List of 40 Spice Names in English with Images
Here is a list of spice names with pictures and facts, as well as links for more information. Find out more about spice names. Take advantage of the information we have shared with you about spice names.
Spices
There are different types of spices in our kitchen which are used to enhance the taste and aroma of food. The most commonly used Indian spices are turmeric, cumin, red chili, black pepper, coriander, garam masala, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves and saffron.
We use spices based on their taste and aroma, such as pungent, sweet, salty, sour and aromatic. We use spices in different dishes like curry, vegetable, dal, rice and roti. Below is a list of all the spice names with pictures, and some information has also been shared.
Spices List
- Salt
- Cumin seeds
- Coriander powder
- Bay Leaf
- Green Cardamom
- Garlic
- Capers
- Dry coconut
- Turmeric powder
- Tea leaf
- Sago
- Saffron
- Curry leaves
- Black Pepper
- Black Salt
- Cubeb Pepper
- Mace
- Black Cardamom
- Basil Leaves
- Basil seeds
- Carom seeds
- Mustard seeds
- Clove
- Black cumin seeds
- Red chili powder
- Red chili flakes
- Onion Powder
Spice Names with Pictures
Salt
Salt is one of the most important seasonings in the world, often included in the list of essential spice names for its universal role in enhancing flavors. Composed mainly of sodium chloride, it is a natural mineral used not only to season food but also to preserve it. Available in various forms, such as table salt, sea salt, and Himalayan pink salt, it adds depth to recipes while playing a key role in regulating hydration and supporting bodily functions like muscle activity and nerve transmission.
In the culinary world, salt is indispensable for balancing flavors, tenderizing meats, and enriching dishes. As one of the most versatile spice names, it is also used in baking to enhance sweetness and texture. Beyond cooking, salt has applications in skincare, cleaning, and therapeutic baths, showcasing its multifunctional value in everyday life.
Cumin seeds
Cumin seeds are a popular ingredient in many cuisines, known for their warm, earthy flavor and aromatic qualities. As one of the essential spice names in global cooking, cumin seeds are used in dishes ranging from Indian curries to Middle Eastern stews and Mexican salsas. Toasting these tiny, crescent-shaped seeds enhances their flavor, making them a staple for adding depth to savory recipes.
Beyond their culinary uses, cumin seeds are valued for their health benefits. Rich in antioxidants and nutrients, they support digestion and boost immunity. Among the many spice names, cumin stands out for its ability to enhance both flavor and wellness.
Coriander powder
Coriander powder, made from ground coriander seeds, is a versatile spice widely used in cuisines around the world. Its mild, citrusy flavor makes it a favorite for enhancing soups, curries, and marinades. As one of the essential spice names in cooking, coriander powder pairs well with other spices, creating a balanced and aromatic blend in dishes.
In addition to its culinary appeal, coriander powder offers numerous health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants and known to aid digestion and reduce inflammation. Among spice names, coriander powder stands out for its ability to add both flavor and nutritional value to meals.
Bay Leaf
Bay leaves are an aromatic herb used to infuse dishes with a subtle, earthy flavor. As one of the key spice names in cooking, bay leaves are typically added to slow-cooked meals such as soups, stews, and curries. While they are not meant to be eaten whole, they release their flavor during the cooking process, enriching the dish with a fragrant depth.
Besides their culinary uses, bay leaves are believed to offer health benefits, including improving digestion and reducing stress. They are a valuable ingredient in both savory and sweet recipes, making them a staple in kitchens worldwide.
Green Cardamom
Green cardamom is a fragrant spice with a sweet, floral flavor that adds depth to both sweet and savory dishes. As one of the most prized spice names, it is commonly used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Scandinavian cuisines. Whether added to curries, rice, or desserts like chai or pastries, cardamom’s unique taste is unmistakable.
Beyond its culinary uses, green cardamom is also known for its potential health benefits. It is believed to aid digestion, freshen breath, and reduce inflammation. With its versatile flavor and medicinal properties, green cardamom remains an essential spice in many kitchens.
