Cumin and caraway are regularly confused with each other. That's not so strange: at first glance the seeds look similar and the English name of caraway, caraway, adds even more confusion. Still, they are two very different spices, each with its own taste, aroma and use.
In this blog we explain the differences between cumin and caraway, when to use which spice and why black cumin (nigella) is again a very different story.
What is cumin?
Cumin (Cuminum cyminum), also known as djinten, is a spice that has been used for thousands of years in cuisines around the world. The elongated yellow-brown seeds have a warm, spicy and slightly nutty flavor with a subtle bitterness.
Cumin is indispensable in, among others:
- Indian curries
- Mexican chili con carne
- Middle Eastern dishes
- Moroccan tagines
- Falafel and hummus
- Taco and burrito seasonings
At Natural Spices you'll find both whole and ground cumin. Check out our Cumin Seed Whole (Djinten) for the most intense flavor experience.
What is caraway?
Caraway (Carum carvi), also called kummel, belongs to the same Apiaceae family as cumin, but has a completely different flavor profile.
Caraway tastes:
- fresh
- slightly licorice-like
- a little peppery
- with notes of fennel and dill
Caraway is widely used in:
- rye bread
- sauerkraut
- stews
- potato dishes
- cheese
- sausage
- German, Austrian and Eastern European dishes
Although the seeds closely resemble those of cumin, the flavor is much milder and fresher.
Cumin vs caraway: the main differences
| Cumin | Caraway |
|---|---|
| Warm, earthy flavor | Fresh, anise-like flavor |
| Widely used in Asian and Mexican cuisine | Widely used in European cuisine |
| Goes well with curries and chili | Goes well with bread, sauerkraut and potatoes |
| Slightly bitter | Fresh and aromatic |
| Also known as djinten | Also known as kummel |
How can you tell the difference?
Caraway seed is usually:
- slightly darker in color
- narrower
- more strongly curved
- with more pronounced ribs
Cumin seed is:
- slightly lighter
- straighter in shape
- plumper
- a bit larger
When both lie next to each other the difference is clearly visible, but when apart they are often mistaken for one another.
Can you substitute cumin with caraway?
Usually not.
Although both spices are related, they differ too much in flavor.
Prefer using:
Cumin for:
- curries
- Mexican dishes
- minced meat
- chili
- couscous
- rice dishes
Caraway for:
- rye bread
- sauerkraut
- potato dishes
- stews
- cheese
- sausage
Only when a recipe calls for a small amount can you optionally experiment, but the end result will taste clearly different.
And what about black cumin?
This may be where the most confusion arises.
Black cumin is actually not cumin at all.
What is often called black cumin is nigella seed (Nigella sativa). Despite the name, this plant does not belong to the same family as regular cumin.
Nigella has a unique flavor reminiscent of:
- onion
- oregano
- pepper
- sesame
The small black seeds are often used as a topping on naan, Turkish bread and flatbreads, but also in curries, salads and pickled vegetables.
Want to know more? Then also read our extensive blog about cumin vs black cumin.
Health benefits
Both cumin and caraway naturally contain various antioxidants and minerals.
Cumin
Cumin is, among other things, a source of:
- iron
- antioxidants
- essential oils
Traditionally, cumin has been used for centuries to support digestion.
Caraway
Caraway is particularly known for its aromatic oils, including carvone and limonene. Caraway is also traditionally used a lot in dishes that are heavier to digest, such as cabbage and legumes.
Although both spices fit within a varied diet, they are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle or medical treatment.
Buy cumin or caraway?
At Natural Spices you can buy both spices in various packaging sizes.
For consumers and professional users we deliver products of consistent quality.
See, among others:
- Cumin Seed Whole (Djinten)
- Caraway Seed Whole (Kummel)
- Nigella Seed (Black Cumin)
Also for hospitality, foodservice and manufacturers
Do you use cumin or caraway on a larger scale? Natural Spices also supplies both spices to:
- hospitality
- caterers
- bakeries
- food producers
- meal producers
- retailers
- distributors
Thanks to our own production and packaging location, we can deliver in a wide range of packagings, from consumer packs to industrial use and bulk. In addition, we are happy to think along about private label, customized blends and product specifications for professional applications.
Frequently asked questions
Is caraway the same as cumin?
No. They are two different spices with a different taste and application.
Why is caraway called caraway in English?
The English name caraway often causes confusion because many people think this is the same as cumin. That is not the case.
Is black cumin the same as cumin?
No. Black cumin usually refers to nigella seed (Nigella sativa), a completely different plant.
Which flavor is stronger?
Cumin has a more powerful, warmer and earthier flavor. Caraway is fresher, milder and anise-like.
Can I use cumin and caraway together?
Yes. In some Central European and Middle Eastern recipes both spices are combined for extra depth.
Conclusion
Although cumin and caraway resemble each other in many ways, they differ greatly in taste and use. Cumin gives dishes a warm, spicy base and is indispensable in Asian, Mexican and Middle Eastern cuisine. Caraway, on the other hand, has a fresh, slightly licorice-like flavor and is particularly at home in bread, sauerkraut and traditional European dishes.
Not sure which spice you need? Then especially look at the type of dish. That way you'll always bring the right flavor into your home.
