Carom Seeds (Ajwain)

These pale, khaki coloured seeds resemble cumin and fennel seeds. Carom seeds are very aromatic, they taste like thyme but is very pungent and should only be used in very small quantities as it can also be bitter and will dominate all other flavours and it should never be used raw.

Carom seeds are used in vegetable dishes for their distinctive flavour and in pickles for its preservative quality. They also have medicinal properties as it is known to relieve indigestion and can help to reduce flatulence, which is why carom seeds are often added to bean dishes. Carom Seeds are available in most Asian supermarkets.