Every cook should have a pantry full of spices at their disposal. After all, without spices there would be very little differentiation between dishes, and we would lose the wonderful privilege of being able to journey through the world on our taste buds, adapting the flavour profiles of other cultures to our own cooking.
A spice is a seed, bud, fruit, root, bark, or other substance primarily used for seasoning or colouring food. Available either fresh or dried, the flavour of a spice is derived in part from volatile oils that oxidize or evaporate when exposed to air. Grinding a spice greatly increases the rates of oxidation and evaporation and thus, flavour is maximized by storing a spice whole and grinding when needed.
The health perks of spices are well documented, with this once-precious commodity having been used for thousands of years. Many spices have antimicrobial properties, and can contribute significant portions of micronutrients to your diet. Some even contain more disease-fighting antioxidants than certain fruits and vegetables! Spices are also an inexpensive way to add an abundance of flavour to food without the extra fat or calories.
So, what are you waiting for? Spice up your diet and reap the benefits!
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Make your own Dukkah spice blend!
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Le Creuset Spice Jars
These stoneware jars are perfect for keeping spices in cool and dark conditions to best preserve their flavour, aroma and colour. An airtight seal ensures the best possible environment for storage.
Le Creuset Mortar & Pestle
The friction of the mortar’s unglazed interior against the grinding action of the pestle tip releases the full flavour of herbs and spices; providing the ideal texture and consistency for pesto and other dishes.
Fragrant Chicken Masala
With cardamom, cinnamon, cloves and more, this Indian-style chicken curry is packed full of fragrant flavour. Serve each portion with a dollop of yoghurt and a sprinkling of coriander leaves.
Three Apple Kinds and Five-Spice Powder
This hearty dessert features apples slowly poached in a liquid infused with vanilla and Chinese five-spice. The tagine can be served warm or lukewarm with a scoop of ice cream.
Spiced Chai Latte
This comforting beverage is a delicious take on traditional chai tea. A mixture of aromatic herbs and spices combine to make a steamy, frothy drink which tastes just as good as it smells.
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