Uniqueness of Indian spices

​There are more than 40 Indian spices. this list of some essential spices that are used in just about all Indian food, Combining traditional spices to produce beautiful cooking is an almost spiritual act. Certainly exploring Indian food will greatly expand your cooking repertoire.

1. Turmeric 

Indian food needs turmeric. Turmeric, a ground spice, has an earthy supporting flavour. Of all the spices used in Indian cooking, this one has huge health benefits. If used for health purposes, make sure to include at least a dash of black pepper in your recipes. Turmeric is a great anti-inflammatory, but without the piperine from black pepper, its effects are diminished.

2. Cayenne pepper

A little cayenne pepper certainly goes a long way – just a pinch can add heat to an entire pot of curry. Cayenne pepper is often used as a substitute for Indian red chilli and provides heat rather than flavour. It also has medicinal benefits, including aiding digestion and stimulating the circulatory system.

3. Cloves 

These fragrant flower buds, native to the Maluku Islands in Indonesia, are harvested from clove trees and particularly important in Indian biryani recipes. Use this powerful spice sparingly to add warmth to Indian curries or meat rubs.

4. Garam masala

Garam masala, which translates as hot spice, is an Indian cupboard staple integral to many traditional recipes. The fragrant powder boasts a mix of common spices such as pepper, cinnamon, cumin, nutmeg and coriander, which lend depth and flavour to dishes. 

5. Cardamom

Cardamom is indigenous to the Malabar coast of India and belongs to the ginger family of spices. It’s the third most expensive spice in the world, mainly because it’s hand-harvested and requires a lot of manual work.

6. Cumin

Cumin derives from the parsley family and adds a smoky note and a robust aroma to most Indian curries and vegetables. Fried in its dry form and roasted before use, cumin seed is usually the first spice added while cooking Indian dishes.