Indian food is known for its fresh, vibrant flavors. This easy-to-make cuisine is popular with people of all ages and preferences. The dishes range from spicy to sweet and simple to complex, and the ingredients are often available at most grocery stores.
There are many facets to indian cooking, but the basics can be easily learned and mastered, so you can start experimenting with new recipes quickly. The following guide can help you master the fundamentals and create your own signature recipes:
Basics
Stocking your pantry with a few basic items can make all the difference in Indian cooking. Whether you’re using South Indian or North Indian recipes, these ingredients are essential for making the dishes taste great.
1. A good quality oil is vital to Indian cooking, especially for sauteing and frying. It is not only flavourful but it also has excellent health benefits.
2. A good blender is indispensable to whip up a variety of pastes, sauces and purees for Indian dishes.
3. A blender can also be used to grind spices and herbs into a powder, which is essential for many recipes in Indian cooking.
4. A good mixer can also be used to churn out butter, which is an essential ingredient in some dishes, such as saag paneer, which uses spinach and cubes of Indian cheese.
5. A small selection of aromatics, such as bay leaves and cardamom seeds are important in a lot of Indian cooking.
These can be sourced at your local Indian grocery store or online. They can also be purchased at a specialty food store such as Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s.
6. Spices
The variety of spices that are used in Indian cooking can be overwhelming at first, but it is important to understand the basic uses of each one and how it can add depth to your dishes. By knowing which spices are commonly used in different types of Indian cooking and how to use them, you will be able to develop your own unique recipes.
7. Dried fenugreek leaves
If you’re going to be making a lot of Indian dishes, dried fenugreek leaves are a must have in your kitchen. These earthy leaves add an authentic flavor to a number of Indian dishes.
8. Garlic and ginger
The combination of garlic and ginger is a key element in many Indian dishes, especially curries and stir-fries. Having a variety of fresh and dried garlic and ginger in your pantry can help you create the base for many recipes.
9. Seasonings
The simplest way to enhance your Indian dishes is by seasoning them. A little salt can go a long way in making your dishes taste delicious and flavorful.
In Indian cooking, seasonings are the glue that hold the entire dish together and keep all the flavors coming together.
The best way to learn about the spices used in Indian cooking is to experiment with different recipes and get comfortable with how they are prepared. By learning how to properly season your dishes and the different steps that are required in the cooking process, you will be able to master the basics and cook a wide variety of Indian recipes that will please all of your family members.