Chef's Ingredients - More Spices Quiz

Caraway is a spice that has been used for thousands of years in Europe and parts of Asia, with mentions in ancient Egyptian and Roman sources. Its seeds have an earthy, sweet taste with a mild anise flavor. They are most commonly used in rye bread, but also appear in dishes like sauerkraut, cabbage soup, and pork. In baking, they are sometimes added to cakes and pastries.

Vanilla beans come from orchids native to Mexico and Central America. They have a sweet, floral flavor with notes of caramel and spice. Many cooks use real vanilla beans instead of artificial extracts in desserts like custards, ice cream, and cakes because the flavor is stronger and more natural.

They are also added to drinks such as coffee, tea, and cocktails to give a smooth, fragrant taste.

Himalayan salt is mined in Pakistan and formed from ancient seas millions of years ago. It has a light pink color and a mild mineral taste. Although some people claim it is healthier than other salts, there is no reliable evidence for this. It is used like regular salt in cooking, including for meats, vegetables, and soups, and is often added at the end of a dish.

Mustard seeds come from plants native to the Mediterranean and have been used since ancient times. They taste bitter on their own but become sharp and tangy when crushed and mixed with liquid. In Indian cooking, they are often heated in oil before being added to dishes like curries and lentils. They are also used in pickling and meat dishes.

Licorice root has been grown in Europe and Asia for centuries and is known for its sweet, slightly earthy flavor with hints of anise. It is commonly used in candy, teas, and other sweets. It has also been used in traditional medicine, especially for sore throats and digestion. In some cases, it is added to savory dishes like stews or marinades.

Sumac comes from dried berries and is widely used in the Middle East and Mediterranean. It has a sour, lemon-like taste with a mild fruitiness. It is sprinkled over salads, rice, and grilled meats to add acidity. It is also used in spice blends like za'atar and as a garnish for dips and vegetables.

Garlic originated in Central Asia and has been used in cooking for thousands of years. It has a strong, sharp taste when raw and becomes milder and slightly sweet when cooked. It is used in many dishes, including sauces, soups, stir-fries, and marinades, and can be chopped, crushed, or roasted.

Mace comes from the outer covering of nutmeg seeds and is native to Indonesia. It has a slightly sweet flavor that is similar to nutmeg but lighter. It is used in baked goods, soups, and meat dishes, and is also part of spice blends like garam masala and pumpkin spice. It can also be added to drinks such as mulled wine.

Sesame seeds have been grown for thousands of years and likely originated in Africa and India. They have a mild, nutty flavor that becomes stronger when toasted. They are used as a topping for bread and crackers, made into tahini for sauces and dips, and added to dishes like sushi, noodles, and stir-fries.

Wasabi comes from a plant native to Japan and is known for its strong heat. Its flavor is spicy, but this spiciness fades more quickly than other sources of heat. It is commonly served with sushi and sashimi and is also used in sauces, dressings, and snacks like flavored nuts.

Ginger comes from a root that has been grown in India and China since ancient times. It has a warm, spicy flavor and is used in both sweet and savory foods. It is added to drinks like tea, as well as to soups, stir-fries, and curries. It is also used in traditional medicine for digestion and nausea.

Chipotle peppers are made by smoking and drying ripe jalapenos and come from Mexico. They have a smoky, moderately spicy flavor. They are used in salsas, sauces, and marinades, and are often added to dishes like tacos, chili, and grilled meats. They are available dried whole or ground.