Garlic
Garlic is a pungent and delicious spice that is essential in kitchens all over the world. As one of the most commonly used spice names, it enhances the taste of both savory and sweet dishes. Garlic is typically used fresh, crushed, or minced, and is often sautéed to release its full flavor, making it a key ingredient in many recipes, from stir-fries to soups and sauces.
In addition to its culinary benefits, garlic has long been valued for its medicinal properties. It is believed to have antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory effects, making it a valuable spice for both health and flavor.
Capers
Capers are small, pickled flower buds that add a unique tangy and briny flavor to dishes. As one of the lesser-known spice names, they are often used in Mediterranean and European cuisines, where they enhance salads, pasta, fish dishes, and sauces. The distinct sharpness of capers makes them a perfect complement to rich or fatty foods, cutting through the richness and adding a burst of flavor.
Beyond their culinary appeal, capers are also packed with antioxidants and are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. This makes capers not only a flavorful spice but also a healthful addition to a balanced diet.
Dry coconut
Dry coconut, often referred to as desiccated coconut, is grated or shredded coconut meat that has been dried to preserve its flavor and texture. As one of the popular spice names, it adds a rich, nutty taste to both sweet and savory dishes. It’s commonly used in curries, chutneys, baked goods, and desserts like coconut macaroons, offering a tropical flavor and a chewy texture.
Besides its culinary uses, desiccated coconut is rich in healthy fats and fiber. It’s also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious ingredient that enhances the flavor and nutritional profile of many dishes.
Turmeric powder
Turmeric powder is a bright yellow spice obtained from the root of the turmeric plant. As one of the most well-known spice names, it is widely used in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisines to add both color and flavor to dishes like curries, rice, and soups. The slightly bitter, earthy taste of turmeric enhances the complexity of food while providing a warm, golden hue.
In addition to its culinary uses, turmeric powder is known for its numerous health benefits. It contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it popular in natural medicine and wellness practices.
Tea leaf
Tea leaves are the dried leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which are mainly used to make tea. As one of the essential spice names, tea leaves come in various types, such as green, black, and oolong, each offering unique flavors and brewing methods. They are rich in antioxidants and can be enjoyed hot or cold, offering a comforting and refreshing experience.
Tea leaves are also known for their health benefits, including improving digestion, boosting energy, and enhancing mental clarity. Beyond beverages, they are used in culinary creations, including marinades and desserts, highlighting their versatility in both food and drink.
Sago
Sago is a starch extracted from the pith of the sago palm, commonly used in a variety of dishes around the world. As one of the unique spice names, sago is most often found in puddings, soups, and desserts, especially in Southeast Asia. It has a neutral flavor and a chewy texture, making it a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes.
In addition to its culinary uses, sago is an excellent source of carbohydrates and is gluten-free, making it a popular choice in gluten-free diets. Its adaptability and nutritional value have made it an important staple in many cultures.
Saffron
Saffron is a highly prized spice known for its distinct flavor, vibrant color, and delicate aroma. Derived from the flower of *Crocus sativus*, it requires meticulous harvesting, as each flower produces only three red stigmas, which are hand-picked. This labor-intensive process makes saffron one of the world’s most expensive spices. Often used in cooking, it imparts a rich golden hue to dishes like paella, risotto, and biryani.
In addition to its culinary uses, saffron is also valued for its potential health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mood-enhancing properties. Among various spice names, saffron stands out for its unique qualities and versatility.
Curry leaves
Curry leaves, native to India, are aromatic leaves from the *Murraya koenigii* plant, commonly used in South Asian cuisine. Known for their distinct, slightly citrusy flavor, they are often added to hot oil to release their fragrance and enhance the taste of dishes like curries, dals, and chutneys. These leaves are typically used fresh, though they can also be dried for longer shelf life.
Apart from their culinary value, curry leaves are recognized for their medicinal properties. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, they are believed to aid digestion, improve hair health, and support overall wellness. Among various spice names, curry leaves are prized for their versatility and health benefits.
