The WORLD's SPICE BOWL- India

When it comes to spices, it's difficult not to think of India first. But where exactly does the secret of all the rich Indian cuisines lie? And, from where does it get its aroma, color, and taste?

The answer would be SPICES! SPICES! SPICES!

INDIA is a country known for its never-ending flavors that the world appreciates. The spices behind these flavors bring life to the ‘desi’ taste that excites our palates. But.

Ye swaad aata kahan se hai??? Well, you will get the answer shortly!

Let's dive in and discover the essence of how, when, and what reasons made us the "World’s spice bowl."

Indians are foody! (no doubt about that), and are in love with their spicy foods & peculiar cuisines. Spices are so deeply woven into the Indian fabric that even Indian films are sometimes referred to as masala movies.  The spicy blend is not only in our cuisines but is intertwined with our culture However, we rarely get curious about what makes these spices special to stand out in the whole world.

First and foremost, what are spices?????

Spices are aromatic substances originating from plants, which are used to add or enhance flavors by adding aroma and aftertaste to simple dishes. 

But, the story does not end here! 

Back in the years, India once used to rule the world when it come to spices. Along with many Asian countries, Indian spices were in peculiar demand in the spice market worldwide.

In 1000 BCE, there was a thriving spice trade between India and other parts of the world. India’s unique topographical endowments have turned it into a place with ideal conditions for the growth of spices. The favorable conditions that India holds, humidity, high rainfall, and hot & dry weather, were only the reasons why such a ranged and wide variety of species, like turmeric, cinnamon, coriander, and red chili, etc., started representing the taste of India which never really changed. Indian spices abound in the highlands, tropical rainforests, marshes, marshy woods, fertile valleys, and lush green fields. The history is rooted in Mother Nature's richness and kindness. All dates back thousands of years, making it the "Spice Bowl of the World". 

These spices steadily made their way throughout the continent as travelers traveled through the area. Invaders and rulers have long sought India's golden mine of spices. Ancient Indian texts have also discussed the mention of spices,  as it was being used for various healing and antiseptic purposes. Regional spices have been used in India for millennia in cuisine and traditions like Ayurvedic healing. This age-old technique, the world's oldest type of medicine, is being practiced today in many parts of the Indian subcontinent. 

The real amalgamation of spices was done at the beginning of the 14th century by the Mughals, as they made delicious foods with the perfect blend of different spices. Because of this increased interest in Indian spices, India eventually became the global hub for what became known as the "Spice Trade." 

The globe couldn't get enough of India's tastes, from cumin to coriander, saffron to sage, black pepper to black mustard seeds. 

Out of 109 spices listed by ISO (International Standards Organization), India produces around 75 spices in its various climatic regions. India is one of the largest producers, consumers, and exporters of spices in the world. (via RailRecipe Blog)

India holds the taste of the world within or above its ground. Its history, legacy, and a vital link in the world’s spice production, are required to be appreciated.

Without discussing further, and letting you diverted, let’s end the reading with certain interesting facts, which are worth mentioning-

• India accounts for 70% of global Spice production
• Back in the 4th century greeks referred to the black pepper as black gold because of its immense value(more than gold).
• Salt, the most essential spice, has been produced in India for over 5000 years. It was so much that many Roman soldiers were paid in salt as their salaries during the spice route. This is where the term salary got invented.
• Many international cuisines have their roots in the Indian cooking style possessing multiple Indian spices
• The most expensive spice in the world, saffron, is also being produced in and exported from Kashmir, India.

The depth, aroma, color, and texture define the purity of Indian spices, making them a popular ingredient for multiple national or International cuisines. Indian spices are adored all over the world, let us adore them as Indians today. 

Now go ahead, use these unique facts to flaunt your knowledge and strike up a conversation!!!!!!

Enlighten your family and friends while you cook them a hearty meal.