Why are spices and herbs important in Indian cookery?

Spices are known as one of the most remarkable ingredients of the Indian cuisine. Without the spices, the exotic flavors of the Indian food don't come out. The spices and the herbs are also a prominent reason why the Indian food has become so favorite among the people across the globe. read more

Spices and herbs are part of most of the ancient and traditional food habits, based on the strong belief that 'food is medicine'. Spices are mainly added for it's unique flavor and taste, that provides the completeness of any particular recipe. read more

One of the things that people find intimidating about cooking Indian food is the vast array of spices used — both whole and ground, which are often combined into complex spice mixes. However, having taught classes on Indian food, I find that as soon as people are able to identify and understand the spices we use, then suddenly they find this cuisine is not as hard to make after all. read more

Spices can improve the palatability and the appeal of dull diets or spoiled food. Piquant flavors stimulate salivation and promote digestion. Pungent spices can cause sweating, which may even cause a cooling sensation in tropical climates; on the other hand they can add a sense of inner warmth when present in cooked foods used in cold climates. read more