Our Ultimate Guide to Indian Spices and How They Taste

8 April 2021

One of the reasons Indian food is well-loved all of the world is because of the unique blend of spices each dish holds. Each spice has distinct flavours and interesting aromas that play beautifully with our senses, giving us an unparalleled gastronomical experience every time.

Indian spices are grown in India and nearby regions of Asia. Because of the unique geographic features of these regions, they produce spices with bold flavours and aromas. Because Indian cuisine continues to gain popularity in the west, you'll find the best Indian restaurant around London Bridge, like Tower Tandoori, using only the best Indian spices for their dishes.

When you're trying Indian food for the first time, you may get overwhelmed by the colourful array of Indian spices used in every meal. But don't worry — our Indian spice guide will help you familiarise yourself with authentic Indian recipes. Let's take a look!

Ultimate List of Ground Indian Spices

Powdered or dry, crushed versions of ground Indian spices are convenient ingredients that chefs add in various Indian dishes as it provides so much flavour and colour to the plate.

Knowing the different spices used in Indian cuisine will help you get a picture of what you're ordering in Indian restaurants around London Bridge, like Tower Tandoori. Here are some of the most common Indian spices:

Turmeric Powder or Haldi: This type of spice comes from the turmeric plant and is often found in various Indian and Asian food. The flavour profile of turmeric is slightly bitter and gives a warm flavour.

Turmeric powder is often used in curry powders, cheeses, butter, and mustard as its aroma is quite mild and smells similar to ginger and orange.

Red Chile Powder or Laal Mirchi: Red chile is an Indian spice made from red chile peppers and is different from the chilli powder spice that Tex-Mex cuisine uses. Laal Mirchi contains cayenne and other Indian spices and adds a fantastic kick to the dish. Besides its fiery factor, it also adds a slightly red colour to Indian dishes.

Garam Masala: One of the most popular Indian spices used is garam masala. This blend of spices is often toasted before chefs grind it to help bring out the natural flavours and activate its aroma. The spices in garam masala include cumin, black pepper, clove, cinnamon, and cardamom.

Cumin Seeds or Jeera/Zeera: There are several cumin varieties, but the one most often used in Indian cuisine has a yellowish-brown colour. This spice has a warm, earthy flavour and a unique aroma, adding zest to curry dishes.

Mustard Seeds or Rai: Made from mustard plants, mustard seeds come in different colours and give off distinct flavours. Yellow mustard is sweet and spicy, brown mustard has a bitter taste, and black mustard is hot and gives a sharper bite.

Cumin and Coriander Power or Dhana Jeera: This type of powder is a blend of two spices and is used on vegetables, curries, and soups, giving them an outstanding balance of flavour. Cumin and coriander powder has a tangy lemon flavour, both having a sweet and strong taste.

The Bottom Line: Indian Spices Make Indian Cuisine One of the Best in the World

Because of the unique flavour profile of each type of Indian spice, it comes as no surprise that Indian cuisine is loved by many and is a base for many Indian and Asian dishes. If you're craving Indian food and your mouth is watering from our descriptions, it's time for you to head over to an Indian restaurant around London Bridge and fall head over heels for Indian cuisine.

Are You Looking for an Indian Restaurant near Tower Hill?

One of the best cuisines all over the world that you should try is Indian cuisine, and the best place to try is Tower Tandoori in London.

We are one of London's oldest and influential Indian restaurants that serve authentic delicacies that will make you fall in love with Indian cuisine with every bite. Check out our menu and book a table today!

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