caraway seeds (ज्वानो)
About caraway seeds (ज्वानो)
Caraway seeds, while not a staple in Nepalese cuisine like some other spices, are still found and used in various ways. They are known as 'jira' or 'shahi jira' in Nepali (although shahi jira usually refers to black cumin, the term can be confusingly used). Caraway seeds are not cultivated extensively in Nepal, so they are primarily imported. Their distinct flavor makes them an occasional addition to certain curries, pickles, and spice blends, offering a unique aromatic and digestive contribution to the local culinary landscape. They are also utilized in traditional medicine practices for their purported health benefits.
Nutritional info
These are the major micro nutrients found in caraway seeds
Seasonality
Caraway seeds are not grown on a commercial scale in Nepal. They are primarily imported and therefore available year-round. The seasonality of the plant that produces the seed is less relevant in Nepal's context due to its import nature.
History
The history of caraway seeds in Nepal is less documented compared to spices that are native to or widely cultivated within the country. Given that caraway is not a major crop in Nepal, its introduction is more likely through trade routes that connected Nepal with India and other parts of Asia. The seeds’ usage in traditional medicine and occasional culinary applications suggests their integration into Nepalese culture over time, despite not being a primary ingredient. Therefore, they have become more of an adapted flavour in Nepalese cooking traditions, rather than being part of the historical culinary roots of Nepal.