Spices and Seasoning

Spices and Seasoning

Spices have contributed to improve flavors as well as preserve food throughout the centuries. Due to their flavoring properties, it is possible to highlight some foods, making them more tasty. In the Spanish traditional cuisine, we use several types of spices and condiments that characterize our dishes. We can not go without the saffron for the rice and the paprika for lots of stews.

Discover the Essence of Spanish Flavors

Spices have contributed to improve flavors as well as preserve food throughout the centuries. Due to their flavoring properties, it is possible to highlight some foods, making them more tasty. In the Spanish traditional cuisine, we use several types of spices and condiments that characterize our dishes. We cannot go without the saffron for the rice and the paprika for lots of stews.

The Heart of Spanish Dishes: Saffron and Paprika

Two spices stand out in the panorama of Spanish gastronomy, each with a unique role in the country's culinary traditions:

• Saffron: Known as ¨red gold,¨ saffron is essential in dishes like Paella Valenciana, providing a distinct aroma, flavor, and the characteristic golden color.
• Paprika: Also called ¨pimentón,¨ this spice comes in three varieties - sweet, bittersweet, and spicy. It is a fundamental ingredient in recipes such as Chorizo, Patatas Bravas, and Galician Octopus.

A World of Flavors: Other Spanish Spices and Herbs

Beyond saffron and paprika, Spanish cuisine is rich in a variety of spices and herbs that add depth and complexity to every dish:

• Cumin: Often used in Andalusian cooking, cumin adds a warm and earthy note to soups and stews.
• Bay Leaves: These aromatic leaves are a common addition to slow-cooked dishes, imparting a subtle but distinct flavor.
• Oregano: Widely used in Mediterranean cuisine, oregano brings a pungent, slightly bitter taste that is perfect for grilled meats and tomato-based sauces.
• Thyme: Thyme's versatility makes it a favorite in many Spanish kitchens, where it's used to season everything from meats to vegetable dishes.
• Rosemary: With its piney aroma, rosemary is often used to flavor grilled dishes, especially lamb.
• Garlic: A staple of Spanish cuisine, garlic is used generously to add zest and pungency to a wide range of dishes.

Enhancing Your Culinary Creations

Whether you're an experienced chef or a home cook, our selection of Spanish spices and seasonings will elevate your culinary creations. To ensure the authenticity of your Spanish dishes, consider incorporating these essential spices:

• Azafrán (Saffron): Use it sparingly to infuse dishes with its unique flavor and color.
• Pimentón (Paprika): Choose the variety that best suits your dish, from sweet to spicy, to add complexity and depth.
• Comino (Cumin): Perfect for enhancing the flavors of legumes and meats.
• Laurel (Bay Leaves): A couple of leaves during cooking can make all the difference in stews and broths.
• Orégano (Oregano): Sprinkle over dishes before serving for an added layer of flavor.
• Tomillo (Thyme): Excellent for seasoning a variety of proteins and vegetables.
• Romero (Rosemary): Ideal for marinating meats or adding to roasted vegetables.
• Ajo (Garlic): Use in its many forms—fresh, powdered, or as garlic salt—to suit your recipe needs.

With our carefully curated selection of Spanish spices and seasonings, you can bring the warmth and passion of Spanish cooking right into your kitchen. Explore our range and start your journey to mastering the art of Spanish cuisine today.