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Cumin

By , About.com Guide

Arabic Name and Pronunciation: Kamoon, pronunciation is kam-oon
Origin: Cumin is native to Egypt, however it is cultivated in many countries today.
Taste: Cumin is a very strong spice. Use it sparingly. It is tangy and spicy.
Buying Cumin: Cumin can be be purchased in seed form or ground. It can be confused with caraway, but cumin is lighter in color, with a reddish brown color. Seeds must be toasted before grinding to bring out flavor.
Storing Cumin: Cumin in whole or ground form nust be kept in an airtight container in a cool dry place.
Uses: In Middle Eastern cooking, cumin is used in many side dishes, meats, and salads.

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