Tuesday, January 10, 2017

Indian Spices & Seasonings

Indian food is famous all over the world and has its fair share of connoisseurs. Delicacies such as chicken tikka masala, navratan korma, paneer buteer masala etc. are a rage both in India and overseas. Many have pondered over the question about what makes Indian food so mouthwatering and like many of us, all of them have come to the same conclusion. Its the Indian spices & seasonings that make Indian food so delicious. Authentic spices blend in flawlessly in various food preparations, while adding to their aroma, texture and also flavor. Historically India has always been known as the land of spices, in ancient times traders from faraway lands used to come here for the sole purpose of taking back some varieties of spices to their native countries. Many millenniums may have passed since then but the craze for Indian spices & seasonings is still the same. Simply put, it would be difficult to find a home in India where authentic spices are not used for food preparations. Also, spices are probably one of the most famous Indian export to western countries.

Komal Agency is a Chattisgarh, India based organization that is indulged in processing and supplying of a wide range of Indian spices & seasonings. Apart from authentic spices, the organization also provides cattle feed and basmati rice. Since being established in the year 2012, Komal Agency has been growing steadily, foraying into new markets, with its products being acclaimed everywhere.

Commonly used Indian spices & seasonings
  • Cardamom – Basically of two types, green and black cardamom. Green cardamom has a light and sweet flavor, while the black one is very smoky, hot and should be used with caution.
  • Clove – Used in many Indian delicacies, these provide a strong flavor to food preparations.
  • Black pepper – Everyone of us would be aware of black pepper. It is used widely used in dishes ranging from chicken vindaloo to paneer chilli.
  • Cumin – Cumin is a spice very commonly used in a variety of Indian dishes, it adds a smoky touch to food items.
  • Coriander – One of the oldest known spice in the world, its widely used in dishes such as chicken biryani, chicken tikka masala etc.
  • Mustard seeds – Available in three varieties, namely yellow, black and brown mustard seeds. It provides a nutty and hot flavor to gravy dishes.
  • Turmeric – Probably the most commonly used spice by Indian people. Along with being essentials in all food preparations ( be it daal fry or chicken curry), it also has proven medicinal values.
  • Saffron – The king of spices and also the most expensive spice in the world. When used, provides an aroma that can be sensed even by people standing far away from the food item.
Health benefits of Indian spices & seasonings
  • Consumption of authentic Indian spices is known to increase the body's immune syste.
  • Some Indian spices & seasonings are known to cure ailments such as common cold, cough etc.
  • Seasoning such as coriander aids in weight los.
  • Turmeric (haldi) has known anti inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
  • The ingredients in some spices have been found to be effective in preventing the clogging of arteries.
  • Spices such as cloves, peppers etc. are a popular home remedy for arthritis and also sore muscles.