Needless to say, spices are the heart and soul of Indian cuisine. Good quality vegetables or meat just don’t taste as good without spices. They can transform simple ingredients into aromatic, flavourful dishes that take our taste buds by storm. Whether you’re an experienced chef or new to the kitchen, buying spices is an important step in your culinary journey. However, with the wide variety available in today’s market, it can be daunting. If you find yourself in a similar situation, you’ve come to the right place. Here are 6 simple things to keep in mind the next time you go shopping for spices and up your cooking game.
Also read: 7 Everyday Indian Spices You Should Keep in Your Kitchen
Before buying any spice, know what effect it will have on the utensils.
Photo Credit: iStock
You must keep the following points in mind before buying spices:
1. Know your spices
Before you step into the spice market, familiarize yourself with the basics. Some common Indian spices include turmeric, cumin, coriander, and cardamom. Understand their flavor, uses, and their contribution to different dishes. For example, turmeric adds an earthy flavor and warm color to curry, while cumin adds a nutty, peppery flavor.
2. Buy whole spices
When shopping, choose whole spices over powdered varieties. Whole spices retain their flavour and aroma longer than ground spices. Buy spices like cumin, coriander seeds and black peppercorns in their whole form. For longer freshness, invest in a good quality spice grinder or mortar and pestle, grinding them as needed ensures your dishes are full of fresh flavours and vibrant colours.
3. Analyze the colors of the spices
Make sure the spices you buy have a bright and consistent color. Dried chili powder should be bright, while black pepper should be a uniform dark black color. Dried herbs should be green, not brown. Use your discretion to avoid spices that look old or dull.
Photo Credit: iStock
4. Buy quality spices
In the market, many brands sell the same spices at different prices. While cheaper options may be tempting, choose organic or high-quality spices to ensure purity and freshness. Transparent containers or packets allow you to inspect the quality and texture of the spice before buying. When buying from local markets, choose vendors who have a frequent footfall of customers and fresh stock.
5. Buy in small quantities
Spices lose their aroma and flavor over time, so buy them in small quantities. Avoid overstocking, even at wholesale markets. Regularly replenishing your spice stock with small, fresh batches ensures that you get the best of their flavor. This practice improves the taste of your cooking to a great extent.
6. Spice Storage
Once you have your spices, store them carefully to ensure they last longer. Airtight containers in a cool, dark place such as a cabinet protect spices from heat, light, moisture, and air, which can deteriorate their quality over time. Glass jars with tight lids are ideal for preserving freshness.
Also read: 6 spices that will boost your weight loss journey
Do you have any other tips to keep in mind before buying spices? Let us know in the comments below!