Spice Gallery

Explore vibrant spices with colourful pictures and detailed descriptions of each. Bong Appetit uses most of them in our dishes

brown wooden chopping board with black beans and brown dried leaves

five gray spoons filled with assorted-color powders near chilli

wooden ladle and chopping board with ginger during daytime

Turmeric has a long history of being used in Indian cuisine. It has been a staple ingredient in Indian cooking for centuries and is known for its vibrant yellow color and earthy flavor. Not only does turmeric add a unique taste to dishes, but it also has numerous health benefits. It is widely recognized for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In Indian cooking, turmeric is added to curries, rice dishes, and even beverages like milk. It not only enhances the flavor of the food but also gives it a beautiful golden hue. Additionally, turmeric is known for its ability to preserve food and is often used as a natural food preservative. Overall, turmeric is a versatile spice that not only adds flavor and color to dishes but also brings a range of health benefits.

Turmeric (haldi)

Red Chili Powder

Red chili powder is made from dried and ground red chili peppers, and is known for its vibrant color and fiery flavor. In addition to adding heat to dishes, red chili powder also has numerous health benefits, such as boosting metabolism, aiding digestion, and providing a good source of vitamins and minerals. It is used in a wide variety of Indian dishes, from spicy curries and stews to marinades and chutneys. The versatility of red chili powder makes it a staple in Indian cooking, and it is often used to add depth and complexity to both vegetarian and meat-based dishes. Whether used as a seasoning or a garnish, red chili powder is an essential ingredient that adds a bold and spicy kick to traditional Indian cuisine.

Cumin Seeds (jeera)

a spoon filled with seeds on top of a white table

Cumin seeds are a staple in many Indian dishes, adding a warm and earthy aroma to curries, rice dishes, and soups. They are used both as seeds or in a powder form. They are also commonly used in spice blends such as garam masala and curry powder. Aside from their culinary uses, cumin seeds are known for their medicinal properties, including aiding digestion, improving immunity, and reducing inflammation. In Indian traditional medicine, cumin seeds are often used to treat various ailments. Cumin works wonders when adding zesty depth to curries, stews, spice blends, and more - aiding digestion, increasing appetite, and cooling the body.

7 ESSENTIAL SPICES

Below are seven essential spices used in Indian cuisines. If you know about their uses, you could cook most Indian dishes.

Coriander Seeds (dhania)

Coriander seeds have been an integral part of Indian cooking, valued for their unique flavor and numerous health benefits. These seeds are commonly used as a spice in curries, chutneys, and marinades, adding a fragrant and citrusy note to dishes. In addition to their culinary uses, coriander seeds are also packed with antioxidants and have been linked to improved digestion and lower blood sugar levels. The history of coriander seeds in Indian cooking dates back to ancient times, with references to their use in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. Today, they continue to be an essential ingredient in Indian cuisine, adding depth of flavor and a touch of warmth to a wide range of dishes.

Cardamom (elaichi)

a pile of green beans sitting on top of a white table

Cardamom, also known as "elaichi" in Indian cooking, is known for its unique flavor and aroma, which adds a depth of taste to both savory and sweet dishes. Cardamom is often used in curries, desserts, and chai tea, providing a warm and slightly citrusy flavor profile. In addition to its culinary uses, cardamom also offers a range of health benefits, including digestive aid, anti-inflammatory properties, and even potential cancer-fighting compounds. Cardamom in Indian cooking dates back to ancient times, where it was highly valued for its medicinal properties and as a symbol of luxury. Available in both green and black varieties, green cardamom is most often used to impart floral and minty notes in sweet and savory dishes.

Cloves (laung)

a spoon full of cloves on a white surface

Cloves are a versatile spice that is commonly used in Indian cooking. With a strong, pungent flavor, cloves are used in both sweet and savory dishes, adding depth and warmth to curries, rice dishes, and desserts. In addition to their culinary uses, cloves also offer a range of health benefits. They are known for their antimicrobial properties, and are often used in traditional medicine to treat digestive issues and respiratory problems. Cloves were highly prized and sought after by traders from around the world, leading to the spice trade that shaped the history of the region. Known for their aromatic and sweet pungent fragrance, have become indispensable to Indian cuisine - particularly meat and rice dishes.

Cinnamon (dalchini)

Cinnamon is often used in a variety of dishes, from sweet to savory, to add a warm and slightly sweet flavor. Aside from its delicious taste, cinnamon also offers a range of health benefits. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and has been used in traditional Indian medicine to aid digestion and improve blood circulation. In addition to its culinary and medicinal uses, cinnamon has a rich history in Indian culture and is often associated with religious rituals and ceremonies. Today, cinnamon continues to be a staple spice in Indian cuisine, adding depth and complexity to dishes while also providing numerous health benefits to those who consume it.

Spice World

There are dozens of different spices along with similar number of herbs that are used in Indian cooking. We are showcasing a few of them that we use regularly.