The best types of spices in Saudi Arabia
Spices are an essential part of Saudi and Arab cuisine in general. They add flavor and depth to foods, turning simple dishes into delicious dishes full of flavours. Many families in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia carefully prepare and choose spices, and choosing good spices is an important task to improve the flavor of food and make it more delicious.
In this article, we will review the best types of spices used in Saudi cuisine, and learn with Atara Store about their characteristics and common uses in local dishes.
- Saffron: Saffron is one of the most expensive spices in the world in terms of price, but it has a high value in Saudi cuisine and is widely used in luxurious dishes and popular desserts. Saffron is known for its rich and sharp flavour, and gives food a distinctive color and flavour. Saffron is often added to fragrant rice, soups, seafood, and traditional desserts.
- Cumin : Cumin is a popular spice that is widely used in Saudi and Arab cuisine in general. Cumin has a bitter, sharp flavor and strong aroma that adds a unique taste to food. Cumin is used in grilled dishes, stuffings, spicy dishes, salads, soups, and pickles.
- Cardamom: Cardamom is considered one of the important spices in Saudi and Arab cuisine, and it has an attractive aroma and distinctive flavour. Cardamom is added to Arabic coffee and tea, and used in desserts, pastries and main dishes. Cardamom is considered an integral part of the processing of common spices in the Kingdom.
- Cinnamon: Cinnamon is one of the famous and beloved spices in Saudi cuisine. Cinnamon adds a sweet and warm flavor to dishes, and is widely used in desserts such as basbousa, pastries, and savory dishes. It can also be used to prepare hot drinks such as tea, coffee and milk.
- Black Pepper: Black pepper is an essential spice in all kitchens around the world. Black pepper is characterized by its hot and sharp flavor, which gives food a distinctive taste and makes it lively. Black pepper is used in most main dishes, whether grilled, braised or fried.
- Dry coriander: Dry coriander or dry parsley is a spice commonly used in Saudi and Arab cuisine. Dry coriander has a citrus and refreshing flavour, and is used in salads, oriental dishes, shawarma and seafood.
- Ginger: Ginger is a natural spice with many health benefits, and is characterized by its spicy and refreshing flavour. Ginger is added to many Saudi dishes to enhance flavor and add warmth, and it is also used in preparing hot drinks and refreshments.
- Hot pepper: Hot peppers, such as red hot peppers and green hot peppers, are considered popular spices in Saudi cuisine. Chili peppers add a sharp, spicy flavor to dishes and are added to many delicious recipes, soups and seafood.
- Dry yogurt: Dry yogurt, or what is known as Saudi mixture, is one of the famous spices in the Kingdom, and consists of a group of finely ground spices. Dry yogurt is used to season meat, chicken, and main dishes, and gives the food a rich and distinctive flavour.
- Frankincense: Frankincense is a natural resin used in Saudi cuisine as a spice and flavoring agent. Frankincense is added to meat dishes, soups and popular dishes, and gives food exceptional flavor and depth.
Saudi spices add a distinctive and delicious flavor to food, and represent an essential part of the Kingdom's rich and diverse heritage. It is recommended to use fresh, quality spices for best results, and people can experiment with a variety of spices to discover their favorite flavors and use them in preparing favorite dishes. Using spices correctly will ensure delicious and delicious meals that reflect the Kingdom's rich heritage and culture.