I grew up with spices. Being Indian, they’re a part of me.
Some people may find spices intimidating, especially if they were brought up in a household where spices weren’t really used. If you’d like to add some spices to your cooking, but don’t know where to start, I can recommend starting with any (or all) of my favourite ones — turmeric, coriander (seeds) and cumin. They’re on my favourites list because I can use them in many savoury dishes — not just Indian — to add some pizzazz and yumminess.
Coriander and cumin, perhaps, are more versatile than turmeric — and when lightly toasted and ground, they release their spicy notes and heady aromas (oh, how I love that smell!). Added bonus — these two balance each other flavours, because one is pungent (cumin) and the other is cooling (coriander).
Turmeric, on the other hand, I use for adding colour and medicinal reasons (it has anti-inflammatory properties).
These three don’t generate the same intensity of some other spices, which can overpower or leave your tummy (and mouth) burning. For this reason, turmeric, coriander and cumin are perfect for using in dips, soups, tomato-based pasta sauces, casseroles, vegetable curries and stews. At times, I also use coriander and cumin in salads, raita, dukkah, and for roasting vegetables.
Spices have concentrated flavours, so they’re best used in small amounts. With my favourite 3, you can start with ½ tsp to 1 tsp each, (in ground form). For turmeric, I generally don’t go over 1 tsp. For coriander and cumin, it’s best to lightly dry roast and grind before using. As you get used to these spices, have a play with amounts, and see what your taste buds like.
Here’s to spicing up your life,
Lesh x
gosh, imagine a life of cooking without spices!
cumin is my fave – used in so many cuisines it’s indispensible, i reckon.
(also loving your potato and radish leaf curry, lesh…YUM)
I couldn’t imagine such a thing! how bland life would be?! Thankfully we don’t have to worry about that
Thanks, the potato and radish leaf curry was pretty yummy. If you try it, let me know how you go.
Nice post! I’ve been adding turmeric here and there in my dishes lately, just to make them that bit healthier. I also love the fragrance of coriander seed. Cumin is one that I should use more often but I never seem to get around to it.
Thanks leaf
Cumin works well with coriander (I actually like cumin better than coriander). Hope you give it a try. You won’t look back.
Hey Lesh,
Great choices. I also love cardamon for its distinct aroma and flavour, particularly in sweets.
Yes, I love cardamom. It reminds me of my mum’s homemade sweets. I’m assuming the Greeks use it in their treats to? The smell of it takes me back to my younger days and how we celebrated Diwali in Fiji.
they are definitely my favourite ones too!!! cooking is all about spices for me!
Spices: once you discover them, it’s almost impossible to make something without them.
Oh yes, I agree, turmeric, coriander and cumin are wonderful spices. Mind you it took me a while to really appreciate turmeric. I always thought it was bland and just a pretty colour, until I tried turmeric purchased from the local Indian store. Oh my that stuff is good.
Glad you finally fell in love with turmeric. Have you dried the organic stuff? It’s even more potent. In a good way.