Spices are the heart of Indian cooking, and of many of the recipes on Culinary Artisan. This guide tells you where each spice comes from, a little of its history, how it tastes, and how to buy and store it. The list will keep growing.
Everyday spices
TurmericHaldi
CuminJeera
CorianderDhania
Green CardamomElaichi
CinnamonDalchini
Black PepperKali Mirch
ClovesLaung
Red ChiliLal Mirch
Mustard SeedsRai
FenugreekMethi- AsafoetidaHing
Fennel SeedsSaunf
SaffronKesar
Garam Masala
More spices to explore
Nutmeg and Mace
Star Anise
Bay LeafTej Patta
Vanilla
GingerAdrak
Paprika
SumacNuts, dry fruits, resins and more
Best spices in the worldThe most prized spices and how the trade shaped history
NutsAlmond, cashew, pistachio, walnut and more
Dry fruitsDates, raisins, figs, apricots and prunesEdible resins and gumsMastic, gum arabic and gond katiraHow to use this guide
This guide gathers the spices, nuts, dry fruits and resins used in the recipes on Culinary Artisan. Each page covers the history, origin, flavor, buying and storage, and links to recipes on this site that use it. Start with a spice you already own, and read how to use it better.
Building a basic spice cabinet
A few spices cover a surprising amount of cooking: cumin, coriander, turmeric, black pepper, red chili, mustard seeds, cinnamon and a good garam masala. Add cardamom, cloves, fenugreek and asafoetida as you explore Indian food, and paprika, oregano and thyme for European and Mexican cooking.
Buying and storing spices
Buy whole spices when you can, since they keep their flavor for a year or more, and grind them in small amounts. Ground spices are best used within six to twelve months. Store them in airtight jars away from heat, light and moisture, and avoid keeping them above the stove. Smell them before using: if the aroma is faint, it is time to replace them.
A note on sourcing
Spices are often grown by small farmers in India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Vietnam and elsewhere. Where you can, look for fair-trade, organic or traceable spices, and buy from shops with good turnover so that spices are fresh.
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