Shahi Jeera / Shajira
Imperial / Royal Cumin Seed
(Bunium persicum)
AKA ‘Syahi Jeera’ ‘Black Caraway Seed’
Shahi Jeera is the dark brown to black colored caraway seeds but smaller, thinner, darker and sweeter. It has milder flavor than cumin seeds, but rich with a sweet, floral tone.
After toasting the seeds, develop a nutty flavor and the scent, which greatly enhances the
foods that they are cooked with.
Shahi jeera can be substituted for cumin seeds.
Suggested Uses:
These seeds are baked into breads, cakes, biscuits and cheese, steamed in rice, or added
to spice pastes, meats, soups, stews and sauces to add a distinct aroma.
It is quite popular with the Mughal cooking like biryani, korma, & tandoori dishes
for adding authentic nutty flavor.
Shahi Jeera is usually added at the end of cooking. Before adding, the seeds are lightly
toasted in hot oil or dry roast them.
Health Benefits:
The primary medical benefit of Shahi jeerac is its effect on digestion and helps in appetite. It is a carminative which means it helps with abdominal gas and blotting
