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Spices are the lifeblood of cooking. They infuse our food with aroma, colour, and flavour, and they tell the story of how cuisine evolved across different cultures and geographies. Every country has its own unique blend of spices, which are used to create signature dishes that are beloved by locals and visitors alike. In this article, we'll explore seven international spice blends and how to use them in your cooking.
Let's start with a brief history of spices. The spice trade dates back thousands of years, with traders and merchants travelling across the world to source the finest spices. Spices were once incredibly expensive and rare and were often used as a currency. The ancient Egyptians used cinnamon to embalm mummies, and the Chinese traded ginger and cloves for silk. Spices were also valued for their medicinal properties, with turmeric used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a range of ailments.
As the world became more connected through trade, spices spread to new regions and became incorporated into local cuisine. In some cases, spices were used to preserve food, as in the case of pickling or curing meat. In other cases, they were used to add depth and complexity to dishes, with spices becoming an essential part of a country's culinary identity.
Whether you're looking to add a little heat, sweetness, or earthiness to your dishes, there's a spice blend out there that can help you achieve your desired flavour profile. So why not take a culinary trip around the world and explore the wonderful world of international spices? Your taste buds will thank you.
Now, let's dive into 7 of the most popular international spice blends and how to use them:
1. Ras el Hanout - Morocco
Ras el Hanout is a Moroccan spice blend that typically includes cinnamon, cumin, coriander, ginger, cardamom, and nutmeg. It is often used in tagines, stews, and couscous dishes, and adds warmth and depth to any dish. Try using it to season roasted vegetables or as a rub for grilled meats.
ASIN ID - B07FVW2HC7
2. Garam Masala - India
Garam Masala is a popular spice blend in Indian cuisine and typically includes cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, coriander, and black pepper. It is often added to curries, soups, and lentil dishes, and can also be used to flavour rice or potatoes.
ASIN ID - B00S4TNQ8W
3. Baharat - Middle East
Baharat is a Middle Eastern spice blend that typically includes black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, cumin, and paprika. It is often used to flavour meat dishes, such as lamb or beef, and can also be used to season rice or vegetables.
ASIN ID - B07D7XLZVT
4. Za'atar - Lebanon
Za'atar is a popular spice blend in Lebanese cuisine and typically includes thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and salt. It is often used to flavour bread, dips, and salads, and can also be used to season roasted vegetables or grilled meats.
ASIN ID - B07L9BSQFG
5. Herbes de Provence - France
Herbes de Provence is a French spice blend that typically includes thyme, rosemary, marjoram, basil, and lavender. It is often used to flavour poultry or fish dishes, and can also be used to season roasted vegetables or potatoes.
ASIN ID - B0731HHYHF
6. Jerk Seasoning - Jamaica
Jerk seasoning is a Jamaican spice blend that typically includes allspice, thyme, garlic, cinnamon, and nutmeg. It is often used to flavour grilled or roasted meats, such as chicken or pork, and can also be used to season rice or beans.
ASIN ID - B076H3G4D4
7. Shichimi Togarashi - Japan
Shichimi Togarashi is a Japanese spice blend that typically includes chilli flakes, Szechuan peppercorns, sesame seeds, dried orange peel, and nori flakes. It is often used to flavour udon or soba noodles, as well as grilled meats or vegetables.
ASIN ID - B08XPPS1Z3
