Cumin is a member of the parsley family and native to India and the eastern Mediterranean. Both the whole and ground seed is widely used in Middle Eastern and Indian cooking as well as in Mexican cuisine. In Morocco, the spice is kept in a small container at the table like salt and pepper so that individuals can season their food to taste. Powdered cumin tends to bring out the sweetness of other foods in a recipe, although remember to observe the wisdom of the â??less is moreâ?� philosophy. Try adding some to scrambled eggs, rice, hummus and potatoes.