Warm and earthy, with a bit of sweetness and bitterness. Cumin has been used for millennia and forms the base of many spice blends (especially Indian!).
Similar to how the Western world keeps salt and pepper handy in shakers, cumin was a tabletop staple in ancient Greece—and still is in modern-day Morocco.
Familiar yet versatile, there’s a reason these tried and true spices are common characters in the average American cupboard. Perfect for new cooks or new homes.