Ground Caraway Seed is the powdered form of the whole seeds from the 'Carum carvi' plant. It is a convenient way to add its unique flavour to dishes without the texture of the whole seed.
Caraway has a very distinct, pungent flavour. It is peppery, earthy, and has a strong anise (licorice) note. It is the signature flavour in rye bread and sauerkraut.
This is a common point of confusion, but they are not the same. Caraway is peppery and tastes like anise/licorice. Cumin is savoury, smoky, and earthy, used in curries and Mexican food. They cannot be substituted for each other.
No. While both have an anise/licorice flavour, Caraway is much more pungent, peppery, and earthy. Fennel is significantly sweeter, milder, and more floral. Caraway is common in German food, while fennel is more common in Italian food.
It's a staple in German, Austrian, and Scandinavian cooking. Use it in rye bread, goulash, cabbage soups, potato salad, or in spice rubs for pork and duck. Since it's ground, it's best for smooth sauces, soups, and batters.
Yes, Caraway tea is a traditional beverage, often sipped after meals for digestion. Steep about 1/2 teaspoon of the ground seed in hot water for 5-10 minutes, then strain through a very fine filter.
