Cummin, also spelled cumin, is an annual flowering plant in the family Apiaceae, native to a region extending from the Middle East to India. Its seeds, which are what we commonly refer to as cumin, are used around the world in cuisines as a spice. The seeds are small, dried, and oblong, and are prized for their distinctive warm, earthy, and slightly bitter flavor profile. Cumin is a key ingredient in many spice blends and dishes, particularly in South Asian, Middle Eastern, and Mexican cuisines, where it is used to add depth and complexity of flavor. It is available in whole and ground forms and often used for medicinal benefits and used in fragrances. It's an extremely versatile spice.
Cummin meaning with examples
- The aroma of cumin filled the air as the lamb tagine simmered slowly on the stove. Cumin added a warming, earthy base to the dish, complemented by the sweetness of the dried apricots and the fragrant saffron. It's a taste of Morocco that transported the diners to the bustling marketplaces.
- She sprinkled a generous amount of ground cumin into the chili, along with cayenne pepper and smoked paprika. The result was a complex and fiery flavor that brought the flavors into balance, perfectly seasoned and warmed the dish in a beautiful way.
- The recipe for the homemade tortillas called for a pinch of ground cumin to enhance the savory nature of the corn. This subtle addition made the tortillas irresistible, providing a pleasant surprise that rounded out each bite, a signature flavor.
- The chef always used whole cumin seeds in the biryani, to give it an extra layer of depth and visual appeal. Once toasted and released, the flavors were incredibly more aromatic, enriching the experience of the dish and captivating the senses.