2024 Author: Jasmine Walkman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 08:29
The spices have been known to humans since ancient times and have been used by man for almost his entire historical development. From aromatic herbs, fruits and roots used in religious rituals in ancient times, to widespread use in cooking, this is the long way in which the use of aromatic additives by nature has developed.
Oriental spices they have always occupied a particularly important place and are highly valued. Columbus discovered a new continent in his attempts to find a way to India, which is known as the land of spices. The culinary arts of India and Indonesia, where there are the most spices, are especially highly valued.
Although spices do not make it difficult for people to add to dishes today, it is necessary to know them well in order to fully reveal the wealth of possibilities and give an unforgettable taste. Knowledge of them is necessary, to be aware of how to store and combine them, so that their use is truly an unforgettable culinary experience.
The choice of spices
It is best to buy whole spices to grind immediately before use, because pre-ground ones are not stored properly in most cases and quickly lose their aroma and taste. If you buy spices in ground form, it is appropriate that it be from a specialty store, where they are stored in suitable containers or hermetically sealed packaging by the manufacturer.
Storage of spices
Spices should be stored in tightly closed containers in a place free of direct sunlight and without moisture. Humidity, direct sunlight and high temperatures change the taste of spices.
How are spices prepared for use?
Whole spices should be used to grind just before use. Electric coffee grinders or grinders designed specifically for this purpose are suitable for this purpose. This will add a unique flavor to the dish.
Here are some of the most commonly used oriental spices and their brief characteristics.
Cloves
A good clove clove should be greasy when rubbed on the hand and be reddish-brown in color. It is used for both cakes and meat. It has a well-defined antiseptic effect.
Ginger
Sold dried powder or cut into circles. In the case of fresh ginger, the root must be smooth. It is used as a spice in baking, but is a good solution for salads and can be used in drinks.
Cardamom
Pale cardamom pods in green color are used to flavor confectionery and beverages. Cardamom seeds, which are spicy in taste, can also be used.
Coriander
Fresh green pods and seeds are widely used as a spice in all dishes.
Cinnamon
This is a spice from an evergreen plant that can be bought whole sticks or ground. A good solution is to fry the whole stick in a dry pan and grind just before use. It is used mainly in sweet foods.
Turmeric
It is a bright yellow powder from the dried root of a plant from the ginger family. It is used to give color to rice and a pleasant and fresh aroma of soups, vegetable dishes and various types of snacks.
Dill
It is also called sweet cumin. There are long pale yellow seeds with anise flavor. It is used in roasting meat dishes, as well as in the composition of marinades.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is usually used as a spice in puddings, sweets with milk, but also in meats and pâtés.
Saffron
The aroma of this bright red spice is incomparable. It is used to give a strong red tint to rice, as well as to flavor it, as well as in cakes and drinks.
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