Spice Blends From Around The World
Cinnamon: Spice of The Month
With their ability to enhance flavor, aroma, and complexity in dishes, spices have played a vital role in culinary history. Diverse spice blends from around the world reflect the unique flavors and traditions of various cultures. At Harris Spice, we embrace this culinary diversity by offering custom spice blends from around the world.
Garam Masala – India
Garam Masala is the quintessential spice blend in Indian cuisine. The name translates to "hot spice," but it’s not just about spiciness; it also refers to the warming quality of the spices used. Garam Masala typically includes a combination of cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, cumin, and coriander, but there are countless regional variations. This blend is a staple in Indian dishes, adding depth and complexity to curries, rice dishes, and more.
Ras el Hanout – Morocco
Ras el Hanout, which translates to "top of the shop" in Arabic, is a Moroccan spice blend that exemplifies the country's rich culinary heritage. This blend can include up to 30 different spices, featuring a mix of aromatic herbs and a touch of heat. Cinnamon, cloves, cumin, and coriander are often found in Ras el Hanout, and it's a crucial ingredient in dishes like tagines and couscous.
Chinese Five Spice – China
Chinese Five Spice is a versatile spice blend used in Chinese cuisine. Though it typically contains a combination of five spices — star anise, cloves, cinnamon (cassia), Sichuan peppercorns, and fennel seeds — the name refers to the five elements of fire, water, wood, earth and metal. Its original use was by healers to restore balance in the body. The ingredients and amount of each spice, however, vary greatly from region to region and even from household to household. The blend offers a unique balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors, making it ideal for seasoning meats, poultry, and even vegetables in Chinese dishes.
Herbes de Provence – France
Herbes de Provence is a classic French spice blend hailing from the Provence region in southeastern France. This blend features a harmonious combination of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, marjoram, basil, and oregano. It adds a Mediterranean touch to dishes, and it's a perfect match for roasted meats, grilled vegetables, and stews.
Jamaican Jerk Seasoning – Jamaica
Jamaican Jerk Seasoning is a fiery spice blend known for its bold and spicy flavor. It typically includes chili peppers, allspice, thyme, and a mix of other spices and herbs. Jerk seasoning is used to marinate and flavor meat, especially chicken and pork, which is then traditionally cooked over a wood fire for an unforgettable taste experience.
Baharat – Middle East
Baharat is a spice blend commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine. The name, in fact, is Arabic for “spice”. Its exact composition can vary from region to region but typically includes black pepper, paprika, cumin, and coriander. Baharat is a key ingredient in dishes like kebabs, stews, and rice pilafs, infusing them with a rich, warm flavor.
At Harris Spice, we believe that spices are not just ingredients but ways to experience different cultures and culinary traditions. Our selection of spice blends from around the world is designed to transport you to various corners of the globe. Harris Spice is your partner in exploring the tastes of the world, and we invite you to get in touch with our team to create your own unique spice blends!
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