Mountain cumin

Mountain cumin, scientifically known as Cuminum cyminum, is a herbaceous plant that thrives in the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas. Renowned for its distinct aroma and flavor, mountain cumin is often used as a key spice in various culinary traditions, especially in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines. The plant features slender stems and delicate, feathery leaves, with small white or light purple flowers that bloom in clusters. Its seeds, which have a warm, earthy flavor with a hint of citrus, are highly valued not only for their culinary uses but also for their medicinal properties, believed to aid digestion and boost immunity. Harvesting mountain cumin is a painstaking process, as it requires careful collection to preserve the fragile seeds. As global interest in unique and traditional spices rises, mountain cumin is gaining recognition, bringing the rich flavors of the mountains to kitchens around the world.