There are various herbs and spices that should be in every kitchen. They each add their own flavor to a dish. Herbs and spices come from all over the world, and some have been used for centuries. This guide goes through the ultimate list of spices and herbs, so keep reading to learn more.
Allspice
The ultimate list of spices and herbs contains ingredients from all over the world. Allspice, for example, comes from the tropical Pimenta tree. It’s a brown berry that’s dried. It’s native to the West Indies and Central America. Allspice was imported to Europe in the 17th century. The berries are green, then they’re fermented, and then dried in the sun. This is what gives them their brownish color. The name allspice comes from its taste, which is like a combination of nutmeg, cinnamon, and clove. This spice has a warm taste. Allspice is commonly used in brines.
Anise
Anise is an annual herb of the parsley family. It’s a fruit that many people believe resembles the flavor of licorice. It’s native to Egypt and the eastern Mediterranean region. Many people think anise and star anise are the same, but that’s not true. They are different, although they have a similar flavor. It’s popular to use anise in desserts or pastries. It also is commonly used when cooking meat and vegetables.
Bay Leaf
Bay leaf is also referred to as laurel bay leaf. Bay leaf is native to the Mediterranean. It’s often confused with the Indian Bay Leaf, which is referred to as tej patta. Bay leaf is a small leaf with one vein that runs through the middle. Bay leaves are fragrant yet bitter to the taste. Bay leaf is usually used for its flavor, but it’s typically removed from the dish after when it’s finished cooking. For example, bay leaf is added to a soup while it cooks but removed before consumption.
Basil
Basil is an annual herb of the mint family. Although you can buy basil fresh, you can also buy it dried. Basil is also referred to as sweet basil. It’s native to India, and it grows best in warm climates. Basil is commonly used in marinades for meat and fish, and it is also an ingredient in pesto. Basil is also commonly a garnish placed atop of dishes.
Black Pepper
Another very popular spice is black pepper. Black pepper is a fruit that grows on a vine, which is then dried and sold. Black pepper native to India, and it’s the number-one selling spice in America. You can find black pepper in nearly every home in America. Black pepper has been used for thousands of years. People a pinch of black pepper to almost every dish. Black pepper is mixed well with many other herbs and spices, which makes it easy to use in nearly every dish.
Cardamom
Cardamom is a spice that is easily identified by its green pods. There are two varieties of cardamom: green cardamom and black cardamom. Green is the more popular of the two. Cardamom has a taste that’s often described as a cross between mint and citrus. It’s native to Asia and often used in Indian cuisine. Cardamom is part of the ginger family. You can buy cardamom whole or ground into a powder. Cardamom is often used with cinnamon and clove. It’s a popular ingredient that’s used to make chai tea, but also adds flavor to various desserts. Cardamom can also add flavor to marinades used to cook meat, such as beef.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is part of the nightshade family. Cayenne is packed with flavor and is used to add spice to many different dishes. Cayenne pepper is hot with a mild aroma. A little goes a long way with cayenne pepper. Cayenne pepper contains vitamins and minerals including calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. Cayenne pepper is commonly found in hot sauce, or you can make some yourself. Cayenne also tastes delicious in a marinade for chicken or beef. Be careful when you cook with cayenne, as it can be spicy. It’s usually best to start with a small amount and add more as you please.
Cumin
Cumin is part of the parley family. It’s native to Egypt and the Middle East. The use of cumin goes back to ancient Greek and Roman times, and it’s still popular today. Cumin is commonly sold ground into a powder, but you can also buy whole cumin seeds. Cumin is a popular ingredient in is Mexican cuisine.
Oregano
Oregano is a perennial herb of the mint family. It’s native to the Mediterranean and western Asia. It’s very popular in Mediterranean cooking, but it’s utilized in many dishes. Oregano is typically bought dried. Oregano is also rich in antioxidants. Many people enjoy oregano on pasta or pizza. You can also mix oregano into soups or sauces. Oregano is a staple ingredient in every kitchen because it’s very versatile.
Rosemary
Rosemary, like oregano, is part of the mint family. It’s native to the Mediterranean region. It’s a perennial plant, which means it lives more than two years. You can buy rosemary fresh from the store; however, rosemary is also commonly sold dried. It adds flavor to many dishes, as it’s a versatile herb. It’s also a good source of iron and calcium. Rosemary goes back to ancient times when it was used for its medicinal healing properties. Many people also believe it improves digestion. Rosemary tastes good in loaves of bread, but also gives meat a delicious flavor.
Turmeric
Turmeric is part of the ginger family. It’s native to Southeast Asia and India. It’s popular all over the world for its health benefits. You can buy the fresh turmeric root, or you can also buy it dried in powder form. Turmeric has many health benefits. For these reasons, you can also find turmeric supplements at health-food stores. It promotes joint, heart, and skin health. Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties as well. You can add turmeric to anything. For example, turmeric is commonly used to add flavor to rice, and it also gives chicken a nice flavor, in addition to tasting good in smoothies and teas.
At iSpice, we offer high-quality herbs and spices. You can also customize your own spice and seasoning set. We’ve supplied crucial ingredients to the food industry for over 30 years. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call.
Alert: While spices can have many beneficial properties for health, using them for medical purposes should be done under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional or specialist. Some spices may interact with medications or cause adverse reactions in certain individuals, and it is important to use them safely and appropriately. If you are considering using spices for a medical condition, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before doing so.
