One of the first things people think of when they think of Indian cuisine is the spices. Why? Because these ingredients are what truly makes an Indian Dish. 

Spices are used in various ways in traditional Indian recipes. What's crazy about these spices is that when you shift your technique, it totally changes the way a spice translates in the recipe, providing you with a different flavour experience. That is why the best Indian restaurants' most prized possession would most probably be their spice rack, alongside their recipe book. 

If you're curious to know more about Indian spices, keep reading. In this article, we'll go through some of the most popular and flavourful spices in the world. Trust us—you'll find your tummy grumbling towards the end, wanting a taste of them all!

• Cayenne: Definitely a spice staple, the cayenne people—even if it's tiny—can truly pack a punch and heat up an entire pot of curry. This spicy ingredient originated in the Cayenne region of French Guiana and is made by grinding up the skin of the chilli peppers and turning them into powder. In most cases, cayenne is a substitute for Indian red chilli pepper. 
• Cloves: A native of the Maluku Islands in Indonesia, these flower buds are harvested from clove trees and is considered an important ingredient in the Indian Biryani. A clove provides intense aroma and flavour to a dish, with sweet and bitter notes that blend beautifully with garam masala and other spices.
• Garam Masala: Garam masala roughly translates to "hot spice" and is another staple integral to hundreds of Indian recipes; that's why the best Indian restaurants will always have this. This fragrant mixture boasts cinnamon, pepper, cumin, coriander, nutmeg, and more. You'll certainly get a rich, spice infusion that will up any Indian dish with this blend. 
• Garlic: Garlic is another most extensively used ingredient in Indian cuisine. In Indian cuisine, you'll most often find this crushed in naan bread or diced in sauces and meet for a punchy flavour. 
• Fenugreek: Most often used in madras powder, fenugreek brings in the signature smell and taste of Indian dishes, such as curry. This little seed gives a bittersweet note with impressive maple syrup undertones, reducing when you fry a dish. Because it's so potent, it's best to use it sparingly. 
• Cardamom: This spice belongs to the ginger family and is one of the most expensive spices in the world since they're hand-harvested and require manual work. The green cardamom gives a mild tone, while the black cardamom gives a spicy and smoky flavour. 

The Bottom Line: Indian Spices are a Key Ingredient for any Indian Dish

Although these are only some of the few spices that the best Indian restaurants use, it only makes sense to familiarise yourself with these spices, so you know what to expect in every dish.

These spices are incredibly unique; that's why when they are added to any Indian dish, it totally transforms the whole creation. So, if you want to go on an Indian cuisine trip and be amazed at the power of these spices, head over to the best Indian restaurant near you and start ordering away!

How Can We Help You?

If you're looking for the best Indian restaurant in London, you've found it. Tower Tandoori is considered the best of the best when it comes to traditional Indian food. Considered one of London's oldest Indian restaurants, Tower Tandoori can help satisfy your hunger for authentic Indian delicacies. Book a table today!