Cloves are commonly found in Indian spice mixtures.
Spices are integral to Indian cooking. Masalas are dry curry mixtures that form the base of many Indian dishes. Although masalas vary from region to region, there are certain spices that appear in nearly every one. Indian spices can be purchased in bulk either online or at Indian markets. These spices are often colorful and fragrant, and in the right combination, they impart a decidedly Indian flavor to the cuisine. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Cardamom
Cardamom is one of the world's oldest spices. It is the ground seed of a tropical fruit in the ginger family. The seeds are found in fruit pods that are oval in shape. Cardamom is one of the most expensive spices, second only to saffron. It is warm, aromatic and slightly sweet.
Coriander Seeds
Coriander is likely native to the Middle East, but it also has been used in India for a millennia. Coriander seeds are spherical with one side slightly flattened. The fresh leaves of the coriander plant are used in Indian and Mexican cooking; the leaves are known as cilantro in Mexico. Coriander seeds impart a warm, citrus flavor, similar to orange peel.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon has been used throughout history as both a spice and a medicine. It comes from the bark of the cinnamon tree and tends to be very fragrant and sweet. There are two varieties of cinnamon: Chinese and Ceylon.
Cumin
Cumin is a member of the parsley family. Much of the cumin used in the United States comes from India, and it is common in many cuisines. It has a floral, savory flavor and is nearly always found in masala spice mixes.
Cloves
Cloves have been used throughout history as medicine, a numbing agent, as a preservative and for flavoring dishes. Cloves are very intense in flavor and aroma; they impart a slightly sweet, spicy taste. Cloves are used in many Indian spice mixtures and in Chinese Five Spice.
Chilis and Chili Powder
In India, the red chili pepper is used to provide heat to curries and other dishes. They can be used fresh, but are often dried and ground for masala blends. Chili powder tends to lose its heat and flavor the longer it ages.
Turmeric
Turmeric is often used to make curry and is known for its bright yellow color. It has been used as a dye and as a healing remedy. Turmeric is sometimes used in place of saffron, as saffron is rare and expensive. It has a peppery taste with a mild fragrance reminiscent of citrus.
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