Cumin seeds (Jeera) are the seeds of the caraway family. Two types — black and white are available. White ones are generally used in curries and other large varieties of food. The black ones known as ‘Shah Jeera’ is more pungent and mostly used in pulao and biryani. Available as whole or in powdered form. Store in air tight container in dry place. Do not use wet spoon in the container for taking out for use. This spice is widely used in most Indian, Pakistani and Bangladesh dishes, also in Middle Eastern, North African preparations., used in Spanish stews and American pies