Ajwain Seeds

These tiny seeds are produced by a herb related to cumin, caraway, parsley and dill. They have a similar fragrance to cumin with a more intense and assertive flavour that resembles thyme with liquorice overtones. Used whole to flavour breads, lentils and pulses in northern Indian cooking, where it is also known as carom or bishop’s weed, ajwain aids digestion and has antiseptic properties (it is used in poultices and the manufacturing of toothpaste). Available: Indian food stores.