The dried seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant, a plant related to parsley, are called cumin seeds. These tiny seeds have a brown hue. With a long history, cumin seeds have been valued for their culinary and therapeutic properties. Similar to other seeds, cumin holds onto its flavorful essential oils until it is crushed.
The flavor of cumin seeds is earthy, toasty, with hints of nutty. Some report a little citrus undertone or bitterness. There are strong earthy and somewhat smokey overtones to the powerful fragrance. Since cumin seeds are usually used in conjunction with other spices, some of these flavor characteristics may be brought to light.
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