I Just Learned Where Cumin Really Comes From, And It's Not A Seed

First, came the discovery that a lot of mass-produced paprika comes from a type of sweet bell pepper (Capsicum annuum), which offers next to no heat.

Then, I found out that cloves are the dried buds and stems from clove tree branches and capers are actually flower buds, hand-picked, dried, salted, and sometimes brined before we eat them. 

So, what about cumin, the deliciously earthy spice that’s key to dishes like falafel? 

As it turn...