Deutsch: Echter Kümmel / Indian: Shemma Jeerakam
Caraway (Carum carvi), also known as meridian fennel, or Persian cumin, is a biennial plant in the family Apiaceae, native to western Asia, Europe and Northern Africa. The plant is similar in appearance to other members of the carrot family, with finely divided, feathery leaves with thread-like divisions, growing on 30 cm stems. The main flower stem is 40 - 60 cm tall, with small white or pink flowers in umbels. Caraway fruits (erroneously called seeds) are crescent-shaped achenes, around 2 mm long, with five pale ridges.

In the food context, caraway is a spice that comes from the seeds of the caraway plant. It has a warm, slightly sweet flavor with a hint of licorice. Caraway is used in a variety of dishes, from bread and pastries to savory dishes such as stews and soups.

Here are some examples of dishes that use caraway as a primary ingredient:

1. Caraway Rye Bread: A hearty bread made with rye flour and caraway seeds.

2. Caraway Kraut: A traditional German dish made with sauerkraut and caraway seeds.

3. Caraway Potato Soup: A creamy soup made with potatoes, cream, and caraway seeds.

4. Caraway Roast Pork: A flavorful pork dish made with a rub of caraway seeds and other spices.

5. Caraway Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, caraway seeds, and a tangy dressing.

Similar spices to caraway include:

1. Fennel Seeds: A spice with a sweet, licorice-like flavor that is often used in sausage and meat dishes.

2. Anise Seeds: A spice with a sweet, licorice-like flavor that is often used in baked goods and confections.

3. Cumin Seeds: A spice with a warm, earthy flavor that is often used in Mexican and Middle Eastern dishes.

4. Coriander Seeds: A spice with a slightly sweet and citrusy flavor that is often used in Indian and Middle Eastern dishes.

5. Dill Seeds: A spice with a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that is often used in pickling and fish dishes.

6. Mustard Seeds: A spice with a pungent, slightly bitter flavor that is often used in condiments and pickling.