A fragrance reminiscent of thyme, essential from the simplest Indian dishes to the most complex masalas.

The adjwain is a plant native to the Indian subcontinent, which is also cultivated in several countries in the Middle East. Its seeds, similar in appearance to celery seeds, have a strong, almost peppery scent, which resembles that of thyme. They also contain one of the essential oils of thyme, thymol. In Indian cuisine, it scents vegetables, browned in ghee with onions and mustard. We use it most of the time, to give dishes not only a special flavor, but also a crispy side. The adjwain is a good substitute for thyme, but is used in smaller amounts.