Spices and Ingredients
Spices and basic ingredients are the most important things you need when you think of cooking Indian food. There are many different spices that are used in the country depending on the climatic conditions.
India is a diverse country in terms of geography as well as culture. The use of spices and ingredients varies depending on what is grown locally. Rice is majorly grown in the eastern and southern parts and so is a staple there. Whereas, in northern and western India, Jowar, Bajra and Wheat are a major part of the staple diet.
Spices – The Backbone of Indian Cooking
Indian cuisine is known for its rich and diverse flavors, and much of that can be attributed to the use of spices. India is home to a wide variety of spices that not only add flavor and aroma to food but also offer numerous health benefits. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular Indian spices and their benefits.
You need to prepare your “Masala Dabba” before you begin cooking.
Mostly the Masala Dabba has the following spices:
1. Red Chilli Powder – The metabolism booster
Red chili, also known as red pepper or cayenne pepper, is a hot spice that is commonly used in Indian cuisine and other cuisines around the world. It is made from dried and ground chili peppers and has a bright red color and a pungent, spicy flavor.
Red chili is a rich source of vitamin C and contains several other vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, potassium, and iron. It also contains capsaicin, a compound that gives chili peppers their spicy flavor and has been found to have several health benefits.
2. Turmeric Powder – The Golden Spice
Turmeric is a bright yellow spice that is commonly used in Indian curries and other dishes. It contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric is also believed to help in the prevention of cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Read the benefits of this golden spice here.
3. Jeera or Cumin – The Digestive Aid
Cumin is a popular spice that is used in a variety of Indian dishes. It is known to aid in digestion and help relieve gas and bloating. Cumin is also rich in iron, which makes it a great spice for vegetarians and vegans who may not get enough iron from their diets.
4. Rai or Black Mustard seeds – The Tempering King
Mustard seeds are small, round seeds that come in yellow, brown, and black varieties. They have a pungent, spicy flavor and are commonly used in Indian cuisine as a seasoning for pickles, chutneys, and curries. Mustard seeds are also used to make mustard oil, which is used in cooking and as a massage oil.
5. Garam Masala – A Warm and Fragrant Spice Blend
Garam masala is a popular spice blend that is commonly used in Indian cuisine. It typically contains a mix of warm and fragrant spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cumin, coriander, and cloves. Garam masala is often added to curries, stews, and soups to add depth and flavor.
6. Dhaniya or Coriander Powder – The Cooling Spice
Coriander is another popular spice that is used in Indian cooking. It has a slightly sweet and citrusy flavor and is known to have cooling properties, making it a great spice for hot summer months. Coriander is also rich in antioxidants and has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Apart from these “Masala Dabba” essentials, there are some other must have spices in the Indian Kitchen.
Asafoetida: A Pungent Spice with Medicinal Properties
Asafoetida, also known as hing, is a pungent spice that is commonly used in Indian cuisine. It has a strong, onion-like flavor and is often added to dishes like curries, lentils, and stews. Asafoetida is also believed to have several medicinal properties, including its ability to aid digestion and relieve gas and bloating.
Cardamom: The Aromatic Spice
Cardamom is a highly aromatic spice that is commonly used in Indian sweets and desserts. It has a sweet and spicy flavor and is known to help with digestion and freshen breath. Cardamom is also rich in antioxidants and has been found to have antibacterial properties.
Cinnamon: The Sweet Spice
Cinnamon is a sweet spice that is commonly used in Indian desserts and chai tea. It has been found to help regulate blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol levels. Cinnamon is also rich in antioxidants and has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Cloves: The Anti-inflammatory Spice
Cloves are a pungent spice that is commonly used in Indian spice blends and chai tea. They contain a compound called eugenol, which has anti-inflammatory properties. Cloves are also rich in antioxidants and have been found to have antimicrobial properties.
Ginger: The Immune Booster
Ginger is a spicy root that is commonly used in Indian cooking. It is known to aid in digestion and help relieve nausea and vomiting. Ginger is also rich in antioxidants and has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties. It is also a great immune booster and is often used to fight colds and flu.
Indian spices not only add flavor and aroma to food but also offer numerous health benefits. From the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric and cloves to the digestive aid of cumin and the immune-boosting properties of ginger, Indian spices are a treasure trove of flavors and health benefits. So, the next time you cook an Indian dish, be sure to include some of these amazing spices!
Basic Ingredients
Apart from the wondrous spices, you need to have the following basic ingredients in your kitchen:
- Chawal or Rice – This can be any rice of your choice. You may opt for brown rice too!
- Tur Dal or Red Gram Dal – To cook everyone’s favorite ghar ki dal.
- Moong Dal or Split Green Gram – The core ingredient of the super comforting Khichadi.
- Ghehun ka atta or Wheat Flour – To make various tasty and healthy parathas.
- Rava or Semolina – To make the delicious desserts and savories.
- Besan/Chane ka Atta or Gram Flour – Make savory pancakes and pakodas with this amazing ingredient.
- Poha or Beaten Rice – A super healthy breakfast.
- Daliya or Broken Wheat – A protien rich breakfast.
- Cooking Oil – The basic ingredient of most recipes.
- Ghee/Butter – Another must have for making sweets.
These ingredients can be used in a variety of ways to create delicious and nutritious Indian meals. They are easily available in the local shops and marketplaces. You can select the brand which suits you best.
Looking for new and exciting recipes to try out with these flavorful spices and appetizing ingredients? Look no further! Our collection of recipes features a wide variety of flavors, from spicy Indian curries to sweet dishes. With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, our recipes are perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
Give them a try and take your taste buds on a culinary adventure!
Tag @flavorsfromindia on Instagram and hashtag it #anuyasrecipes if you happen to try these recipes.