Also called Kala Jeera this is a more rare form of cumin. Black Cumin is more subtle than brown cumin, the seeds are sweeter, smaller and have a more delicate taste. The first flavour is small, then it grows to a smokey black flavour like lapsang suchong. The after taste is slightly bitter with nuances of citrus and aniseed.
Black Cumin is used in many Indian curries and tandooris. To bring out the nutty flavour, the seeds are best toasted slightly before use.
Bunium persicum or black cumin is a plant in the family Apiaceae. It is used as a common culinary spice in Northern India, Tajikistan and Iran but outside these areas use is rare. There is a common confusion between Bunium persicum and Nigella Sativa which is also commonly called Kala Jeera and used predominantly in Bengali cookery. You can buy Nigella Sativa or Kalwonji here.
Black Cumin was discovered in Tutankhamen's tomb, implying that it played an important role in ancient Egyptian practices. Black Cumin's role in Egyptian culture is not fully understood, but it is known that items entombed that items placed in a kings tomb were selected as important for use in the afterlife. The earliest known reference to black cumin is in the Book of Isiah in the Old Testament where Isiah compares the differences between reaping wheat and black cumin.
When ingested, black cumin seeds and extracts can be used for a number of conditions. They have been used for centuries to treat digestive problems including stomach pain and flatulence. Black cumin seeds also have a long history in the natural treatment of asthma and other respiratory conditions. Compounds from the seeds appear to have antimicrobial properties, and are sometimes used to treat urinary tract infections. Oil from black cumin seeds can be used topically to treat dry skin, eczema and other skin issues. In addition, black cumin seeds are sometimes used in beauty regimens to strengthen hair and nails, as well as making them more glossy.
A beneficial tea can be made by infusing the seeds with boiling hot water.
Also called Kala Jeera this is a more rare form of cumin. Black Cumin is more subtle than brown cumin, the seeds are sweeter, smaller and have a more delicate taste. The first flavour is small, then it grows to a smokey black flavour like lapsang suchong. The after taste is slightly bitter with nuances of citrus and aniseed.
Discover life beyond mushy Masala noodles with Ching's mind-blowing Desi Chinese Instant Noodles that are non-sticky and addictively spice-a-licious...
One of the most popular spices used in rice dishes. The large oval-shaped black pods release a warm, aromatic flavor. Unlike the green pods, this cardamom is rarely used in deserts and sweet dishes. Black cardamom is now a staple in African, Indian and Middle Eastern cooking. Because of the drying process which involves roasting over open fires, black cardamom has a unique smoky flavor and is just excellent in rice. Use sparingly as it has a rich flavour.
A mixture of authentic spices lightly roasted before grinding and blending to bring out their highly aromatic flavours. Delicious on all roast and grilled meat dishes.
Tandoori masala is used for tandoori cooking. Tandoor ovens are traditional Indian clay ovens used to cook meats and vegetables in a kind of barbecue. The tandoori masala is mixed with yoghurt and the meat is coated with the mix and left to marinate before cooking in the tandoor oven.
All the flavour and texture of fresh ginger without the inconvenience of peeling and chopping. Ginger paste is an essential ingredient in many Indian curries as well as Thai and Chinese cuisine. This ginger paste has the highest ginger content on the market with a total of 95% pure ginger content. 1 teaspoon equals a 2cm Ginger piece.
Natco Kashmiri Chilli Powder is made from the ground dry-roasted skins of red chillies. Chilli powder is used generously in a wide variety of Indian dishes. It is extremely hot and adds heat and red colour to dishes. Chilli powder is an essential ingredient in a Vindaloo base.
Chillies are high in Vitamin C and are said to have beneficial properties for blood circulation and purification and also have the ability to destroy toxins naturally. There are over 20 varieties of chillies from which chilli powder is made.
A tropical herb of the ginger family. A colourful, mildly aromatic and versatile spice used in most Indian dishes. Use sparingly.
Turmeric keeps for only a few months so replace regularly.
Available in 400g bag.