The leaves have a strong, pungent taste that compliments fish and meat dishes, particularly those containing tomatoes.

Caraway seed can be used whole or ground. It is widely used in Eastern european cooking, particularly in vegetable dishes and baking.

It is well suited for use in flavouring soups and casseroles.

The hardness and oil content of nutmeg means it is not particularly easy to grind in the domestic situation so pre-ground nutmeg provides a convenient alternative to whole nutmeg.