Jeera

Cumin or Jeera is used frequently whole and in spice mixes to add a characteristic smoky note to Indian dishes.
It comes from the parsley family. The seeds are oval with ridges, greenish-beige in color. Cumin is usually dry-fried before use (drop the whole seeds into a hot dry pan and cook until the roasted fragrance emerges). It is used in tempering,to flavor rice, stuffed vegetables, many savory dishes and curries. Cumin can be used both as the whole seed or ground.

It is considered a good source of Iron, manganese, and other vitamins and minerals.