Lovage Seeds (Ajwain)

Lovage Seeds come from the plant Levisticum officinale, the only species in the Levisticum genus. These seeds have been used in kitchens for well over a thousand years, and in that time have had many names. Ajwain, Ajwan, Bishops weed, Ajowan Caraway, Carom seed, Thymol seed and more. They are all the same though, but goes to show how popular they have been throughout history.

Lovage Seeds have a deliciously herby taste, a bit like thyme and oregano, and have a cumin seed like bite. You will often find them in Indian foods such as samosas, pakoras, bhajis and spice blends such as Chaat Masala and Berbere Seasoning. Try adding them to onion and potato dishes, or use them with fish or lentils. You can also use them when making your own pickles, flavouring the vinegar with a wonderful taste.

We also have Lovage Leaves, if you’re looking for those. Other seed spices we have include Coriander Seeds, Cumin Seeds, Nigella Seeds, Dill Seeds, White Poppy Seeds and Yellow Mustard Seeds. As with all herbs and spices, add a little at a time to get the flavour you want. You can always add more, but taking it out again can be impossible!