carom seeds

Carom Seeds

Carom seeds, also known as ajwain, are tiny, oval-shaped seeds with a pungent, thyme-like aroma and a strong, distinctive flavor. They possess a slightly bitter and intensely aromatic profile, often described as a combination of thyme, oregano, and cumin, with a hint of peppery heat. These tan-colored seeds are commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines for their unique taste and digestive properties. When cooked or roasted, carom seeds release their essential oils, intensifying their flavor and aroma, making them a key ingredient in spice blends and traditional dishes. They are frequently used to add flavor and depth to breads, curries, and snacks and are prized for their potential health benefits related to digestion.

Common Uses

  • Carom seeds are frequently toasted or dry-roasted before adding them to dishes to enhance their flavor, and are essential for adding depth to Indian breads like paratha and naan, providing a distinctive aroma and digestive aid.
  • They are used to flavor lentil and bean dishes, helping to reduce bloating and gas, common issues associated with legume consumption by improving digestion.
  • Carom seeds are a key ingredient in many Indian spice blends (masalas), where they contribute a warm, pungent, and aromatic note to curries and stews.
  • They are often added to savory snacks like mathri and namkeen, providing a unique and flavorful twist, as well as potentially aiding digestion after consuming fried foods.
  • Carom seeds are used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for their potential digestive, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties, often consumed as a tea or infused in warm water to relieve bloating, gas and indigestion.
  • They are a suitable substitute for thyme or oregano in savory dishes when toasted lightly to enhance their flavor.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

223.0kcal (11.15%)

Protein

17.7g (35.4%)

Carbs

41.6g (15.13%)

Sugars

0.0g

Healthy Fat

17.6g

Unhealthy Fat

2.3g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • May aid in digestion and reduce bloating.
  • Can help relieve cough and cold symptoms due to its thymol content.
  • Possesses antimicrobial and antifungal properties, contributing to gut health.
  • Contains antioxidants that may help protect against cell damage.
  • May have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially easing pain related to arthritis.
  • Could contribute to lowering cholesterol levels, promoting heart health.

Storage Tips

Carom seeds are best stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. When stored properly, they can maintain their flavor and potency for up to a year. Check for a strong, pungent aroma as an indicator of freshness. Discard if the aroma has faded significantly.

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