Indian cuisine is known for its versatility in flavors and these flavors come from different spices that are found in various parts of the country. They play the lead role in adding taste and health to each dish. If you are a health-conscious person and want to switch to healthy food without compromising taste, you can not avoid Indian food as it represents a perfect match of taste and health.

In this article, we have covered some of the most commonly used Indian spices that you must be aware of. Whether you are living in Berlin or in any other part of the world, try Indian food and see how it impresses your taste buds,

Before introducing you to Indian spices, let us show you their benefits.

Benefits of Indian spices

When it comes to taste, Indian spices simply tops the list in the global platform but did you know it has other benefits as well? Here are some of the advantages that you get with Indian spices:

1. Health benefits:

Indian spices have medicinal properties that not only boost your immunity but also help heal wounds and inflammation.

2. Rich flavors:

As mentioned above, Indian spices are the main reason behind the rich flavors and vibrant colors of its food items that magically transform any ordinary dish into a culinary masterpiece.

3. Balances taste:

You will find a perfect balance of sweet, sour, pungent, salty and bitter tastes in every Indian dish. All thanks to the spices that contribute to this process.

4. Versatility:

These spices not only make vegan or vegetarian food extraordinary but also enhance the taste of meat-based food preparations.

5. Cultural essence:

one of the specialties of Indian spices is their cultural background. They have a rich history and traditions that are passed through generations. These are the spices that connect Indians with their cultural roots.

Discover the rich flavors of 10 commonly used Indian spices

Here are some commonly used Indian spices that you should know about.

1. Turmeric

Turmeric is one of the key ingredients of Indian cuisine that is added to almost every preparation. It has an endless number of benefits and It is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. If you are using it for healing purposes then it is recommended for you to use it with a pinch of black pepper. When it comes to a food preparation, it adds both flavor and color to it.

2. Fenugreek

Fenugreek leaves are used in multiple Indian dishes for its rich taste and aroma. Though its seeds are bitter but they have an endless number of health benefits. The leaves are generally added at the end of a cooking process for flavoring and garnishing..

3. Cumin seeds

Cumin seed is used in most Indian curries at the initial stage of cooking which is known as tadka. It is fried in hot oil to add a rich aroma to a dish. It instantly turns brown in high flames but you need to ensure that you don’t burn them. Cumin is used in multiple mixed Indian spices like Garam Masala, Panch phoron, etc to enhance the taste.

4. Fennel

Fennel is another whole spice that is frequently used in Indian Tadkas. It is similar to black licorice and is mostly added to South Indian curries. Indians also prefer to have fennel after meals as mouth fresheners and desserts.

5. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is an active ingredient of Indian cuisine that is available in almost every Indian grocery store near you. This is another popular Indian spice that has a strong flavor. It is one of the main ingredients of Garam Masala. Cinnamon is also known for treating respiratory issues.

6. Asafoetida

The next in our list is Asafoetida or hing which falls under the category of rich aromatic spices. It accelerates the digestion process and is generally added to hot oil to sizzle before putting onions in it. A pinch of hing is enough to add an amazing aroma to a food item. It needs to be kept in an air-tight container for long-term usage.

7. Ginger

The list of Indian spices is incomplete without the mention of Ginger. It is such an ingredient that is mandatorily used in Indian curries along with garlic. It also adds a rich aroma when added to tea. Besides this, ginger is recommended to treat throat infection and cold.

8. Garlic

The combination of ginger and garlic is used in the majority of Indian curries. They work as a flavoring agent in food items. Starting from different types of pickles to spicy meat preparations, garlic is one of the mandatory ingredients in most Indian food items.

9. Garam Masala

Garam Masala is India’s favorite seasoning option. It is a mixture of various dried spices like pepper, nutmeg, cardamom, cumin, coriander and more. You can use it both on vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes in the end for garnishing or along with other masalas.

10. Nutmeg

The usage of nutmeg is mostly seen in South Indian dishes. You can use whole or grated nutmeg in your cooking to add a rich flavor to it. Using nutmeg in tea and sweet dishes is very popular in India.

Bonus tip:

If you are living in Berlin and want to try Indian cuisine or you simply miss Desi food and looking for an authentic Indian vegan restaurant here, Hari Moksh is your ultimate destination. It is one of the best Indian restaurants in Berlin that offers mouth-watering vegan Indian food.

Check out its menu now!

Wrapping up

The list of Indian spices is simply endless but our aim was to introduce you to the most commonly used ones. We hope that this will help you know Indian spices and their benefits.

For authentic Indian dishes, visit Hari Moksh in Berlin.
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