Cumin is the pale green seed of Cuminum cyminum, a small herb in the parsley family. The seed is uniformly eliptical and deeply furrowed in Iran and India. Cumin is frequently used in Mexican dishes such as chili con carne and hot tamales. Cumin has a distinctive, slightly bitter yet warm flavor. Rich and hearty, earthy and warm, with an edge of citrus, Cumin adds instant depth to any dish.