Spices Names: A Complete List for Cooking Enthusiasts

Types of Spices with Names

There are different categories of spices used in cooking, each contributing its own unique flavour and aroma to dishes.

1. Whole Spices

• Cumin Seeds (Jeera)

• Coriander Seeds (Dhaniya)

• Fennel Seeds (Saunf)

• Black Mustard Seeds (Rai)

• Fenugreek Seeds (Methi)

2. Ground Spices

• Turmeric Powder (Haldi)

• Red Chili Powder (Lal Mirch)

• Coriander Powder (Dhaniya Powder)

• Cumin Powder (Jeera Powder)

• Ginger Powder (Sonth)

3. Aromatic Spices

• Cardamom (Elaichi)

• Cinnamon (Dalchini)

• Cloves (Laung)

• Nutmeg (Jaiphal)

• Mace (Javitri)

4. Leaf Spices

• Bay Leaf (Tej Patta)

• Curry Leaves (Kadi Patta)

• Mint (Pudina)

• Fenugreek Leaves (Kasuri Methi)

• Coriander Leaves (Dhaniya Patta)

5. Exotic Spices

• Saffron (Kesar)

• Star Anise (Chakri Phool)

• Black Cardamom (Badi Elaichi)

• Caraway Seeds (Shahi Jeera)

• Dried Pomegranate Seeds (Anardana)

Here is a Chart Indian Spices list with names

The List of 30+ Spices Names

Learn More About Common Spices

Below is the list of some common spices that we use regularly

Test Your Knowledge on Spices Names

Task 1: Matching Game

Match the spice with its description.

Task 2: Identify the Spice

Given the description, identify the spice.

1. This spice is known for its sharp, spicy flavour and is one of the most widely used seasonings globally. What is it?

2. Known for its licorice-like flavour, this spice is used in Mediterranean and Indian dishes. What is it?

3. This bright yellow spice is a key ingredient in curries and is valued for its anti-inflammatory properties. What is it?

4. Often used in both sweet and savoury dishes, this spice is made from the bark of a tree and has a warm, sweet flavour. What is it?

5. This spice is commonly used in Indian cuisine to add a depth of flavour similar to onions or garlic, though it has a strong, pungent aroma. What is it?

Task 3: Create a Spice Chart

Create a chart that lists 10 common spices, their flavour profiles, and dishes they are commonly used in.

Task 4: Cooking with Spices

Choose a simple recipe that uses at least three different spices from the list. Have students cook the dish at home and then write a short reflection on how the spices influenced the flavour of the dish.

Task 5: True or False

Decide if the following statements are true or false:

1. Cinnamon is made from the seeds of the cinnamon tree. (False, it's made from the bark)

2. Turmeric is often used in both cooking and traditional medicine. (True)

3. Ginger is used only in savoury dishes. (False, it's also used in sweet dishes like gingerbread)

4. Cardamom is known as the "Queen of Spices." (True)

5. Asafoetida is commonly used to add a sweet flavour to dishes. (False, it adds a strong, pungent flavour)

Here You Go—Check if Your Answers Match the Ones Below!

Task 1: Matching Game

Task 2: Identify the Spice

1. Black Pepper - This spice is known for its sharp, spicy flavour and is one of the most widely used seasonings globally.

2. Fennel Seeds - Known for its licorice-like flavour, this spice is used in Mediterranean and Indian dishes.

3. Turmeric - This bright yellow spice is a key ingredient in curries and is valued for its anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Cinnamon - Often used in both sweet and savoury dishes, this spice is made from the bark of a tree and has a warm, sweet flavour.

5. Asafoetida - This spice is commonly used in Indian cuisine to add a depth of flavour similar to onions or garlic, though it has a strong, pungent aroma.

Task 3: Create a Spice Chart

Task 4: Cooking with Spices

Students should write a reflection after cooking the dish. A sample reflection might include statements like:

• "The cumin added an earthy flavour to the curry, while the ginger gave it a warming spice."

• "The cinnamon in the dessert gave it a sweet, warm aroma that complemented the other ingredients."

Task 5: True or False

1. False - Cinnamon is made from the bark of the cinnamon tree, not the seeds.

2. True - Turmeric is often used in both cooking and traditional medicine.

3. False - Ginger is used in both savoury and sweet dishes, like gingerbread.

4. True - Cardamom is known as the "Queen of Spices."

5. False - Asafoetida is known for adding a strong, pungent flavour, not a sweet one.

Takeaways from this Page

• Students will learn the names of common spices used in cooking, such as turmeric, cumin, and cinnamon, and recognize them by their flavours and appearances.

• They will discover how different spices are used to enhance the taste, aroma, and colour of dishes, both in savoury and sweet recipes.

• Students will gain insight into the cultural importance of spices in various cuisines, especially in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cooking.

• They will learn about the health benefits of certain spices, such as the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric and the digestive benefits of ginger.

• Students will develop the ability to identify spices by their smell, taste, and appearance, helping them become more familiar with these essential cooking ingredients.