Black Pepper
Black pepper, often referred to as the “King of Spices”, is one of the most used spices worldwide. It comes from the dried fruit of the *Piper nigrum* plant, native to India. Known for its pungent, mildly spicy flavor, black pepper enhances the taste of countless dishes, from meats to vegetables and soups. It is commonly ground fresh to release its full aroma and flavor.
In addition to its culinary uses, black pepper has numerous health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, promotes digestion, and may improve nutrient absorption. Among spice names, black pepper is one of the most versatile and essential ingredients in global kitchens.
Black Salt
Black salt, also known as *Kala Namak*, is a distinctive rock salt used primarily in South Asian cuisine. It has a dark, purplish-brown color and a unique, savory flavor with a hint of sulfur. Black salt is often sprinkled on salads, fruits, and chaats, adding a tangy, earthy taste. It is also an essential ingredient in many Indian spice blends, contributing depth to dishes like raita and chutneys.
Beyond its culinary applications, black salt is believed to have digestive and therapeutic benefits. Rich in minerals, it is often used in Ayurvedic medicine. Among spice names, black salt is valued for its flavor and potential health advantages.
Cubeb Pepper
Cubeb pepper, also known as Piper cubeb, is a spice from Indonesia, which is very similar to black pepper. Its small, dried berries have a pungent, slightly bitter flavor with hints of allspice and clove. Often used in Middle Eastern and Indonesian cuisines, cubeb pepper adds a distinctive sharpness to dishes like stews, meats, and rice. It is sometimes ground into powder or used whole in cooking.
In addition to its culinary uses, cubeb pepper has a history in traditional medicine. It is believed to aid digestion, alleviate respiratory issues, and act as a mild stimulant. Among spice names, cubeb pepper is unique for its bold flavor and medicinal qualities.
Mace
Mace is a fragrant spice derived from the outer covering of nutmeg seeds. It has a delicate, slightly sweet, and peppery flavor, often used in both sweet and savory dishes. Allspice is commonly found in baking, sauces, and spice mixes, and is especially popular in Middle Eastern and European cuisine. It is typically available in whole, dried form or ground into a fine powder.
Apart from its culinary uses, mace is also known for its potential health benefits, such as aiding digestion and alleviating pain. Among spice names, mace stands out for its aromatic profile and versatility in the kitchen.
Black Cardamom
Black cardamom, also known as *Amomum subulatum*, is a bold and aromatic spice commonly used in Indian, Chinese, and Southeast Asian cuisines. Its smoky, slightly spicy flavor comes from being dried over open flames. Black cardamom is often used in savory dishes, such as curries, stews, and rice pilafs, where it imparts a unique depth and warmth.
In addition to its culinary uses, black cardamom is valued for its medicinal properties. It is believed to aid digestion, relieve respiratory issues, and act as an anti-inflammatory. Among spice names, black cardamom is prized for its robust flavor and health benefits.
Basil Leaves
Basil leaves, commonly known for their sweet and slightly peppery flavor, are a staple in many cuisines, especially Italian and Southeast Asian. The leaves come from the *Ocimum basilicum* plant and are used fresh or dried to enhance dishes like pasta, salads, soups, and pesto. The aromatic herb adds a refreshing, fragrant note to both savory and sweet recipes.
In addition to its culinary uses, basil leaves are known for their health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. Among spice names, basil leaves are appreciated for their versatility, flavor, and potential to support overall health.
Basil seeds
Basil seeds, also known as *sabja* or *tukmaria*, are small black seeds derived from the basil plant (*Ocimum basilicum*). These seeds are commonly used in beverages, desserts, and salads, especially in Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines. When soaked in water, basil seeds expand and develop a gelatinous coating, which adds a unique texture to drinks like lemonades and milkshakes.
In addition to their culinary uses, basil seeds are recognized for their health benefits. They are high in fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients, supporting digestion and hydration. Among spice names, basil seeds stand out for their versatility and nutritional value.
