Spice freak Sunday :)

By Rose Swartz July 11, 2023 14 mins read 131 Views

We understand that food has the power to connect us all, transcending cultures and distances. At Belovedsaffron.com, we are passionate about spices, herbs, organic eating and good cooking. We bring you flavours from around the world in our delicious recipes, blog posts and articles. Every meal prepared is an opportunity to explore a different culture and express yourself through your own creations.

Our mission is to promote sustainable food sources and provide access to the highest quality ingredients with integrity. We aim to encourage healthy eating while bringing joy with beautiful plates full of flavourful dishes.

Whether it's from a family recipe or from a 5-star restaurant, we believe everyone should have the chance to experience delightful cuisine. If you would like to contribute your talents or stories on our blog please contact us at [email protected] - we'd love to hear from you!

With love from Belovedsaffron.com - Enjoy the journey!

For now, love yourself and enjoy this one ...

Frequently Asked Questions

Almond Flour and Almond Meal: What is the Difference?

An almond meal, which can be used as an almond flour substitute, is more versatile than other almond flours because it can be used for baking and cooking, as well as making nut free dishes.

Almond flour may also contain gluten, making it difficult to digest. Gluten-free foods should be avoided if you have celiac Disease or any other digestive condition.

Almond flour isn't considered "superfood", but it is high in healthy fats, fibres, protein, vitamin E, and sodium.

The almond meal provides nutritional benefits such as magnesium, iron, zinc and manganese. It also contains vitamin A, B1 (thiamin), C, and folate.

Because it's made from almonds, almond flour contains monounsaturated fatty acids, while almond oil contains polyunsaturated fatty acids. Both types lower LDL (bad cholesterol) and increase HDL(good cholesterol).

Almond flour is also rich in antioxidants such as flavonoids and phenolics. These compounds prevent free radical-induced oxidative stress.

In a study published in Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry, almond flour was found to have an antioxidant activity comparable to blueberries, cranberries or pomegranates and red wine grapes juice.

Almond flour is typically sold along with almond milk, which is fortified to add additional nutrients.

What spices are commonly used in Thai cuisine?

Thai cuisine is famous for its complex flavor profiles. These flavours come from unique and flavorful spices that create various delicious dishes.

Thai cuisine uses common ingredients such as galangal (lemongrass), kaffir lime leaves and chillies.

Each one of these spices adds to Thai cuisine’s unique flavour profile. In Thai cuisine, lemongrass is commonly used in soups and stews. Galangal provides a subtle peppery flavour to dishes. Kaffir lime leaves add a zesty, citrusy fragrance to dishes. Chillies give dishes a spicy kick. Shrimp paste enhances the umami flavor of dishes. Coriander gives off a light, yet fragrant aroma. Cumin adds to dishes a rich, smokey aroma. Turmeric gives dishes a vibrant, yellow hue.

These spices are combined to create complex flavour profiles specific to Thai cuisine. By using a combination of spices, chefs can create dishes that are both flavorful and aromatic. You can bring Thai flavors to your kitchen by stocking up on these spices.

How to Store Spices

They should be kept out of direct sunlight and heat in an airtight container.

To store spices for longer periods of time, place them in a dark cupboard. This will help keep them fresh and prevent any deterioration due to oxidation.

Your spices should be kept in cool and dry areas, away from direct sunlight. A heater or window can cause the spice to lose its aroma and flavour.

Spices work best in an airtight jar or tin. If storing in plastic containers, make sure there is no moisture inside the container.

It is vital to always check the seal after opening, resealing and before storing.

Do not throw away any spices that you have left over. Make sure to use leftover spices in other recipes. To extend their shelf life, you can freeze them.

What are some of the best Thai spices you can find?

The best Thai spices include lemongrass, galangal, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger. Other good spices include clove, cardamom and black peppercorn as well as cloves, star anise and cloves.

Rose petals and bay leaves, pandan leafs, curry leaves, pandan leave, kaffir lemon leaves, vanilla beans. Tamarind pods, lemongrass, basil, mint are other useful spices.

What are the common condiments, spices and seasonings they use in their Thai dishes?

Thai cuisine is an amalgamation of influences from across Asia. Its roots lie in India and China, along with Southeast Asia.

Freshness is the main ingredient in Thai cuisine. It is easier to get the best flavour from ingredients if they are picked earlier and cooked quickly. This is why meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, herbs, nuts, seeds, and grains are often eaten raw and served hot.

Sauces and spices add depth and flavor to dishes. Fresh basil, cilantro, mint, coriander (cilantro), lemongrass, ginger, turmeric, garlic, chillies, chilli paste, soy sauce, tamarind juice, oyster sauce, palm sugar, coconut milk, lime leaves, galangal root, curry powder, shrimp paste, fish sauce, tamarind water, rice vinegar, etc. are used frequently.

How do I make Thai food at home using Thai spices?

You will need to know five key spices in order to make authentic Thai food at your home: cayenne pepper, coriander seeds and turmeric. Each ingredient has a unique flavor profile and plays an essential role in creating delicious dishes.

Black pepper enhances the savoury flavors of curry powder, while cinnamon gives it sweetness. Coriander seeds add a spicy kick, while turmeric gives curry powder its signature yellow colour. Cayenne peppers bring the heat while cilantro adds freshness. Finally, cinnamon adds depth and complexity to any dish.

Each of these spices is available in your local grocery. If you'd rather buy them online, the following are our recommendations.

Statistics

India contributes to 75% of global spice production. (en.wikipedia.org)
According to a recent survey, professional chefs and many home cooks use spices; usage has only continued to grow from 2011 to now. (hospitalityinsights.ehl.edu)
According to the McCormick Science Institute, indigenous Indian spices were cultivated as early as the 8th century BC in the gardens of Babylon. (spicecravings.com)

External Links

How To

Are You able to make curry paste?

Curry paste uses dried chillies, shallots, galangal root, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaf, garlic, shrimp paste, sugar, salt, and sometimes coconut milk. It is used extensively in Thai cuisine.

One of the most widely used condiments in Southeast Asia is curry paste. It gives many dishes a unique taste, including curries, soups stir-fries, stir-fries and salads.

It's very simple to make this at home. Follow our step by step guide below.

Step1 - Prepare Ingredients

Before you start this recipe, make sure that all ingredients are prepared.
Start by peeling and chopping shallots (about 2 cups). Cut galangal root in small pieces, about 3 inches long. Set aside.
Next, remove and cut the cloves of garlic (about four cloves). Next, peel and mince the lemongrass stems (about 1/2-inch thick).
Then, crush dried red chilli peppers (about four tablespoons) and remove the seeds (optional).
Cut the kaffirlime leaves into small strips, approximately 5 inches in length. The white part of your stem should be removed and put aside.
Then drain the shrimp paste (6 ounces) and then coarsely mash it.
Final, weigh out salt and sugar.

Step2 - Grind Ingredients

Combine all ingredients and blend until smooth.
The texture should look similar to peanut-butter.
If you would like to reduce the amount oil in your dish, you could substitute water for some of it.

Step3 - Add Coconut Milk

Add coconut milk to the mixture, and mix well.
Add coconut milk slowly so that the paste does not become too sticky.
If you like it milder, reduce the number of chillies used and add more galangal root.
You can make it more spicy by adding more chilies and less galangal root. The final product should be tasty to you.

Step4 – Serve