Also known as the ‘Queen of Spices’, cardamom is to Indian cooking what vanilla is to the west. Cardamom is a spice consisting of whole or ground dried fruits, or seeds, of Elettaria cardamomum, a herbaceous perennial plant of the ginger family. The seeds have a warm, slightly pungent, and highly aromatic flavour somewhat reminiscent […]

It has been proven that chillies are also a good source of antioxidants. Forty-two grams of the spice would account for your recommended daily allowance of vitamin C, although admittedly that would make for a very hot curry! They are also rich in vitamin A, as well as minerals such as iron and potassium.

Cinnamon is a spice that is made from the inner bark of trees scientifically known as Cinnamomum. It has been used as an ingredient throughout history, dating back as far as Ancient Egypt. It used to be rare and valuable and was regarded as a gift fit for kings. Traded around the world since before […]

The dry fruits are coriander seeds. The word “coriander” in food preparation may refer solely to these seeds (as a spice), rather than to the plant. The seeds have a lemony citrus flavour when crushed, due to terpenes linalool and pinene. It is described as warm, nutty, spicy, and orange-flavoured. Health Benefits of Coriander Coriander […]

Cumin is a spice made from the seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant. Many dishes use cumin, especially foods from its native regions of the Mediterranean and Southwest Asia. Cumin lends its distinctive flavour to chili, tamales and various Indian curries. Its flavour has been described as earthy, nutty, spicy and warm. Health Benefits of […]

Turmeric is a spice that comes from the turmeric plant. It is commonly used in Asian food. You probably know turmeric as the main spice in curry. It has a warm, bitter taste and is frequently used to flavour or colour curry powders, mustards, butters, and cheeses. Health Benefits of Turmeric Turmeric and especially its […]