FoodFood InformationHerbs&Spice
CARAWAY (Carum carvi)
During its first year, caraway grows about 815 inches high and then reachesabout 2 feet in the second. In the second year, flat, umbrella like clustersof greenish white flowers appear on the stems above the foliage and in midsummerripen into seeds-after which the plant dies. Foliage is delicate and lacy,like that of carrots.
A native of southeastern Europe and western Asia, caraway has been in usefor thousands of years. Seeds which are believed to be caraway have beenfound in ancient lake villages in Switzerland. Ancient Greeks prescribedcaraway seeds for bringing color back into the faces of girls with palecomplexions. The seeds were eaten by the Romans to relieve indigestion,and its roots were cooked and eaten like carrots or turnips. Now, carawayis used as a flavoring in Kummel and foods such as rye bread.
Start caraway from seeds sown in the fall or spring where they are to grow.This herb thrives in well drained, neutral garden soil and full sun. Incold climates, protect yearling plants with a mulch during the winter.
Harvest the seeds when they have ripened but before they fall to the ground.They can be used to flavor pickles, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower,and rye bread; or serve them in the traditional old English manner-in asmall dish along with baked apples.