Jeera Powder, also known as cumin powder, is a staple spice in many cuisines around the world. Deriving from the seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant, this powdered form of cumin is a highly aromatic spice that adds a hearty warmth and earthy flavor to a plethora of dishes. Banya Market's Jeera Powder, available in a convenient 50-gram pack, is meticulously sourced and processed to offer the finest quality and freshness. A popular ingredient in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Latin American cuisines, Jeera Powder is celebrated not just for its unique flavor but also for its numerous health benefits.
Cumin, the primary ingredient in Jeera Powder, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. It originated in the Mediterranean and the Middle East, where it has been used for thousands of years both as a spice and a medicinal herb. Ancient Egyptians used cumin in the mummification process, and it was a vital part of the spice trade in the ancient world. The Romans and Greeks also incorporated cumin into their daily diet. Now, cumin is grown and used worldwide, but the highest quality cumin often comes from regions like India, Syria, and Turkey.
Banya Market's Jeera Powder is light to medium brown in color, finely ground to ensure that it adds a smooth consistency to your culinary creations.
It has a distinctive warm, earthy aroma with a hint of citrusy sharpness. This heady scent is released when the powder is heated in oil or other cooking mediums.
The taste of Jeera Powder is well-rounded with a slightly bitter undertone, lightly peppery accents, and nuances of lemony earthiness. This combination makes it a versatile spice that can enhance both savory and sweet dishes.
The texture is fine and powdery, allowing it to blend seamlessly into various types of food, whether in soups, stews, marinades, or spice rubs.
Jeera Powder is indispensable in Indian cooking. It is a key ingredient in curry powders, garam masala, and chaat masala. It is used to season dals, vegetables, and rice dishes like biryani and pulao. It also finds a place in chutneys and yogurts.
Cumin Rice (Jeera Rice):
Ingredients:
Basmati rice, Banya Market's Jeera Powder, Water, Salt, Ghee/Oil, Bay leaves, Cloves, Cinnamon Stick, Fresh Coriander.
Method:
Heat ghee/oil in a pan, add whole spices like bay leaves, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Once aromatic, add washed basmati rice and sauté briefly. Add Banya Market’s Jeera Powder, water, and salt. Cook until rice is fluffy. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot.
Dal Tadka:
Ingredients:
Yellow lentils (toor dal), Tomatoes, Onions, Garlic, Ginger, Green chilies, Banya Market’s Jeera Powder, Turmeric, Salt, Red chili powder, Ghee, Cumin seeds, Fresh coriander.
Method:
Cook lentils with tomatoes, turmeric, and salt until soft. In a separate pan, heat ghee, add cumin seeds until they crackle, followed by chopped onions, garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté until golden. Add Banya Market’s Jeera Powder, red chili powder, and salt. Combine with cooked lentils. Garnish with fresh coriander.
In Middle Eastern cooking, Jeera Powder is a vital component in spice mixtures like Baharat and Ras El Hanout. It flavors various types of meat and vegetable stews, kebabs, and falafel.
Hummus:
Ingredients:
Chickpeas, Tahini, Lemon juice, Garlic, Olive oil, Salt, Banya Market's Jeera Powder, Paprika, Water.
Method:
Blend chickpeas with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, Banya Market's Jeera Powder, and water till smooth. Garnish with paprika and another drizzle of olive oil.
Kebabs:
Ingredients:
Ground lamb or beef, Onions, Garlic, Parsley, Fresh mint, Banya Market's Jeera Powder, Paprika, Salt, Black pepper, Olive oil.
Method:
Mix the meat with chopped onions, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and mint, Banya Market's Jeera Powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Form into kebabs. Grill or cook until fully done. Serve with flatbread and salad.
In Latin American cuisine,
