Ajwain

Description

Ajwain, also known as carom seeds, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to the eastern Mediterranean region and western Asia, but is now widely cultivated in India, Iran, Egypt, and Afghanistan. The plant grows up to a height of 20-30cm and has a slender stem with numerous branches. The leaves are small, feathery, and green in color, while the flowers are white or pink and arranged in umbels. The fruit of the plant is a small, oval-shaped seed that is brown in color and has a pungent aroma.

Ajwain is a popular spice in Indian cuisine and is used in a variety of dishes, including curries, bread, and pickles. It has a strong, bitter taste and a distinct aroma that is similar to thyme. The seeds are rich in essential oils, including thymol, which gives them their characteristic flavor and aroma.