Indian foods have gained a lot of popularity in the last few years, and they will gain more popularity in the future too. The demand for Indian cuisine is rising, and that’s why more and more people are wondering about which is the right Indian market near me. If you are among the people who are addicted to or fascinated by Indian foods, you might have wondered what makes Indian foods so unique. Well, here’s the answer.
It’s All About the Ingredients
One thing that makes Indian foods so mouth-watering is ingredients. Indians use some interesting spices and do unique flavor pairings to ensure that the food tastes delicious. The overlapping flavor compounds help in ensuring that Indian dishes are tastier than other cuisines. Here you can know about the common ingredients that make Indian food so delectable.
- Coriander
The use of coriander leaves and seeds is very common in Indian dishes. It can be added as a seed, or it can be toasted and grounded to be used as a spice. Coriander leaves are largely used to garnish the foods and make them look better. Coriander is a key component in Garam Masala, another Indian spice that’s very commonly used. The flavor of coriander is described as nutty or fruity. It also helps digest the food and is often used for medicinal purposes like helping you settle an upset stomach.
- Cumin
Most of the Indian curries are made by using this aromatic spice. People use cumin as seeds, toast it, or even ground it. Though it can be slightly bitter, cumin adds a warm and earthly flavor to your meals and make them special. You can use it with other spices to make your curries more delectable.
- Ginger
Ginger is often used in Indian cooking to add a peppery flavor to Indian foods. It would help if you stored it in a refrigerator or freezer to retain its freshness. It might spoil quickly at room temperatures. You can grate the ginger or finely chop it when you use it in Indian cooking. Ginger powder is also an option if you don’t have much time to chop and grate it.
- Turmeric
Another commonly found ingredient in Indian households, turmeric, adds flavor and pretty yellow color to foods. It is commonly used in most curries. These days, people appreciate it as healthy food and use it widely as it has many anti-inflammatory properties.
- Mustard Seeds
Most Indian dishes require the use of mustard seeds. The black mustard seeds are commonly used, and they have a stronger flavor as compared to white or yellow seeds. Brown mustard seeds also exist, but they aren’t very commonly found. You can add the mustard seeds to oil and toss for a while so that they pop and split. Then you need to add other ingredients or use them to add extra flavor or tadka to soups and vegetables. Mustard seeds need to be stored in a tightly sealed container that should then be placed in a cool and dry place.
- Cardamom
Another thing that makes Indian cooking unique is cardamom. It loses freshness quickly, so you need to pay attention to its storage. Also, make sure that you use it in moderation because it can ruin the taste of food and overpower other ingredients if used in excess.
- Cinnamon
Add a delicate sweetness to Indian recipes by using cinnamon. It is rich in antioxidants, so it can help reduce cholesterol in the body. It is also useful for people with diabetes as it can help stabilize your blood sugar levels.
Final Words
All in all, it is clear that Indian cooking is easy, and what makes it unique are the amazing spices Indians use. You can try Indian cooking with fresh vegetables or even by using the best freezing vegetables. The spices will help you make unique dishes that all will relish. To buy Indian cooking ingredients, you can trust Swagat Grocery. We are a leading provider of Indian groceries that stocks up on all essentials of Indian cooking and offer great quality products at the best prices. We also deliver at your doorstep and ensure that we follow all COVID-19 precautions. Call now to place your order.