A Handful of Spices

The art of roasting , grinding and storing Indian spices

A spoonful of coriander, a few peppercorns, fragrant cardamom and a stick of cinnamon. The spice box is one of the most familiar sights in an Indian kitchen.

The collection of spices may differ from one home to another, yet these small ingredients can change the character of a dish completely. Their aroma reaches us before the first bite, and even a small change in proportion can give a familiar recipe a different flavour.

Much of this comes from the natural oils and aromatic compounds found in spices.

“The way spices are roasted, ground and stored can affect the aroma and flavour they bring to a dish.”

When spices are roasted :

Gentle heat helps release the aromatic compounds in whole spices, making their fragrance more noticeable.

Cumin becomes warmer and more fragrant. Coriander develops a fuller aroma. Pepper becomes more pronounced.But spices need careful handling.

Too little heat may not bring out their full aroma, while excessive heat can burn them and introduce bitterness. The aim is to warm them enough to develop their fragrance without scorching them.

Whole or ground spices

Whole spices generally keep their aroma for longer because their aromatic oils are protected within the seed, pod or bark.

Grinding exposes more of these volatile oils to air so the aroma becomes less pronounced with time.

Freshly ground spices therefore have a particularly fresh fragrance.

For everyday cooking, however, good-quality spice powders are often more convenient. When stored properly, they can retain their aroma and flavour well.

Keeping spices fresh

Whether whole or ground, spices keep their aroma best when protected from air, moisture, heat and light.

Storing spices in clean, dry and airtight jars with well-fitting lids ,away from stove or direct sunlight is one of the best way . Glass jars are a good choice and make it easy to see what is inside.

It is also worth keeping steam away from the jar. Opening it over a hot pan can introduce moisture, which may cause the powder to clump and affect its quality.

Buying smaller quantities when a spice is used only occasionally can also help maintain its freshness and aroma .

Spice blend & its character

The same handful of spices can produce very different results.

Coriander brings a rounded, slightly citrus-like note. Cumin adds warmth. Fennel brings a gentle sweetness. Pepper contributes heat, while cloves and cinnamon bring distinctive, more assertive aromas. The proportions matter, but so do freshness, roasting and grinding.

Across India, generations of cooks have made these adjustments according to local ingredients, regional traditions and personal preference. This is one reason spice blends can vary so much even when they contain many of the same ingredients.