Spices are one of the oldest components of cuisine. They not only enhance the flavor of dishes but also shape the entire gastronomic culture of different nations. Many spices have been used for thousands of years: once they were so valuable that they became the cause of trade expeditions and even wars. Today, spices are available to almost everyone, but not everyone knows which dishes they are best added to.
In this article, we will look at the most common spices and how they are most often used in cooking.
Black Pepper
Black pepper is one of the most versatile spices in the world. It is made from dried berries of the pepper vine.
Black pepper is most often added to meat dishes: steaks, cutlets, stews, and sausages. It pairs well with soups, vegetables, sauces, and salads. Black pepper is also frequently used in marinades for meat and fish.
Interestingly, freshly ground pepper has a much brighter aroma than pre-ground pepper.
Paprika
Paprika is made from dried sweet or hot peppers. It can be sweet, smoked, or hot.
Paprika is very popular in the cuisines of Central and Eastern Europe. It is often added to:
goulash
stews
potato dishes
soups
sauces
Smoked paprika is especially good with meat, legumes, and grilled dishes.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a bright yellow spice obtained from the root of a plant in the ginger family. It is widely used in Indian cuisine.
Turmeric is added to:
rice
curry
vegetable dishes
soups
sauces
Besides flavor, turmeric gives dishes a characteristic golden color. This is why it is sometimes used as a natural dye.
Cumin
Cumin has a strong, slightly spicy aroma. Its seeds are widely used in European and Middle Eastern cuisines.
Cumin is most often added to:
rye bread
sauerkraut
stewed cabbage
potato dishes
meat stews
Cumin helps to enhance the flavor of rich dishes.
Coriander
Coriander is the seed of the cilantro plant. It has a light citrus aroma.
Coriander is often added to:
meat marinades
sauages
soups
vegetable dishes
breads
In many cuisines around the world, coriander is an important component of spice blends.
Cloves
Cloves have a very rich and strong aroma, so they are used in small quantities.
Cloves are most often added to:
marinades
compotes
mulled wine
desserts
holiday pastries
They are also used in dishes with stewed meat or game.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg has a warm, sweet aroma.
It is often added to:
béchamel sauce
mashed potatoes
pasta
cream soups
desserts and pastries
In European cuisine, nutmeg is often used in dishes with creamy sauces.
Ginger
Ginger is a popular spice with a sharp and fresh taste. It is used both fresh and dried.
Ginger is added to:
Asian dishes
sauces
marinades
fish dishes
cookies and desserts
Ginger is also often used in beverages, such as tea or lemonades.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is one of the most well-known sweet spices.
It is most often added to:
apple desserts
pastries
porridges
coffee and cocoa
mulled wine
In some cuisines, particularly in the Middle East, cinnamon is also added to meat dishes.
Bay Leaf
Bay leaf is one of the most common spices for soups and broths.
It is added to:
soups
broths
stews
sauces
marinades
Typically, bay leaves are added during cooking and removed before serving the dish.
Basil
Basil has a fresh aroma and is a key spice in Mediterranean cuisine.
It is often added to:
tomato sauces
pasta
pizza
salads
vegetable dishes
Basil pairs especially well with tomatoes and olive oil.
Oregano
Oregano has a rich herbal aroma.
It is most often added to:
pizza
tomato sauces
meat dishes
baked vegetables
Mediterranean salads
This spice withstands long cooking well, so it is often added to stews.
Rosemary
Rosemary has a very pronounced aroma with pine notes.
It is used in dishes with:
lamb
chicken
potatoes
baked vegetables
grilled meat
Rosemary is great for marinades.
Spices are a simple way to make dishes significantly more interesting. Even a small amount can completely change the flavor of food. Many spices have universal applications, but each one reveals its best qualities in certain dishes.
By experimenting with spices, one can create new flavor combinations and discover the cuisines of different nations around the world.
Using Spices in Cooking
Black Pepper — meat, fish, soups, salads, vegetables, sauces. It is one of the most versatile spices that goes well with almost any savory dish.
White Pepper — creamy sauces, fish, chicken, cream soups, mashed potatoes. It has a milder aroma than black pepper.
