Cooking is a diverse activity. Everyone has certain practices and preferences that they apply to certain meals. These preferences apply to spices too! So, what spices have you been using in your kitchen, and are you open to trying new ones?
Spices like curry, turmeric, nutmeg, and cinnamon have stolen the spotlight for years, but there are other amazing and flavorful spices that many do not know about and have never even tried. In this article, we will look at some spices that will absolutely blow your mind. Let’s get started!
1. Sumac
Sumac is a burgundy-colored spice of Middle-Eastern origin. Unlike other spices basking in the limelight, this amazing spice has been hidden behind the stage. It has a unique tart flavor akin to that of limes and lemons.
This very uncommon spice can be used in sauces, kebabs, grilled food, or in place of lemon in dishes. It is common in countries like Iran and is often placed on the table alongside salt and pepper. So, if you are feeling quite adventurous, how about you try this spice?
2. Borage
Borage is a star-shaped flower that can be used to garnish dessert or used to make beverages. Want to know what is so fascinating about this plant? It tastes like cucumber! Some freeze the leaves in ice cubes and put them in lemonades or other fruit juices, while others use the young leaves in smoothies or salads.
As the leaves grow older, they become a little prickly, so it’s best to steam them a little. This spice is quite uncommon, and many people have never even heard or seen it before. It is often cultivated in various parts of Great Britain, Europe, North America, and in Eastern Mediterranean regions.
3. Grains of Paradise
Grains of paradise, also called aframomum melegueta, is a seed found on the West African coast. This seed is often used as a spice and a treatment for ailments like diarrhea, snakebites, and stomach aches. The grains are similar to cardamoms and have a pungent taste.
It has a black pepper and citrusy flavor to add to soups, meats, and many other foods. So, do you think you will try it out?
4. Fennel Seeds
Fennel seeds have been used since the times of the ancient Romans and Greeks. This spice originated in the Southern Mediterranean region and is often ground and used in sauces, soups, bread, and more!
Fennel seeds smell sweet and have a sweet licorice taste that you may fall in love with. Most people do not like its pungent taste, but who knows? One try, and you may get hooked.
5. Star Anise
Star anise is a unique spice native to some parts of China and Vietnam. It has a pungent taste that is a blend of sweet, warm, and spicy. Some prefer to use it in pastries as a replacement for cinnamon or nutmeg, but it can also be used in savory meals or to add flavor to meats.
Some people prefer to use the star anise as it is and cook in meals before removing, and others prefer to grind it before using it. Although, it must be used immediately as it is ground, or it would lose its flavor quickly. So, what do you think? Do you want to try this star-shaped spice?
6. Black Pepper
Black pepper is a flavor-filled spice that has a woody, earthy, spicy, and pungent taste. It comes in handy in sauces, stews, salad dressing, and spice meats, fish, and vegetables.
Black pepper gives foods a bolder taste and is one spice you definitely want to try. Its versatility makes it a must-have!
7. Za’atar
Za’atar or zaatar is an exotic herb used in flatbreads, as a rub for meat, or mixed with olive oil as a dip. The herb is a blend of other spices like sumac, sesame seeds, oregano, cumin, marjoram, and coriander.
It is native to the Middle East and the spice blend varies per region. It has a unique and exotic herby flavor and has several health benefits. You’ll love it!
8. Saffron
Saffron is considered one of the most expensive spices in the world because of how it is harvested. This precious spice has a sweet, flowery flavor that is best in seafood dishes, soups, sauces, or stews.
This spice, or “red gold” as it is sometimes referred to, costs over a thousand dollars per pound, so it is definitely not for everyone. But if you would like to try it out, go for it!
9. Juniper Berries
Juniper berries are not true berries. They are tiny blueish-purple cones with a strong spicy flavor and just a hint of pine.
These berries are often used in brines, meat dishes, teas, or to flavor gin because of its strong flavor. This is one of those spices you do not use in everything but make a statement even when used a little. So, take note. You may need it for a special occasion.
10. Asafoetida
Asafoetida is dried sap obtained from the roots of the Ferula plant. It is often used in curries, pickles, meatballs, and more!
Surprisingly, it tastes like a blend of garlic and onions, which makes it a great addition to stews, and vegetarian meals. So, if you are out of garlic and onions, you could use the asafoetida in its place.