CUMIN
CUMINUM CYMINUM
IN THE CIRCLE OF GREED, we meet the hoarders and wasters, the souls who thought of nothing but money. Native to the Nile valley, the seeds of this spiced herb were used, in ancient Egypt, as currency for paying taxes, a use which gave it an association with greed and meanness.
FOLKLORE - Cumin makes an appearance in both the Old and New Testaments and has even been found in in archeological excavations across Egypt, as it was often used in Egyptian burials.
BENEFITS - The list of benefits attributed to this little seed is extensive. It is high in fiber and vitamin E, as well as rich in fatty acids that can help with digestion. It can help your body regulate blood sugar levels and assist it in maintaining a healthy cholesterol.
USES - Cumin has become one of the most widespread spices and it has penetrated the cuisine of every culture that it has reached, which can be surprising considering its high value, but its peppery flavour made it an affordable substitute to the even more expensive black pepper.
Cumin has a warm, earthy flavor and aroma which shares both sweetness and bitterness, making it a great complement to many sauces and curries.