Top 7 Indian spices

As an Indian, spices have been a part of my normal life. Whichever dish we eat in India, there are a whole lot of exotic spices incorporated  in it. These spices have a strong flavor and a heavenly aroma. Most of the Indians rich or poor, has a diverse set of spices that they use in making curries, tea, breads and meat. I am gonna list 7 of India 's main spices.

• Saffron- one of the most expensive spices in the world. Used in some special drinks and for rice flavoring.  It cost $5000 per kg.  It is obtained from the plant saffron crocus.

• Cinnamon- has an amazing aroma and is produced mainly in the south Indian state of Kerala . Used in cinnamon teas and other dishes.

• Cloves- they are actually flower buds and are extremely strong in flavor. It is used in dishes like biriyanis. States like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka are the largest producers of this exotic spice.

• Turmeric- usually used for its vibrant color. Known as haldi in India and are used in various curries ranging from fish to beef.  Over usage of it may lead to a harsh and unappetizing flavor.

• Pepper- India is a major exporter of pepper ; Europeans were attracted to it and therefore they established trading relationships with India and later invaded it. It is a worldwide seasoning used in most savory dishes.

• Chilly powder- used in most of the spicy savory dishes and  has an attractive red look. It known as lal mirch in which the word lal means 'red' and mirch means 'chilly'. It is extremely hot and it elevates Indian dishes, especially the traditional curries. Kashmir mirch is one of the most renowned chilly in India.

• Green cardamom- used in dishes like payasam; a native delicacy of Kerala in which  milk, spices , sugar or jaggery and some exotic ingredients like vermicelli are added. It has an amazing aroma and are used in masala chai too. It is not advisable to eat it raw.

 

• Garam masala- is a mixture of more than 8 different varieties of spices. Each Indian family has their own secret recipe. They prepare according  to their taste and desires. Anyone can prepare it at their house but the most important thing is to adjust the flavors according to their desires.