1. Nutmeg
2. Nigella seeds
3. Nasturtium leaves
4. Nigella (also known as black cumin)
5. Neem leaves
6. New Mexico chili powder
7. Nonpareil capers
8. Nigella sativa (black seed)
9. Narrow-leafed pepperwort
10. Nigella damascena (love-in-a-mist flower)
11. Niger seeds
12. Nardostachys jatamansi (spikenard)
13. Noni fruit powder
14. Njangsa seeds
15. Nutritional yeast
16. Nardu seeds
17. North African ras el hanout spice blend
18. Nigella arvensis (wild fennel flower)
19. Nepali pepper
20. Nepitella (Calamintha nepeta)
21. NexGen ginger powder
22. Neem powder
23. Noodle seasoning powder
24. Nonpareil poppy seeds
25. Nigella hispanica (Spanish fennel flower)
26. Nutritional yeast flakes
27. Nakajima chili powder
28. Nepal pepper flakes
29. Nispero powder
30. Net meg-great for baking
More About Spices That Start With N
Welcome to the world of spices! Spices have played a crucial role in the culinary world for centuries, adding flavor, depth, and fragrance to dishes from around the globe. From the fiery heat of chili peppers to the delicate aromas of cinnamon, spices have mesmerized our taste buds and transformed ordinary meals into extraordinary experiences.
In this article, we delve into the realm of spices that start with the letter “N.” These lesser-known spices may not be as popular as their more widely-used counterparts, but their unique characteristics and captivating flavors are certainly worth exploring.
The first spice on our journey is nutmeg, a small, brown seed obtained from the evergreen tree belonging to the Myristica genus. Known for its warm, sweet, and slightly nutty flavor, nutmeg is a staple in both sweet and savory dishes. Its distinct aroma and taste make it a fantastic addition to baked goods, such as pies, cookies, and cakes. Additionally, nutmeg adds depth to savory dishes like creamy soups, hearty stews, and creamy sauces. Beyond its culinary applications, nutmeg also possesses potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and digestion-aiding properties.
Moving on, we come across Nigella seeds, also known as black cumin or kalonji. These small, black seeds have a slightly bitter and peppery taste, adding a unique twist to various dishes. Nigella seeds are commonly used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and North African cuisines, where they are sprinkled over flatbreads, added to curries, pickles, and even incorporated into condiments like chutneys. With their distinct flavor profile and numerous health benefits, Nigella seeds are a delightful spice to experiment with in the kitchen.
Next up, we encounter Nigella, or more commonly known as Jambu or Rose Apple. Although not typically used in its whole form, the leaves of this tropical evergreen tree carry a fragrant, slightly sweet, and citrusy flavor. In Southeast Asian cuisines, Nigella leaves are often used to infuse aromatic qualities into curries, soups, and stir-fries. They bring a refreshing touch to dishes and can be an exciting addition for those looking to explore unique flavors from distant lands.
Now, let’s journey into the Middle East, where we find one of the most coveted spices sumac. Sumac is derived from the dried and ground berries of the sumac shrub, which grows abundantly in the region. Known for its bright red color and tangy, lemony taste, sumac is a common ingredient in Middle Eastern dishes such as salads, kebabs, hummus, and spice blends like za’atar. Its tartness adds a delightful zing to dishes and can be used as a replacement for lemon juice or vinegar. Apart from its culinary attributes, sumac also boasts potential health benefits due to its high antioxidant content.
Last but not least, we have Nasturtium, an edible flower with a distinctive, peppery flavor. Native to South America, Nasturtium flowers possess vibrant colors ranging from orange to yellow and are often used as a decorative element in salads, soups, and sandwiches. Apart from their visual appeal, Nasturtium flowers bring a peppery, watercress-like taste to dishes, adding a delightful twist to traditional recipes.
As we conclude this introduction to spices starting with “N,” we hope to have piqued your curiosity about these unique and often overlooked culinary treasures. The world of spices is vast, with each one offering its own distinct flavors, scents, and health benefits. So why not embark on a new gastronomic adventure and explore the enchanting world of “N” spices? Stay tuned for detailed articles on each spice, as we dive into their origins, cooking techniques, and the delightful dishes they serenade.
Spices That Start With N FAQs:
FAQ – Spices starting with “N”
Q1: What is Nutmeg?
A1: Nutmeg is a spice derived from the seed of the Myristica fragrans tree, commonly used as a flavor enhancer in both sweet and savory dishes.
Q2: What is Nigella Seed?
A2: Nigella seed, also known as black cumin or kalonji, is a spice with a slightly bitter, peppery taste. It is often used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine, as well as in bread making.
Q3: What is Nigella Powder?
A3: Nigella powder is made from grinding nigella seeds into a fine powder. It is commonly used as a spice in various dishes, including curries, soups, and pickles.
Q4: What is Nutmeg Powder?
A4: Nutmeg powder is the finely ground form of the nutmeg spice. It is commonly used in baking, soups, and spice blends, adding a warm and slightly sweet flavor.
Q5: What is Nigari Salt?
A5: Nigari salt, also known as magnesium chloride, is a seasoning commonly used in Japanese cuisine to coagulate tofu. It provides a slightly bitter and salty taste.
Q6: What is Njangsa?
A6: Njangsa is a spice derived from the seeds of the Ricinodendron heudelotii tree, commonly used in West African cooking. It has a nutty flavor and is often added to soups, stews, and sauces.
Q7: What is Nardostachys jatamansi?
A7: Nardostachys jatamansi, commonly known as spikenard, is a spice derived from the rhizomes of the Nardostachys jatamansi plant. It has a strong, woody aroma and is used in Ayurvedic medicine and perfumes.
Q8: What is Nigella Garlic Paste?
A8: Nigella garlic paste is a mixture of crushed garlic and nigella seeds blended together. It is used as a condiment in various dishes, providing a combination of garlicky and slightly pungent flavors.
Q9: What is Nardoo?
A9: Nardoo is a type of edible fern found in Australia. The spores of the plant are ground into a flour-like substance, often used as a thickening agent or in baking.
Q10: What is Nigella Sativa?
A10: Nigella sativa, also called black seed or black cumin, is a small flowering plant whose seeds are used as a spice. It has a unique, peppery flavor and is commonly used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and North African cuisines.
