Cumin has a rich flavor, earthy spiciness, and is the second most-used spice in the world after black pepper. Cumin was used back in ancient times and is still highly important to modern global cuisines, used in preparations like curry powder, bahārāt, and chutneys; these dishes may give you a clue as to which country produces the most cumin.

India produces more cumin than any other country in the world, and the spice has played a crucial role in Indian cuisine as far back as known history goes. India harvested 1,431,000 tons of cumin in 2020, producing about 70% of the world’s total supply that year, and a portion of the country's output was exported to 150 different countries.

Cumin is part of the parsley family, and grows in the form of a seed-like fruit that works well in rice dishes, stews, soups, and sauces. The plant is native to Asia Minor, though Greeks and Romans were the first to heavily use this spice, and today, Turkey, Mexico, and the United Arab Emirates follow India as leading cumin producers.