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

Source: Shopify

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

2. Cumin

Source: Amazon

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

3. Mastic

Source: Greek Boston

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

4. Saffron

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

Source: Spicography

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

6. Tarragon

Source: Spicography

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

7. 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

Source: Buffher

It simply becomes ''fanilla."

9. Ajwain

Source: Stylecraze

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

10. Galangale

Source: Magic herbs

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