Cumin has a distinct, fragrant scent and flavor. Used raw or toasted, you’ll often find seeds or powder in mole recipes. The color of the seeds range from a pale gold tone to an amber color. They have a long and narrow shape like a grain of rice. When toasted, the seeds release an intense fragrance. Because the flavor is so strong, use this spice sparingly.
Other names for cumin:
- Cumino in Spanish
Where to find it:
You can buy whole cumin seeds or powder in the spice section of your local grocery store. It really depends on the way you use the spice. If you prefer a toasted flavor, it is best to buy the whole seeds. However, if you buy whole seeds, you can always use a spice grinder to grind the seeds into a powder.