Spices are the central ingredients in any Indian cuisine and no Indian kitchen is complete without them. Indian spices impart a unique flavour and aroma to any dish that is prepared by adding them. Along with this, some of the spices also add a bright colour to the dishes which makes it enticing to the eyes.
In this blog, we will discuss the essential Indian spices you need in your kitchen to make mouth-watering Indian dishes. Keep reading to know more about these spices that are sure to make your recipes flavourful and aromatic.
1. Turmeric
Popularly known as Haldi in Indian cuisine, turmeric is a golden-yellow spice that adds an earthy flavour to dishes. Mostly used as a powdered spice, turmeric powder has many medicinal properties and health benefits such as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, improves metabolism, and fights anxiety and depression.
Along with its culinary and medicinal uses, this spice is also used in Indian rituals as it is considered auspicious.
2. Red Chilli
Sun dried red chillies, or Lal Mirch, are a must-have in your kitchen to add spiciness and colour to your dishes. Used either as a whole or as a powder, red chilli is added in different rice recipes, in vegetable curries and while marinating or preparing meat and seafood recipes.
Red chili powder helps improve your immunity, helps in digestion and prevents chronic illnesses as it is a good source of antioxidants.
3. Coriander
Derived from cilantro, coriander seeds are a green spice that is typically used as a powder to infuse aroma and flavour to dishes. They have a lemony and woody flavour. Coriander is usually added to lentils and vegetable dishes, and as stuffing for parathas, cutlets and kachoris.
It is also used in the preparation of spice blends like garam masala and curry powder. Coriander seeds can help maintain blood sugar levels and bad cholesterol, improve bone health and protect the eye.
4. Fenugreek
Dried fenugreek leaves are herbs that add a bitter but earthy flavour to dishes. Known as kasuri methi, these leaves are garnished over popular dishes like Palak Paneer and Butter Chicken to give a musky, earthy fragrance to the dishes.
They are also used to make delicious Methi Paratha by mixing it with whole wheat dough. Before adding to your recipes, you can crush them between your palms to release its unique aroma.
5. Green Cardamom
Also known as Elaichi, green cardamom is a spice with a strong and sweet flavor along with a slight lemony and minty note. It is usually popped open and crushed or grounded before use. Sometimes, the entire pod will be used while cooking pulao and curries to enhance the overall flavor.
Ground cardamom is used in making desserts, teas, spice blends and beverages like hot chocolate. It helps improve liver function, respiratory health and strengthens the immune system.
6. Cumin
Also known as Zeera or Jeera, cumin seeds are used while preparing all types of dals and curries because of their strong flavour and intense aroma. It is grounded and blended with other spices to make various spice mixes.
Cumin seeds are a good source of iron and antioxidants, and help fight off chronic diseases. They also strengthen your immune system and boost your energy.
7. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is the inner bark obtained from the cinnamon tree that is used as an aromatic spice. It is widely used in the preparation of rice dishes like biryani and pulao, and curries like Kadai Chicken. Cinnamons are usually fried at the beginning of cooking Indian dishes as the fat helps release the aroma easily.
The grounded form of the spice is used in baking as well as to make desserts. Cinnamon helps the body fight off infections, reduce inflammations and repair damage to tissues. It is also a good source of antioxidants.
8. Black Pepper
Black pepper is an important ingredient in Indian cooking. It is a dried version of the peppercorn berry that has a spicy and sharp flavour to it. It is used both in whole form as well as in the powdered form to add spiciness to a variety of dishes.
Along with its heat and spicy taste, black pepper also has numerous health benefits. It is a good home remedy for treating cold and sore throat. It also helps to improve your bone health and metabolism.
9. Mustard Seeds
Just like cinnamon and other spices, mustard seeds are also fried in oil at the beginning of cooking to release its sharp, nutty and pungent flavour. These seeds come in black, brown and yellow varieties.
They are used to make a variety of curries, side dishes, pickles and chutneys. They are good sources of antioxidants, and promote healthy skin and digestion.
10. Star Anise
Though star anise is an important part of Chinese cuisine, it is also widely used in Indian cuisine, especially while preparing biryanis and curries. It can be used both in grounded form as well as whole.
The unique flavour of star anise pairs well with seafood, meat and vegetables perfectly. Because of its blend of sweetness and spiciness, star anise is also used for making Indian desserts like halwas and rice puddings.
Indian spices are known for their ability to enhance the taste and aroma of dishes. In addition to this, they also offer medicinal and health benefits that make them excellent additions to your recipes.
The list of Indian spices mentioned in the blog can fulfil all the culinary needs of your kitchen. Have them in your pantry and cook a variety of savoury dishes for you and your family.
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