Off to India Sunday what spices should i get?

bubbs

Hi,
Im off to India Sunday :j should i bring back some spices? I like Curry etc but usually use jar sauce cause not sure how yo make it myself.
Thanks :T

annie123

you wont be able to shop alone, what you need to do is take Moi with you I don't take up much space and love markets in India;)

no? never mind.....
where ever you're going there will be a market selling spices etc...
I brought back loads from one stall as she spoke good english, try several till you get to one you like.

I found a very nice lady who wrote down...(provide your own pen and paper) what each one was and what it goes with. I don't remember what I brought back but in total it was at least a carrier bag full of all sorts of different things.
Then googled indian recipes and we made some fab things to eat. I get mine now from indian shops but its still not the same as their markets.

My whole carrier bag full cost less than £2, its prob a bit more now but prices cant have gone up that much

Have a lovely time...and yes I am jealous:p

janejustjane

Many stalls and shops sell small packets of spices in a long strip of about a dozen, for about £1. You get enough of each spice for at least one recipe. These include Coriander, Nutmeg, Star Anise, Poppy seeds etc, all the usual ones used in Indian cookery. Of course you can get larger quantities of almost any spice in the markets which are everywhere. If you get the opportunity to visit a spice plantation, this is worthwhile, the trip usually includes a meal and they give you some spices and recipes to take away. When you make your own curry, you can make it as hot or as mild as you like!

bubbs

Im going with my DH we have been the last 2 years also so i know what to expect but never bought spices as never known how to use them really lol but as i have now come across this wonderfull site and people i was sure id get some advice.
I have seen those strips so may just get some to try then can always get more next year when we go back we love it there and its 5 weeks of doing nothing really and shopping when we get the urge.
Dont want to make anyone jealous but just finished packing lol

angelavdavis

Definitely Star Anise, vanilla pods and saffron. Also, tamarind paste can be hard to get hold of in UK (esp. down here) but easily available there for a few pence. Have a great time.