Wild Black Cumin, Whole Seed

Rumi cumin seeds vs. "Traditional" cumin seeds

When wondering about the difference between Rumi’s variety of cumin and “traditional” cumin, first, look at the color. Rumi’s premium cumin variety is known as black cumin for a reason. Its color is much darker than other varieties, lending itself to a richer flavor and more potent aroma.

Wild black cumin seeds are smaller in size, and darker brown to black, with some lighter streaks. Black cumin is harder to find and often confused with caraway, or nigella seed (which interestingly looks nothing like black cumin), but the confusion between these spices lie mostly in the translation of ‘black cumin’ in many languages where it is commonly used.

Where do Wild Cumin Seeds Come From?

Indigenous to the Old Persian Empire, black cumin is not well-known outside of the Middle East. Our black cumin grows wild along the foothills of the Hindu Kush Mountains in Afghanistan and is hand-picked and harvested by the farmers that inhabit this mountainous region. This small pocket of the world is the only place where this particular variety of black cumin can be found.

What do wild black cumin seeds taste like? 

While our black cumin is easily recognized as cumin upon the first whiff, it is likely very different than anything you’ve tasted before. Our black cumin is extremely flavorful and aromatic with woodsy, earthy notes. The mountainous terroir in which it’s grown is what gives our cumin its extra sharp, piney layer that differentiates it from the more common varieties.

Cumin Seeds vs. Ground Cumin

If you plan on cooking up traditional cumin dishes, you may find yourself having to choose between whole seed cumin and ground. Whole seed cumin keeps longer and its flavor is more pronounced when ground moments before use. Whole seed can also offer an added texture to certain dishes. Ground cumin has the obvious benefit of saving time and cleaning on grinding.

FAQS on Cumin Seeds

Q: Is this different from nigella sativa, which is also nicknamed “black cumin”?

A: Yes, our Black cumin seeds are more closely related to regular cumin. They are smaller in size, and darker brown to black, with some lighter streaks. Black cumin is harder to find and often confused with caraway, or nigella seed (which interestingly looks nothing like black cumin), but the confusion between these spices lie mostly in the translation of ‘black cumin’ in many languages where it is commonly used.

Q: What makes Rumi Spice Wild Cumin different from regular cumin?

A: Regular cumin seeds are yellow and brown in color. Oval in shape, they closely resemble caraway seeds, so read the label carefully to make sure you aren’t actually purchasing caraway seeds! 

Rumi Spice Wild Cumin is foraged from the wild foothills of the Hindu Kush mountains in Afghanistan, giving it a unique, robust, and nutty flavor with sharp earthy and piney undertones. It is hand-harvested by Afghan women, ensuring purity and a distinctive taste that sets it apart from conventionally grown cumin. 

Q: What are the health benefits of Wild Cumin?

A: Wild Cumin is rich in antioxidants, has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, and is nutrient-dense, containing essential minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium. It aids in digestion, may prevent food-borne illnesses, and supports overall health.

Q: How should I use Wild Cumin in my cooking?

A: Wild Cumin is versatile and can be used in various dishes, including savory dishes, curries, tacos, veggies, and hummus. Its potent flavor means a little goes a long way, so you may need to adjust the amount used in recipes that call for traditional cumin.

Q: Is Wild Cumin organic?

A: Our Wild Cumin is wild foraged and free from pesticides, herbicides, and other modern agricultural interventions, ensuring it is as pure and natural as possible. This is considered “better than organic.” It does not have organic certification, because it is grown wild in nature, not on owned land that can be certified.

Q: Can Wild Cumin be used as a substitute for regular cumin?

A: Yes, Wild Cumin can be used as a substitute for regular cumin in any recipe. However, due to its robust flavor, you might want to use it in smaller quantities.

Q: What is the mission of Rumi Spice?

A: Rumi Spice is dedicated to cultivating peace through sustainable and ethical sourcing of spices from Afghanistan. We empower Afghan women by providing them with employment opportunities and support, helping them become agents of change in their communities.

Q: How does Rumi Spice ensure the quality of its products?

A: We work directly with Afghan women foragers, employing traditional methods of harvesting and processing. Our products are hand-picked and carefully processed to ensure the highest quality and purity.

Q: How does my purchase support Afghan communities?

A: Every purchase of Rumi Spice products directly supports Afghan women and their families. By providing fair wages and sustainable employment, we help drive economic growth and empower women in Afghanistan.

Q: Where can I buy Rumi Spice products?

A: Rumi Spice products are available on our website, Amazon, and in retail stores.

Q: What other spices does Rumi Spice offer?

A: In addition to cumin, we offer a range of premium whole spices directly sourced from Afghanistan, including saffron, dill, coriander, fennel, and unique spice blends like harissa and Kabul Piquant.
See all our spices here →

Q: How can I stay updated on Rumi Spice’s initiatives and products?

A: You can stay updated by subscribing to our newsletter, following us on social media, and regularly checking our website for new products, recipes, and stories from Afghanistan.