Usage Suggestions-These aromatic pods add a distinctive flavour, and warmth to dishes. Crush or grind cardamom pods to release their fragrant seeds and enhance your curry blends or even your afternoon tea along with some ginger.

Health Benefits-They are known for aiding digestion, freshening breath, and potentially having antimicrobial properties to assist with digestive discomfort and general well-being.

Fun fact-Cardamom is often referred to as the “Queen of Spices” and was considered a luxurious and highly sought after spice.

Usage Suggestions–Indulge your senses in the luxurious hug of top quality Ceylon Cinnamon. The sweetly aromatic quills add a dash of warmth and sugar in the world of confectionary arts, as well as savory dishes.

Health Benefits– It is high in antioxidants and anti-inflammation compounds, which assist in regulating blood sugar, promote cardiovascular health and boost brain performance.

Fun fact–In the past, it was valued so much that it was presented to deities and rulers to show admiration and honor. It was rare, with an exclusive perfume that made it a prized possession.

Usage Suggestions-Fennel seeds have mild licoricey flavour, which give dishes an unusual depth with a note of sweetness. Add them into your curry recipes for a hint of uniqueness and sweetness.

Health Benefits– Fennel seeds not only have an aesthetic appeal in cuisines but also promote good health. These tiny seeds are well-known for their richness in antioxidants, fibre, and vital vitamins and minerals aimed at improved digestion, relieved bloating and better general gut health.

Fun fact-It was believed that fennel seeds served as a breath freshener long time ago. They were loved for making people’s breath feel good especially after eating and helped in quick digestion and pleasant smell.

Usage Suggestions-Infuse your culinary creations with the aromatic allure of fenugreek seeds. These seeds unveil their magic, lending a subtle bitterness and a warm, maple-like aroma. Add a pinch of fenugreek seeds to your curry blends to complement other robust spices.

Health Benefits– These seeds contain antioxidants, are rich in vitamins and minerals that aid in digestion, stabilize blood glucose levels and support heart health.

Fun fact-In ancient Egypt, fenugreek seeds were found in burial tombs, believed to offer strength in the afterlife.

Usage Suggestions-Use this ingredient to add robust umami taste to dishes. Crush or grind the dried fish chips and incorporate them into your coconut sambol or vegetable curries to enhance the depth of flavour.

Fun fact-The preparation of dried Maldives fish chips involves a traditional sun-drying method. Fish fillets are salted and left to dry under the tropical sun, preserving them naturally and intensifying their flavors.

Usage Suggestions-Mustard seeds have little or no smell, upon crushing or tempering it will release a distinctive, tangy punch, adding depth and character to your dishes. Add heat to an oil or ghee, put in mustard seeds and let them pop up. This releases their nutty flavour. Towards the last stage of cooking, tempered mustard seeds are stirred into dhals, curry or vegetables enhancing their aroma.

Health Benefits-Mustard seeds provide several health advantages. They are high in antioxidants, and essential oils and are said to help digestion, enhance heart health, and have anti-inflammatory qualities.

Fun fact-Mustard seeds were employed in a variety of medical uses during the Middle Ages. They were considered to alleviate a variety of diseases, ranging from muscular pains to toothaches, and were even thought to have aphrodisiac characteristics.