Cumin is a traditional spice originating from the Middle East. The slender brown cumin seeds have a lingering aroma that is pungent, earthy, and sweet with a hint of peppermint. Cumin is used extensively in Middle Eastern, Asian and Mexican style dishes; particularly curries and soup Whole seeds are great toasted and add crunch to tortillas, soups, salads, salsas.  Cumin oil is a powerful essential oil that can be used for bodily health and for cooking.