Cumin Powder: Nutty, Earthy Jeera
Ground jeera for raita, chaat, curries and buttermilk — and why roasting it changes everything.
What it is
Cumin powder is ground cumin seed (jeera). Its nutty, earthy flavour works both in cooking and as a finishing sprinkle, especially when lightly roasted.
What usually goes into it
- Single spice: ground cumin seed
Blends vary from kitchen to kitchen — check the ingredient list printed on your Khushilo pack for the exact recipe.
How to use it
- Stir into raita, buttermilk, chaat and salads
- Add to curries and dals towards the end
- Dry-roast a spoonful in a pan for 30 seconds for a deeper, smoky flavour
How much to use
- ½–1 teaspoon for 4 servings
- For raita: a generous pinch per bowl
Goes well with
Coriander Powder · Chaat Masala · Garam Masala
Storing it
Keep the pack closed in a cool, dry cupboard away from the stove and sunlight. Always use a dry spoon, and move the powder to an airtight jar once opened if you cook with it less than once a week.
Shop the spices
Related guides
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Cumin-spiced potatoes for a quick side, tiffin or snack.
RecipeFruit Chaat with Chaat Masala
Seasonal fruit, lemon and a pinch of chaat masala — the easiest evening snack.
Sambar Powder: What It Is and How to Use It
The roasted spice blend behind a thick, tangy Karnataka-style sambar — and how much to add for the perfect pot.