Ultimate Spice Guide: Mediterranean

The only cuisine (that I could think of) that spanned in different cultures, Mediterranean cuisine has been known for serving healthy yet flavorful dishes. These include vegetables, lean meats, fish, and seafood since the region is surrounded by sea. Discover the spices that makes Mediterranean cuisine well-loved through this visual provided by Cooksmarts.com.

Let's get to know the spices up close:

• Oregano - also called wild marjoram in some parts of Europe, this spice belongs in the mint family. Aside from its balsamic and aromatic flavor, it is also used in traditional herbal medicine due to its antibacterial properties.
• Rosemary - known for its earthy yet fragrant smell, this herb usually partners with thyme to season meats such as chicken, lamb, pork, salmon, and tuna dishes.
• Thyme - delicate looking with penetrating aroma, this herb is both used fresh and dried. Perfect for vegetable dishes and partner with other herbs for that great roasted chicken.
• Bay Leaves - used mostly as aromatics, bay leaves gives off this pleasant and sweet aroma especially when dried. Ancient Greeks and Romans put this behind their ear as a sign of knowledge, peace, and protection.
• Cardamom - native to the Middle East, North Africa, and Scandinavia, this pungent spice are available in three types: green cardamom, black cardamom and Madagascar cardamom. This spice goes well with chicken, duck, lentils, and rice.
• Cinnamon - the only spice in the list that is being used on both sweet and savory dish. Obtained from the inner bark, this sweet and fragrant spice is also used in traditional medicine due to its anti-clotting and anti-microbial properties.
• Cloves - dried flower buds of an evergreen tree native to eastern Indonesia. It provides that unique warm, sweet, and aromatic taste of gingerbread and pumpkin pie.
• Coriander - commonly known as Cilantro in America and some parts of Asia, coriander has been the most extensively used herb in the world. Either served as garnish or aromatics, you cannot deny its pungent yet pleasant smell in any dish. Aside from being a spice, it is also used in traditional medicine in treating skin swelling and disorders.
• Basil - this well-loved aromatic is well known as the main ingredient for pesto sauce. It's highly fragrant leaves are used as a seasoning herb for most Mediterranean dishes.
• Ginger - one of the most common spice all over the world aside from garlic and onion. This pungent and spicy aromatic is perfect not only for Asian stir-fry but also with sweet dishes and fruit concoctions. It is also known for its medicinal properties particularly aids in gastrointestinal health.

Up Next: Indian Spice Guide