Who run the culinary world? Spices!

These seeds, roots, fruits, and herbs are an integral part of cooking thanks to their addictive flavor and health benefits. 

According to each cuisine, spices' usage varies widely; For example, the French like their meals simple while Indians are known for their devotion to the world of spices.  

If you haven't realized this yet, to avoid confusion, many spices have identical names in both English and Arabic. 

1. Caraway

caraway seeds, spice,
Source: Shopify

Pronounced "karawya" in Arabic, this spice is also called "meridian fennel" or "Persian cumin."

2. Cumin

cumin seeds,
Source: Amazon

Cumin or "kammoun" is derived from the Latin word "cuminum," and has a powerful taste and many health benefits. 

3. Mastic

mastic
Source: Greek Boston

"Mistika" is also known as Arabic or Yemen gum. 

4. Saffron

saffron, © anidimi/Fotolia
Source: Britannica

"Zaafaran" is one of the world's most exotic and expensive spices. It's heavily used in Saudi, Emirati, Farsi and Indian cooking. 

5. Sumac

sumac,
Source: Spicography

This one remains the same in both languages. It is predominantly used in Middle Eastern cuisines. 

6. Tarragon

tarragon,
Source: Spicography

Pronounced "tarkhoon" in Arabic, tarragon was known in the Middle Ages as "tragonia" and "tarchon." 

7. Paprika

paprika
Source: Active Beat

While paprika may translate to "red pepper" or "sweet pepper," its powder is commonly known and used as "mus-hooq paprika" throughout the Arab world.

8. Vanilla

vanilla,
Source: Buffher

It simply becomes ''fanilla."

9. Ajwain

ajwain,
Source: Stylecraze

Known as "ajwain," "ajowan," and "carom seeds," this spice is most popular in India. 

10. Galangale

Galangale
Source: Magic herbs

In Asia and the Middle East, "galangale" or "galangal" can refer to any aromatic rhizome of the ginger family.