Getting to Know Your Spices

Adding spices to food is pretty much like adding color to a painting canvass; it gives it life and vibrancy.

But what are spices to begin with?


A spice is a dried seed, fruit, root, bark or vegetative substance used in nutritionally insignificant quantities as a food additive for flavor, color or as a preservative that kills harmful bacteria or prevents their growth.

One thing to always keep in mind is to use spices that work well together. Always beware that some spices, like Cumin, Cardamom and Cloves which are so powerful in flavor and aroma, can easily overpower other milder spices.

Also, some spices can alter the consistency of certain types of food: Mastic, for example, is a kind of emulsifier that might slightly cloud soups and broths and make them thicker.

Other spices have a strong color that will significantly change the color of food, like Turmeric and the world's most expensive spice: Saffron.


How to buy and store your spices?

• Buy your spices from a good, reputable vendor or spice dealer. It might be a tiny bit expensive, but believe me, its SO worth it! 
• When buying spices, smell -and if possible- taste them. If they don't seem right, they ARE NOT right.
• Buy spices whole (not crushed or ground or grated) and in small quantities. Keep them in airtight containers, and store them away from heat, moisture/ humidity and direct light. Spices are loaded with essential oils that are easily spoiled by the above mentioned harsh conditions!!
• Ground or grate your spices directly before using them. This will give you the greatest flavor and aroma. After all, there's is nothing WORSE than spices that taste like sawdust.

Love,

The Sugar & Spice Girl


To be continued... :)