Kitchen Spices

Turmeric is a spice that comes from the turmeric plant. It is commonly used in Asian food. You probably know turmeric as the main spice in curry. It has a…

The health benefits of tamarind or imli are often not spoken about. But this sour fruit can actually keep your liver and heart safe from diseases. Known for its sweet…

Star anise is actually the hard pericarp of the fruit of the star anise tree, which is scientifically known as Illicium verum. Native to Southeast Asia and parts of China, this hardened…

Sesame seeds that have been in cultivation for thousands of years are perhaps the oldest oil-rich seeds. Known as the ‘queen of oil seeds’, strongly endorsed by Ayurveda and other…

Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world — with 1 pound (450 grams) costing between 500 and 5,000 U.S. dollars. The reason for its hefty price is its…

Whenever we talk about Indian cuisine, the first thought that pops up in our minds is the heat in it. And that's nothing but the kick of chilies. Indian foods…

Poppy Seeds are the nutty oilseeds obtained from the poppy plant, which is a staple condiment apart from garlic and mustard, found in Indian kitchens. Known by the vernacular names…

Anardana refers to the dried and ground seeds of the pomegranate. The name anardana is a Persian portmanteau. Anar translates to pomegranate and dana means seed. Anardana goes by different names depending on where…

India is the land of spices. Walk into the kitchen of a typical Indian household, and you will find a string of containers that are filled with different types of…

The kalonji, or Nigella seeds, is an interesting spice – when used for tempering, it adds a beautiful aroma to the dishes and a hint of flavor that you can’t quite nail.…