Caraway seed

Caraway Seed

The caraway seed (Carum carvi), also known as meridian fennel or Persian cumin, is a biennial plant in the family Apiaceae, native to western Asia, Europe, and North Africa. The plant is similar in appearance to other members of the carrot family, with finely divided, feathery leaves with thread-like divisions, growing on 20–30 cm stems. The main flower stem is 40–60 cm tall, with small white or pink flowers in umbels. Caraway fruits (erroneously called seeds) are crescent-shaped achenes, around 2 mm long, with five pale ridges.

Culinary Uses

Caraway seeds are frequently used in baking. The seeds found in most types of rye bread are caraway seeds. The seeds are also used to flavor liquor, desserts, casseroles, and other foods. They are also used in sauerkraut, a traditional German dish. In Middle Eastern cuisine, caraway pudding is a popular dessert during Ramadan.

Medicinal Uses

Caraway seeds have been used for centuries as a herbal medicine. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals and are known for their healing properties. They are used to treat digestive problems, improve appetite, and to help with weight loss. Caraway seeds are also used in the treatment of bronchitis and are thought to improve kidney function.

Cultivation

Caraway is a hardy plant that can withstand harsh conditions. It prefers a well-drained soil and a sunny location. The plant is typically grown from seed with the seeds sown in the early spring. The plants mature in the second year and when they are about 8 inches tall, they can be transplanted to their final location.

History

The use of caraway dates back to the Stone Age. The seeds have been found in archaeological digs of ancient lake dwellings in Switzerland. Caraway was used in Roman cooking and it has been found in food remains in archaeological sites.

See Also

• Cumin
• Fennel
• Anise
• Coriander