Description

Zeera is the dried fruit of the Cuminum cyminum plant, a member of the parsley family (Apiaceae). Although often called a seed, it is technically a dried fruit. Appearance: The seeds are small, oblong, and slightly curved. They are longitudinally ridged and typically range in color from pale yellow to dark brown. Aroma & Flavor: It possesses a distinct warm, earthy, and slightly bitter flavor with a strong, pungent aroma. Dry roasting the seeds enhances their nutty notes and aroma. Culinary Uses Zeera is incredibly versatile and used in both its whole and ground forms: Whole Seeds: Used for tempering (tadka or chaunk), where they are briefly fried in oil or ghee at the start of cooking to release their flavor. This is a crucial step for many Indian dishes like dal (lentils), curries, and vegetable preparations. Common Dishes: Jeera Rice, Aloo Jeera (cumin potatoes), and various dals. Ground Powder: Ground cumin adds a deeper, consistent flavor and is a key ingredient in many popular spice blends (masalas), such as: Garam Masala Curry Powder Chaat Masala Beverages: Used in traditional drinks like Jal Jeera (a spiced Indian lemonade). Health & Wellness Benefits In traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda, Zeera is highly valued, primarily for its: Digestive Aid: It is well-known for promoting digestion, helping to reduce bloating, gas, and indigestion by stimulating digestive enzymes. Rich in Nutrients: It is a very good source of iron and contains beneficial plant compounds, including antioxidants. Other Benefits: It is also associated with supporting immune health and helping to regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels.