Spice Spotlight: Saffron, Cardamon, Curry and Turmeric

The spice trails taken by the Europeans can be traced backward from India to Arabia (formerly Asia Minor) to Africa to Egypt and all the way to the ancient Greco-Roman world. Wars were fought over precious spices and in the end … we all won! Because the end result of the wars and the global spice trade is that these days, exotic spices are readily available, either via online shopping or maybe even at your local grocery store. 

If you would like to learn about the history of spices, here are a couple of links of interest.

• History and Politics, East India Company
• A Short History of Spices

India is not the only country that supplies herbs and spices to Europe and the USA, however, these days, it is a major exporter. The spices which were introduced to the West by way of India include, but are not limited to, cardamom, cassia, ginger, tamarind, curry, and turmeric.

Cardamon is referred to as the "queen of spices".
Do you know which spice is called the “king of spices”? Saffron!
(Although some say it's black pepper. Not me! I'm in the saffron camp.)

The origins of saffron may be disputed. (History of Saffron.) But not its flavor, health benefits, or its recognition as the most valuable spice in the world.

Were I to recommend four (4) spices to turn my mundane everyday meals into extraordinary-everyday dining experiences, it would be:

1. saffron, 
2. cardamon, 
3. curry, and 
4. turmeric.

If I were thinking of a gourmet food gift for an aspiring chef or a friend or relative who wants to improve their cooking skills, it would be one or more of these delightful spices.

Related Links of Interest:
♦ Cardamom-And-Coriander-And-Turmeric Recipes
♦ 15 Recipes that Prove Cardamom Makes Everything Taste Better Recipe
♦ 20 Tasty Turmeric Recipes - Easy Ways to Cook with Turmeric
♦ Foodie Friday : Spice Spotlight: Cinnamon


Source: Previously published on  Webnuggetz.com