Indian cuisine is renowned for its complex and bold flavours, which are achieved through the use of a wide variety of spices and herbs. These ingredients not only add taste to the dishes, but they also have many health benefits. Turmeric, for example, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and is a staple in many Indian curries and dishes. Cumin is another commonly used spice in Indian cooking, it adds a warm and nutty flavour to dishes, and it is known for its digestive benefits. Cardamom is a fragrant spice that is used to add a unique flavour to dishes, it's used in sweet and savoury dishes like biryani, curries, and desserts. Coriander, both leaves and seeds, are widely used in Indian cooking, the leaves add a fresh and slightly citrusy flavour to dishes, while the seeds are used as a spice in many Indian dishes. These ingredients are essential for Indian cuisine, and they bring an authentic taste of India to your kitchen.
Nearly all of the ingredients listed can now be obtained from large supermarkets in the UK. In case you have difficulty finding any particular spice, Amazon can also be a helpful source.
Most towns in the UK now have an Asian grocery store, and visiting these not only familiarises you with a wider range of spices but also offers the opportunity to save money on purchases.