Cumin (Cuminum cyminum) is a spice that is made from the dried seeds of a plant in the parsley family. The history of cumin can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where it was used for both culinary and medicinal purposes.

In ancient Egypt, cumin was used as a spice and also in the embalming process. The ancient Greeks and Romans also used cumin in their cooking and as a medicine. In ancient China, cumin was used to treat a variety of ailments such as indigestion and respiratory problems.

During the Middle Ages, cumin was highly valued and considered a luxury item. It was used in the cooking of the wealthy and was also used in perfumes and incense. The spice was so valuable that it was said to be worth more than gold. Cumin was also considered to have medicinal properties and was used to treat a variety of ailments such as colds, flu, and indigestion.

Cumin was brought to Europe by Arab traders during the Middle Ages, and it quickly became a popular spice in European cuisine. It was used in both sweet and savory dishes, and it was also used to make cumin-flavored liqueurs. Today, cumin is widely used in a variety of cuisines around the world, including Mexican, Indian, and Middle Eastern.

In addition to its culinary uses, cumin has a long history of use in traditional medicine. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Cumin is high in a compound called cuminaldehyde, which has been found to have beneficial effects on digestion and metabolic health.

Cumin is available whole or ground, and it is commonly used in savory dishes such as curries, stews, and meat dishes. It is also a popular spice in many spice blends such as chili powder, curry powder, and garam masala. Cumin is often used in combination with other spices such as coriander, turmeric, and ginger.

Here are a few dishes that go well with cumin:

1. Curries and stews: Cumin is a common ingredient in curries and stews, particularly in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mexican cuisines.

2. Meat dishes: Cumin is a common ingredient in meat dishes such as kebabs, sausage, and meatloaf.

3. Soups and stews: Cumin can be used to add a warm and slightly pungent flavor to soups and stews.

4. Spiced drinks: Cumin can be used to add a warm and slightly pungent flavor to hot drinks such as tea and coffee.

5. Vegetable dishes: Cumin can be used to add a warm and slightly pungent flavor to vegetable dishes such as roasted vegetables, curries and stews.

6. Seafood dishes: Cumin can be used to add a warm and slightly pungent flavor to seafood dishes such as fish tacos, ceviche, and shrimp scampi.

7. Salad dressings and marinades: Cumin can be used to add a warm and slightly pungent flavor to salad dressings and marinades.

8. Salsas, guacamoles, and dips: Cumin is a key ingredient in many traditional Mexican dishes such as salsa, guacamole, and dips, it adds a warm and slightly pungent flavor to these dishes.

Cumin pairs well with other spices such as coriander, turmeric, and ginger and it's commonly used in combination with lime juice, cilantro, and other herbs to enhance its flavor. It's also used in some sweet dishes like cakes, cookies, and pastries but in a minimal amount.