Spice Profile: Black Seed (Kalonji, Nigella Sativa, Charnushka)

Leah Sugar

Scientific Name Nigella Sativa Pronounced char-NOOSH-kah Charnushka means “black seed” in Russian, which translates to chernishke in Yiddish and schwarzkummel in German. Also Known As The rare spice is known by many names. It’s also referred to as nigella seed, black seed, black onion seed, onion seed, black caraway seed, black cumin, roman coriander, calonji, or kalonji. Despite having various names, the flavor of Charnushka is not similar to onion, cumin, coriander, or caraway seeds. What is Black Seed? Charnushka is deep black seeds with a sharp flavor and strong aroma. It has a broad flavor profile that is peppery...

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Spice Profile: Fenugreek

Leah Sugar

Scientific Name Trigonella foenum-graecum Pronounced: Fen-oo-GREEK The scientific name Trigonella refers to triangularly shaped flowers. Foenum-graecum translates into 'Greek Hay' What is Fenugreek? Fenugreek is a leafy green plant that can be used in may ways. Fresh leaves are used in Iranian and Indian cooking, the sprouted seeds are used in salads and seeds are used in spice blends, baking and pickles. The seeds can even be ground to make flour for breads. How Can I Use Fenugreek? Uses: Fresh leaves can be used as a vegetable, cooked with potatoes, spinach or rice, or chopped and added to dough. Dried leaves can be...

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Spice Profile: Star Anise

Leah Sugar

Spice Profile: Star Anise, Illicium Verum  Star Anise is pronounced as star \ˈa-nəs\ , scientific name Illicium Verum. Anise is often mispronounced. Hear the correct pronunciation.   Also Known As Star Anise is also known as star anise seeds, star aniseed, Chinese star anise, anise stars, Chinese anise, Indian anise, chakra phool, and takkola.   What is Star Anise? Star Anise is a spice that is widely used in cooking and home remedies. It is the dried, star-shaped fruit of a small oriental tree. It’s rust-colored, has tough skin, and can measure to over 1” long. Each star has between...

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Spicy Snacks

Leah Sugar

When we think of using a spice rack, we generally think of elaborate meals and more complex cooking. However, a wide variety of herbs and spices can be used to brighten up lots of healthy snacks. Here are some easy ideas for snacks using basic ingredients, some creativity and your AllSpice Rack! Roasted Chickpeas Drain and rinse a 15 ounce can of chickpeas. Transfer to a bowl and add spices of your choice. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable or coconut oil. Fry in a pan or bake on a baking sheet until golden brown. Suggested Spices: Paprika, Turmeric, Cumin, Cayenne, Salt,...

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Herbs and Spices in Cocktails

Leah Sugar

It's no secret that liquor and spices have a long and tangled history. Many of the great staples in your liquor cabinet rely on herbs and spices to create their signature flavor. Gin, for example, derives its primary flavors from juniper berries and is often augmented with many other recognizable spice rack favorites. Recently, however, mixologists have been looking to the spice rack for unique twists on mixed drinks. Using spices and herbs can liven up a drink and even add medicinal benefits.  Below are some unique drink recipes using herbs and spices: Pear and Cardamom Sidecar Autumn Delight (Cinnamon) The Brow Burner...

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Spice Profile: Fennel

Leah Sugar

Scientific Name Foeniculum Vulgare What is Fennel? A relative of the bulbous fennel used as a vegetable, fennel herb is a tall, hardy perennial that is used mostly for its seeds. Fennel, like parsley, is a member of the carrot family. What is the History of Fennel? Fennel is native to the Mediterranean and is one of the oldest cultivated plants. Romans ate fennel as a vegetable and it has been used medicinally all over Asia.  How is Fennel Grown? Fennel plants grow easily in many conditions. It is a perennial and will self seed. It can also cross pollinate with dill,...

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