Are you looking to add a burst of flavor to your meals? Look no further than the humble spice cumin! With its warm, earthy aroma and slightly spicy kick, cumin is the perfect addition to a wide range of dishes. From hearty stews and soups to savory meats and vegetables, cumin has the power to elevate even the most mundane recipes into something truly special.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 deliciously spicy cumin recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From classic combinations like beef tacos and chicken skewers, to innovative twists like roasted carrots with honey glaze and cumin-infused tomato chutney, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to provide inspiration and guidance as you cook your way through the flavors of the world. So let’s get started and discover the incredible possibilities that await when cumin is added to the mix!
Cumin-Spiced Roasted Chickpeas
Add a burst of flavor to your snack time with these crunchy and addictive Cumin-Spiced Roasted Chickpeas. Perfect for munching on the go or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chickpeas and pat dry with a paper towel.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and salt.
4. Add the chickpeas to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the spice mixture.
5. Spread the chickpeas on a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until crispy, shaking the pan halfway through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Grilled Cumin Lime Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with these flavorful and aromatic chicken skewers, perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner. Marinated in a zesty cumin-lime mixture, the chicken is then grilled to perfection, resulting in juicy and tender bites.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Cumin and Coriander Lentil Soup
This hearty soup combines the warm, earthy flavors of cumin and coriander with the comforting simplicity of lentils. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a nutritious lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, coriander, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Cumin Beef Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this bold and flavorful recipe, featuring tender beef coated in a spicy cumin mixture and served in crispy tacos shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 tacos shells
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, vegetable oil, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well with hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Form the mixture into small meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by placing beef onto warmed shells and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cumin-Roasted Carrots with Honey Glaze
Transform humble carrots into a flavorful masterpiece with the warm, earthy essence of cumin and the sweetness of honey. This simple recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel the carrots and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the carrot slices and toss until they are evenly coated.
4. Spread the carrot mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
6. While the carrots are roasting, mix together honey and 1 tablespoon of water in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let it glaze while the carrots finish roasting.
7. Remove the carrots from the oven and brush with the warm honey glaze.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cumin and Garlic Butter Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of butter with the boldness of cumin and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and cumin until well combined.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat with the butter mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
7. Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Moroccan Cumin-Spiced Lamb Stew
Warm up with this aromatic and flavorful stew that combines the richness of lamb with the bold spices of Morocco. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the lamb pieces in batches until browned on all sides. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook 1 minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes, broth, and browned lamb. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or until lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Cumin-Scented Black Bean Dip
This vibrant and flavorful dip is perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to family movie nights. The cumin adds a warm, earthy depth that complements the creamy black beans beautifully.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, sour cream, lime juice, and olive oil.
2. Stir in the cumin until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-30 minutes (including chilling time)
Cumin and Turmeric Rice Pilaf
This flavorful pilaf is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite grilled meats or as a side dish for a healthy meal. The combination of cumin, turmeric, and saffron adds a warm and aromatic flavor profile that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice, cumin, turmeric, and salt. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy Cumin Roasted Potatoes
Add a kick to your potato game with this flavorful recipe! Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these Spicy Cumin Roasted Potatoes are perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and crispy, shaking the pan halfway through.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve hot!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cumin and Chili Roasted Nuts
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful recipe that combines the warmth of cumin with the heat of chili peppers. Perfect for munching on while watching a movie or as a healthy addition to your favorite trail mix.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground chili powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, and chili powder.
3. Add the mixed nuts and toss until evenly coated with the spice mixture.
4. Spread the nuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until fragrant and lightly toasted.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cumin-Infused Tomato Chutney
A flavorful and aromatic condiment that pairs perfectly with Indian-inspired dishes, this cumin-infused tomato chutney is a game-changer for your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chutney thickens and the flavors meld together.
4. Stir in the chopped cilantro.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cumin and Ginger Butternut Squash Soup
This vibrant orange soup is a perfect blend of spices, roasted butternut squash, and creamy texture. Perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening, this recipe combines the earthy sweetness of squash with the warmth of cumin and ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 45 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
5. Add cumin, ginger, and roasted squash to the pot. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
7. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
8. If desired, stir in heavy cream or coconut cream for added richness.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cumin-Spiced Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your stuffed pepper game with this flavorful recipe that combines the warmth of cumin with the juiciness of ground turkey. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the mixture is well combined.
5. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture, then top with cooked rice and shredded cheese (if using).
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cumin and Paprika Grilled Corn
Elevate your backyard barbecues with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of grilled corn with the warm, earthy flavors of cumin and paprika.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the corn ears with olive oil and sprinkle with the cumin-paprika mixture.
4. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred and tender.
5. Serve hot, with lime wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cumin and Lemon Roasted Cauliflower
Brighten up your meal with this flavorful and vibrant roasted cauliflower dish, infused with the warmth of cumin and the brightness of lemon. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish to elevate any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle with garlic, lemon juice, and parsley.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cumin-Spiced Chickpea and Spinach Curry
This flavorful curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices, creamy spinach, and tender chickpeas. A comforting and nutritious meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– 2 cups water
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Stir in chickpeas, spinach, coconut milk, and water. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let curry cook for 15-20 minutes or until spinach has wilted.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cumin and Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Add a burst of flavor to your Indian-inspired dishes with this simple and tangy Cumin and Garlic Yogurt Sauce. Perfect for topping naan, rice bowls, or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, garlic, cumin, and salt until smooth.
2. Stir in lemon juice.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None required! This sauce is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 spicy cumin recipes! From savory dishes like Cumin-Spiced Roasted Chickpeas and Spicy Cumin Beef Tacos, to sweet treats like Cumin-Roasted Carrots with Honey Glaze, there’s something for everyone. Discover the versatility of cumin as it adds depth and warmth to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and even soups and stews. Whether you’re in the mood for international flavors or classic comfort food, these recipes will take your meals to the next level.
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