Cumin Seeds are a staple of Indian Cooking, and are used extensively in almost all curries and curry powder mixes.
Directions
Best results are achieved when cumin seeds are ground immediately before use. This releases the flavours (in the essential oils within the seed) as close to the moment of cooking as possible, locking in the freshness. Heating the cumin seeds in a pan immediately before crushing will intensify the flavour.
If you do not have a mortar and pestle for crushing, a rolling pin will suffice, or the appropriate attachment on a blender.
Cumin seeds are available in a range of sizes, and also in the form of cumin powder for those who want the convenience of ready-ground cumin.