Carom seeds
Carom seeds, also known as *ajwain*, are small, oval-shaped seeds with a strong, pungent flavor similar to thyme and oregano. Commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine, celery is added to breads, curries and pickles to add flavor. They are often fried in oil at the beginning of cooking to release their distinctive aroma.
In addition to their culinary uses, carom seeds are known for their medicinal properties. They aid digestion, relieve indigestion, and are used to treat colds and respiratory issues. Among spice names, carom seeds are valued both for their bold flavor and numerous health benefits.
Mustard seeds
Mustard seeds, derived from the mustard plant (*Brassica*), are small, round seeds that come in yellow, brown, and black varieties. Known for their pungent, spicy flavor, they are widely used in cooking, particularly in Indian, Mediterranean, and European cuisines. When cooked in oil, mustard seeds release a nutty, aromatic flavor, often forming the base of curries, pickles, and spice blends.
Beyond their culinary use, mustard seeds have been valued for their potential health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants, support digestion, and are believed to reduce inflammation. Among spice names, mustard seeds are appreciated for their bold taste and medicinal properties.
Clove
Clove is a highly aromatic spice derived from the dried flower buds of the *Syzygium aromaticum* tree, native to Southeast Asia. Known for its intense, sweet, and slightly bitter flavor, cloves are commonly used in both sweet and savory dishes. They are a key ingredient in spice blends, such as garam masala, and are often used to season meats, stews, rice dishes, and desserts like baked goods and mulled wine.
Apart from their culinary uses, cloves are also valued for their medicinal properties. Rich in antioxidants, they are believed to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. Among spice names, clove is renowned for its strong flavor and therapeutic benefits.
Black cumin seeds
Black cumin seeds, also known as *nigella sativa*, are small, black seeds that have a distinct, slightly bitter flavor with hints of onion, pepper, and oregano. They are commonly used in Middle Eastern, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisines, often sprinkled on bread, added to curries, or used in spice blends. These seeds are typically toasted or ground to release their full flavor.
In addition to their culinary applications, black cumin seeds have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Rich in antioxidants, they are believed to support immune health, improve digestion, and reduce inflammation. Among spice names, black cumin seeds are valued for their bold flavor and medicinal benefits.
Red chili powder
Red chili powder is a vibrant, spicy powder made from dried and ground red chili. It is widely used in many cuisines around the world, especially in Indian, Mexican, and Thai cooking. The heat level can vary depending on the type of chili used, making it versatile for seasoning dishes like curries, stews, soups, and marinades. Red chili powder also adds a rich color to food.
In addition to its culinary uses, red chili powder contains capsaicin, which is known to boost metabolism and aid in digestion. Among spice names, red chili powder is valued for its bold flavor, heat, and potential health benefits.
Red chili flakes
Red pepper flakes are made from dried, crushed red peppers, which often also contain the seeds, which give them a hot, spicy flavor. Commonly used in Italian, Mexican, and Indian cuisines, chili flakes are added to pizzas, pasta, soups, and curries to bring heat and depth of flavor. The level of spice can vary, depending on the chili variety used, but they generally add a tangy, bold taste.
In addition to their culinary use, red chili flakes are also known for their potential health benefits. Rich in capsaicin, they can help boost metabolism and improve digestion. Among spice names, red chili flakes are prized for their versatility and pungency.
Onion Powder
Onion powder is a versatile spice made from dried and powdered onions. It offers the distinct, savory flavor of fresh onions without the texture, making it a convenient addition to many dishes. Commonly used in soups, sauces, meat rubs, and spice blends, onion powder adds a mild sweetness and depth to a variety of recipes. It’s especially popular in dry seasoning mixes for snacks like chips and popcorn.
Beyond its culinary uses, onion powder also carries potential health benefits. It contains antioxidants and compounds that may support heart health and improve immune function. Among spice names, onion powder is valued for its flavor and convenience in cooking.