dishes Easy Dinner Party

Baked Carrots With Cumin Thyme Butter And Chardonnay

Jamie Oliver's Food Network recipe for unbelievably tender baked carrots! Cumin, thyme, and a rich Chardonnay butter sauce create a flavor explosion. This easy, one-pan wonder cooks in a foil pouch for effortless cleanup. Perfect as a side dish or a light vegetarian meal. Easily adaptable – use whole carrots instead of baby carrots!

See Complete Recipe
Preparation 4 Hours Or Less Preparation Time To Make

Aloo Rasdar Indian Potato In Gravy Ala Rukshana

A fiery and flavorful Indian potato curry recipe, passed down from a dear friend! This Aloo Rasdar boasts a vibrant, tangy taste thanks to the addition of dried mango powder (optional, but highly recommended!). Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this recipe is surprisingly simple yet delivers a complex depth of flavor. Adjust the chili to your spice preference – be warned, it packs a punch! Discover an authentic taste of India with this easy-to-follow recipe, perfect for both experienced cooks and adventurous beginners.

See Complete Recipe
Preparation Time To Make Technique 60 Minutes Or Less

Afghan Style Chicken Murgh

Experience the legendary flavors of Delhi's Karim Restaurant with this incredible Afghan Style Chicken Murgh! Despite its name, this recipe hails from India and boasts tender, juicy chicken marinated in a vibrant yogurt-based blend of aromatic spices. Get ready for a taste sensation – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. (Note: Allow 4-6 hours for yogurt straining and marinating.)

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less Asian Cuisine

Aviyal

Indulge in the authentic flavors of Kerala with this irresistible Aviyal recipe! A quintessential part of the traditional Sadya feast, this creamy vegetable stew combines the goodness of coconut, yogurt (or tamarind!), and an array of fresh vegetables. Whether you prefer the tangy south Kerala style with tamarind or the creamy north Kerala version with yogurt, this Aviyal is guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. Learn how to make this simple yet elegant dish, perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal. Serve it hot with steamed rice for a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

See Complete Recipe
Vegetables Savory Crock Pot Slow Cooker Equipment

Beef With Cauliflower Crock Pot

This incredibly flavorful and healthy Beef with Cauliflower Crock Pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights! Tender beef and tender-crisp cauliflower simmer in a rich and aromatic sauce, creating a low-calorie, low-fat masterpiece. Skip the rice and enjoy it as is, topped with a dollop of sour cream (or Greek yogurt and cilantro for a lighter option) for a satisfying and comforting meal. Adapted from The Healthy Slow Cooker.

See Complete Recipe
Number Of Servings Time To Make Main Dish Preparation

Authentic Indian Chicken Curry

Unlock the secrets to a vibrant, flavorful Indian chicken curry! This fresca, saucy recipe is a family heirloom, passed down through generations. Unlike other generic curries, this recipe delivers a burst of authentic Indian spices and tender chicken, perfect for a weeknight meal. Serve with fluffy white rice or fragrant basmati for a truly unforgettable experience. Omit the butter for a healthier twist, without sacrificing any deliciousness! Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe.

See Complete Recipe
Cuisine African Course South African

Shrimp Curry

Escape the chill with this vibrant Shrimp Curry! A fragrant blend of warming spices creates a rich, flavorful sauce that's just the right amount of heat. Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests, this recipe allows you to make the curry sauce ahead of time, adding fresh shrimp just before serving for ultimate convenience and delicious results. Get ready for a taste of paradise!

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less Indian Number Of Servings

Aloo Palak Indian Potatoes Spinach

This vibrant Aloo Palak recipe, inspired by daawat.com, delivers a delightful blend of tender potatoes and spinach in a rich, flavorful sauce. Perfect as a hearty main course for two with naan or rice, or a delicious side dish for four. Easily customizable to your spice preference – deseed the chilies for a milder curry. Get ready to experience the authentic taste of India in just 30 minutes!

See Complete Recipe
Course Main Dish Main Dish Chicken Cuisine

Balti Chicken Pasanda

Experience the fiery delight of Balti Chicken Pasanda! This authentic recipe, inspired by Northern Pakistani cuisine, delivers a rich and flavorful curry bursting with aromatic spices. Tender chicken simmers in a creamy sauce, perfectly balanced with fragrant ginger, garlic, and warming chilies. Cooked in a traditional Balti pot (or a large skillet), this dish is a culinary adventure you won't forget. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, serve it with naan bread and basmati rice for a truly immersive experience. Get ready for a taste sensation!

See Complete Recipe
Main Ingredient Indian Spicy Course

Mixed Vegetables With Jaipuri Spices

Transport your taste buds to the aromatic north of Rajasthan with this vibrant Mixed Vegetable recipe! This milder, fragrant dish, traditionally served during Diwali (the Festival of Lights), is a delightful side to chicken or a satisfying vegetarian main course with naan or rice. Experience the authentic flavors of Jaipur in this easy-to-follow recipe.

See Complete Recipe
Stove Top Lactose Main Ingredient Healthy

Aloo Gobi Cauliflower And Potatoes

Experience the magic of Aloo Gobi, a classic Indian dish! This recipe delivers tender potatoes and cauliflower in a fragrant and flavorful curry sauce. Easy to follow instructions and readily available ingredients make this a perfect weeknight meal for the whole family. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!

See Complete Recipe
60 Minutes Or Less Preparation Main Dish Vegetarian

Aloo Gobi

Recreate the magic of Bend It Like Beckham with this vibrant and flavorful Aloo Gobi recipe! This authentic Indian curry features tender potatoes and cauliflower simmered in a rich blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers incredible taste.

See Complete Recipe
Vegetarian Stove Top Squash Occasion

Aubergine Eggplant And Chickpea Curry In Minted Tomato Cream

Indulge in this mild yet flavorful creamy eggplant curry! This recipe, adapted from "classic curries," features tender aubergine, hearty chickpeas, and a vibrant minted tomato cream sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Get ready for a taste of creamy comfort!

See Complete Recipe