Feeling squeamish? Take cumin with your bread or wine, prescribes Pliny. Cumin is also supposed to induce pallid complexion, and Pliny tells of students to took cumin to achieve that “studious” look. This herbaceous annual is native to Egypt, but long ago spread to Mediterranean shores and is now cultivated worldwide. Cumin resembles caraway in appearance and taste – but it is more bitter. Widely used in Mexican chili powders and Indian curries, it can also be added to breads, cookies, rice, and creamed dishes for an interesting variation on the more familiar caraway flavor. Used for strengthening the digestion, cumin relieves flatulence and abdominal cramping.
No comments:
Post a Comment