Herbs, Spices & Masalas

Rich World of Herbs, Spices & Masalas at Bombay Basket

Experience the authentic flavors of India with our diverse selection of herbs, spices, and masalas available at Bombay Basket, the leading online Indian Grocery Store in the UK.

Enhance the taste of your dishes with the pure TATA Salt, a kitchen essential that guarantees the right balance of flavors in every bite. Infuse your meals with the bold and rich flavors of Kashmiri chilli powder, a staple in Indian cuisine that adds both color and heat to your dishes.

Add depth and complexity to your recipes with Heera's high-quality brown mustard seeds, a versatile ingredient that elevates a range of dishes. Embark on a flavorful journey with Badshah's garam masalas, perfect for imparting the essence of Indian spices to your curries and gravies.

Discover the rich aroma and distinct taste of Heera's whole cumin, an essential spice that adds earthiness to your dishes. Also, indulge in the exquisite aroma of green cardamom, a cherished spice that brings warmth and a touch of luxury to both sweet and savory recipes.

Experience the tangy and slightly sweet flavor of amchoor powder, a delightful addition to chutneys, marinades, and pickles. Explore the delicate and nutty flavor of white poppy seeds, often used to thicken sauces and add a unique texture to dishes.

Bombay Basket is your destination for sourcing the finest herbs, spices, and masalas that capture the essence of Indian cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Spices and Seasonings

1. How do I use Mustard Seeds in cooking?

Mustard seeds are commonly used as a base for tempering (tadka) in various Indian dishes. When heated in oil, they release a unique flavor and aroma that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Mustard seeds are also used to make mustard paste, marinades, pickles, and even as a spice in many cuisines.

2. What is the significance of Amchoor (Mango) Powder in cooking?

Amchoor powder, made from dried green mangoes, offers a tangy and slightly fruity flavor to dishes. It's commonly used in Indian cuisine to provide a sour note to curries, chutneys, snacks, and beverages. It's a great alternative to using fresh lime or tamarind juice and adds a delightful zing to your recipes.

3. How is Garam Masala used in Indian cooking?

Garam masala is a popular spice blend that adds warmth and depth to dishes. It's typically added towards the end of cooking or as a final sprinkle to retain its aromatic flavors. Garam masala can be used in curries, stews, lentil dishes, rice, and even tea for a spiced twist.

4. What is Kashmiri Chilli Powder known for?

Kashmiri chilli powder is prized for its vibrant red color and mild heat. It's often used to add color to dishes along with a subtle kick. This spice is an essential component of dishes like rogan josh, tandoori items, and many Indian gravies.

5. How can I use Fenugreek (Methi) in cooking?

Fenugreek seeds (methi) and fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) are both used in Indian cooking. Fenugreek seeds are often toasted and used in tempering, while dried fenugreek leaves lend a unique aroma to dishes like curries, parathas, and even teas.

6. What is the role of Hingraj Powder (Asafoetida) in cooking?

Hingraj powder, also known as asafoetida, is a pungent spice that enhances the umami flavor of dishes. It's used in small quantities during tempering and sautéing to add depth to lentil dishes, vegetable curries, and pickles. Hing is especially popular in vegetarian and Jain cooking.

7. What are Bay Leaves used for in cooking?

Bay leaves are aromatic leaves that lend a subtle and earthy flavor to dishes. They are commonly used in soups, stews, sauces, and rice dishes to infuse a delightful aroma. Remember to remove the bay leaves before serving, as they are typically not meant to be eaten.

8. How is Turmeric Powder (Haldi) typically used?

Turmeric powder is a versatile spice known for its vibrant yellow color and health benefits. It's a staple in Indian cuisine and is used to add color, flavor, and its anti-inflammatory properties to a wide range of dishes, including curries, lentils, rice, and even beverages.

9. What is the best way to store these spices to maintain freshness?

To maintain the freshness and flavor of these spices, it's best to store them in airtight containers away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keeping them in a cool and dark place will help prolong their shelf life and preserve their aromatic qualities.

10. Are there any specific recipes using these spices?

Yes, each spice can be used in a multitude of recipes to enhance flavors. For specific recipes and usage, you can refer to cooking books, online resources, or the packaging itself for suggested dishes and cooking techniques.