Spices are condiments.
From the Latin specĭes , a spice is a condiment and flavoring of plant origin that is used to season or preserve foods . Spices are the seeds or bark of aromatic plants, although the term is also often used to name the leaves of certain herbs.
For example: "This meat tastes very good: what spice have you put in it?" , “I'm going to buy some spices for dinner tonight,” “Saffron is my favorite spice.”
The Spice Route
Most spices are native to tropical areas of Asia . Throughout history, spices have not changed much, but the same ones continue to be consumed as they were several centuries ago.
In this sense, it is interesting to know that in the past there was what was called the Spice Route . Specifically, we can say that it was a commercial route that had its origin in the 11th century , when the Crusaders who were carrying out their duties in Jerusalem , upon returning to Europe , realized that they needed the spices that they had enjoyed in the East to season the dishes. foods and to continue enjoying their flavors.
For this reason, little by little, an itinerary was consolidated that merchants took by land to the Asian continent where they carried out the purchase of all types of spices such as nutmeg , cloves , pepper , cinnamon ... However, the danger of that route, due to the significant number of bandits who were making an appearance and the lack of existing vegetation that made it difficult to feed the cattle that were in charge of transporting the goods, led to that route also becoming maritime.
Ginger was another product of this type that became a highly valuable commodity on this spice route, which had, for example, Vasco de Gama as an important figure. And it was he who found an alternative route to reach Asia when trade with Constantinople was closed when it fell into the hands of the Ottoman Empire .
Cinnamon is a highly valued species.
Wide variety
Thanks to spices, some nutritious foods that are not tasty manage to improve their flavor , without altering their properties. The secret is to use the appropriate amount of spices, since excess produces the opposite effect and provides an unpleasant flavor.
Saffron , rosemary , cumin , thyme , cinnamon , dill , paprika , pepper , nutmeg , cloves , mustard and ginger are some of the most popular spices. If we add to the group of aromatic plants, we can mention basil , cilantro , tarragon , bay leaf , mint , oregano , sage , rosemary and thyme .
Spices in traditional medicine
It should be noted that, in addition to their use in cooking , spices are used in traditional and naturopathic medicine , the same thing that the healers of yesteryear did.
It is also important to know that in the past the word spice was used with another meaning. Specifically, this word was used to refer to the set of desserts that were served with the clear objective that they would perfectly accompany the tasting of various wines.