Zira and cumin are the same thing: Cuminum cyminum. Cumin (Carum carvi) is another spice with a sharper aroma; it is not used in Uzbek cuisine. In Uzbek cuisine, “Zira” is always Kumin.
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spices-herbs
Zira (kumin)
Zira is the main spice of Uzbek cuisine: slightly dried, with a rich aroma, we weigh when buying. Without it, there's no real pilaf.
Zira is the main Uzbek spice: a warm, slightly smoky, slightly nutty aroma, which opens when in contact with oil. Without Zira, you will not get pilaf, lagman, shurpa and any meat in the Uzbek style; on our counter, Zira lies in a placer, in glass jars - we hang with you.
- Origin
- Uzbekistan / Iran (by season)
- Category
- Spices and seasonings
- Packing
- Weight from 50g, packing 100g and 250g
- Storage period
- Up to 18 months in airtight containers
- Certification
- Certified by Halal Latvia
In the Uzbek market, the cumin is traditionally kept open: it is better to see the variety, size of the seed and dry lot. There are two types of cumin: ordinary white (Cuminum cyminum) and rare black cumin (Bunium persicum) with a thinner aroma - it is usually taken to meat and tea.
To plov for 4-6 portions take a teaspoon (about 8 g) of curing; to lagman - half a teaspoon. The seed is slightly rubbed between the palms or in a mortar right before adding - so the fragrance opens up more fully. If you fry the cumin in oil, do it for 30-45 seconds: longer - it begins to bitter.
It is better to store cumin at home in a sealed jar away from the stove: water, fat and sunlight steal the flavor. On the counter, we weigh a batch of 50 g - this is enough for a month of active kitchen; for everyday cooking, it is more convenient to take a fresh batch every 2-3 weeks.
FAQ
Zira (Kumin) - frequent questions
For 4-6 servings - about 8 g (full teaspoon). If the cumin is fresh and fragrant, you can do a little less; if it has been stored for a long time - a little more. Before adding, slightly rub the seeds between your palms.
Seasonally, we have Bunium persicum, a black sira from Iran and Uzbekistan. Its fragrance is thinner and more complex, the price is higher. Check with the seller on the counter.
In a sealed glass jar, in a dry, dark place, far from the stove. Shelf life is up to 18 months, but the brightest aroma is in the first 6 months. Ground cumin is best prepared from seeds immediately before use.
To pilaf or tea
Pack a basket for dinner right on the counter.
At the Uzbek bazaar in Riga, you can collect a full lunch in one go: rice, spices, dried fruits, tortillas and tea. If you are planning a family holiday or a large company - write in advance through the form, we will collect the set by the right time.