Have you ever thought about what sets apart the festive Indian dishes from the daily ones? The answer is simple, and it is none other than the vibrant spices. From Diwali feasts to Pongal or Poila Boishakh’s celebration, the culinary creations can never reach their apex of taste without the variety of quintessential Indian spices. Spices are the heartbeat of Indian cuisine, and their presence can transform any dish into a masterpiece.
As per statistics, in 78% of households, whole spices are getting prioritised over the other ones. When it comes to whole spices, there are several options available in the marketplace such as cardamom, cumin, cloves and others. These are not just spices, but also act as the storytellers of culture and community. In this blog of JK Cart, an eminent brand of the best indian spices online delivery in India, we will explore 7 whole spices, adding a new flair to the festive special cooking.
Why Are Whole Spices Required For Festive Cooking?
Indian festivals are all about laughter, bright lights and celebration. But imagining a festival without that irresistible aroma of whole foods spices wafting from an Indian kitchen feels utterly impossible. These spices are incorporated in every festive dish from biryanis to kheer for celebrations. This blog will dive into seven must-have whole spices to take the taste to a new level and to make the holiday meals unforgettable. Before identifying the seven spices, it is important to highlight why these are required, especially in the holiday special items.
Intense flavour
Retaining essential oils, these spices release a bold aroma and are more potent in comparison to the ground spices.
Cultural significance
These spices are an integral part of Indian cuisine, and for this reason, they mostly symbolise tradition and hospitality.
Versatility
For both sweet and savoury items, whole spices are used in every type of dish. The versatility of these spices makes them ideal for festive Indian cooking.
Long shelf life
In Indian households, these spices are gaining popularity for their long shelf life. If you can store them properly, you can be rest assured they will stay fresh for years.
Health benefits
The best part of these spices is that they are enriched in antioxidants to support digestion and immunity at the same time.
Top 7 Whole Spices for Festive Indian Cooking
Here are seven spices that you must keep in your spice box to ace festive cooking. Join us as we explore seven essential spices, their unique roles, and practical tips to infuse your holiday cooking with unforgettable taste and warmth.
Cumin
With a warm, and earthy flavour, cumin seeds add depth to biryanis and curries. This one is rich in antioxidants, and its incorporation in food items aids in improving the function of our digestive system. Cumin seeds are also used to prepare festive special beverages.
Clove
Whole cloves are generally warm and pungent, and their usage in meat recipes and festive drinks add a different level of intensity. Health-focused individuals are relying on this spice to reduce inflammation.
Bay leaves
Being subtly aromatic, the bay leaves add a herbal note to every dish from curries to rice. From biryani to dal, this spice can be incorporated everywhere for a different aroma and flavour.
Star anise
Liquorice-like and aromatic, star anise is added in biryanis and garam masala. Whether it's Kolkata-style biryani or something else, by offering an aromatic lift, whole star anise can transform an ordinary dish into an extraordinary one. We recommend removing the star anise once the cooking is done to avoid bitterness in your dish.
Cinnamon
Do you love that woody, sweet and subtle profile? Cinnamon sticks can help you add warmth to the gravies and desserts. Sourced from Sri Lanka and South India, it’s been a prized spice since ancient trade eras, valued in Ayurveda for its blood sugar-lowering properties.
Black pepper
With its sharp and spicy heat, black pepper is generally used in marinades and fusion dishes. They are either crushed or used whole to uplift the taste of the dishes and to add a fiery kick. Grind the black pepper and add it to different dishes for maximum flavour.
Cardamom
Cardamom, with its sweet, floral, and slightly citrusy notes, is India’s festive darling, elevating both savoury and sweet dishes. From premium dishes like Diwali kheer to other desserts and even in biryani, you can add this item to elevate the overall taste.
FAQs
What are whole spices?
Whole spices refer to the dried form of spices that have not been ground yet to create a fine powder. These spices have a long shelf life and fresh flavour in comparison to the ground ones.
What is the king of spices?
Black pepper is known as the king of spices. It is directly sourced from Kerala and is used in dishes for a fiery kick.
What is the most expensive spice?
Saffron is one of the most expensive spices. It is costly as the harvesting process is highly labour-intensive.
Wrapping Up
Whole spices are currently dominating the arena of festive Indian cooking and infusing every dish with tradition, aroma and health benefits. From tempering dals to masala flavoured chai, all you need are whole spices for sale. To source fresh spices, visit the website of JK Cart today!
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