I’m certain there are many lovers of the musky-earthy spice cumin, however, how many of you knew that cumin was also good for our heart? In fact, medical researchers have shown that cumin is an anti-oxidant. This anti-oxidative property prevents inflammatory damage to the heart and all blood vessels. Inflammation has been shown to be the culprit for heart attacks, strokes, and a variety of other heart system maladies such as high blood pressure.
Cumin is the dried seed of a flowering plant. This plant is actually a member of the parsley family. Thought to be native to Asia or the Eastern Mediterranean, cumin is used in many cuisines around the globe for its distinctive flavor and aroma. It is found as one of the ingredients of India’s curry powder and garam masala, multiple Middle Eastern & North African recipes, Mexico’s achiote blends, Spain’s sofrito, South Asia’s powdered mix called dhana jeera, as well as in American chili powder.
India is currently the world’s largest producer of cumin---approximately 70% of cumin is produced there. The cumin plant requires hot temperatures to grow. Syria used to be a dominant player on the global market in cumin production, however, that market has ground to a halt.
From ancient Mesopotamia to current day street tacos, cumin has spiced up our culinary world for millenniums. With healthy food being a dominant theme today, cumin is a healthy option for flavoring as it offers neither fats nor calories. Furthermore, its heart-healthy benefits make it an ideal choice to jump-start 2022!
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