India is one of the countries of the world with a rich and diverse cultural heritage. India has always been known for its delicious, spicy foods and beautiful traditions. Indian spices give these foods a heavenly taste, and the aromas are unforgettable.
image source: Pixabay.com
Some of these spices – such as coriander, celery, mint, cumin, etc. – are also medicinal. They are known to cure a wide range of diseases from cough and the common cold to malignant tumors. This is the primary reason why Indians can’t do without adding these spices to their cuisine. Although a few countries around the world also produce their spices, they are incomparable to Indian spices, especially in attributes. These spices have started garnering a lot of attention in western countries as well.
The Unique Flavor of Indian Spices
No Indian cuisine is complete if there are no spicy flavors. Different kinds of Indian dishes call for various types of spices so that the food can be well-flavored and incredibly tasteful.
Commonly Used Spices
Some of the spices that are widely used in Indian cuisine include:
- Ginger
- Coriander
- Black pepper
- Asafetida
- Black mustard
- Cardamom
- Fenugreek
- Poppy seeds
- Anardana
- Aniseed, etc.
All these spices find one use or another in various Indian dishes. A few of them are also used in the manufacture of cosmetics, medicines, and pharmaceuticals. Ground mustard and cloves are used for preservation of food for extended periods.
Different Categorization
Indian spices can be categorized into the following sections:
Leaves
The most popular types of leaves used as spices in India include:
- Curry leaves
- Peppermint
- Mint
- Rosemary leaves, etc.
Most Indian dishes today enjoyed by everyone use mint leaves, which give the dishes a distinctive flavor. Coriander leaves are also much revered and used in preparing Indian cuisine as well. Asides the refreshing aroma that these leaves give Indian cuisine, they also have medicinal properties. They contribute positively to the process of digestion and improve appetite significantly.
Roots
Although these roots are commonly used in the preparation of different foods around the world, Indians use them the most. Root spices include:
- Turmeric
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Onion, etc.
Turmeric has antiseptic or anti-bacterial properties and is also employed in a wide range of cosmetics or other beauty products.
image source: Pixabay.com
Flowers
Some of the most popular flowers utilized in Indian dishes include:
- Caper
- Saffron
- Cloves
- Asafetida
- Black pepper
- Rose, etc.
These popular varieties of flowers are used for the rich and unique aroma they add to foods. They are not only extensively available but are also exported to numerous countries as well.
Bark
This is one of the most used and popular varieties of spices in India. It is also available in other parts of the world is cinnamon. This spice is known for its intense flavor or rich aroma. The savory taste of cinnamon is one of the reasons why it is used in several Indian dishes.
Conclusion
Spices are no longer just for the Indian people, but for many individuals from around the world who are interested in spicing up their foods. These spices have received lots of acclaim from around the world. This is due to their health benefits, distinct aroma, and flavor they add to meals.
