Cooking with Warm Spices

Warm spices—like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon—have a lovely warming effect on the whole being. They’re also terrific for healthy digestion.

Instructions

Try these nine ideas to spice up your winter:

  1. Steep sliced ginger and cinnamon sticks in boiling water for a flavorful, effective after dinner sipper.
  2. Mix together a teaspoon each of cumin, coriander and sea salt to keep by the stove or on the table for an easy way to amp up the flavor with less sodium.
  3. Substitute ground cardamom for nutmeg in pies and cookies for a spicy, floral note.
  4. Cook rice or other grains with star anise, cinnamon and cardamom pods to bust them out of the everyday ordinary.
  5. Root vegetables love warm spices. Try roasting carrots with cumin and ginger, or beets with cumin and coriander.
  6. Add a pinch of cinnamon and coriander to a tomato sauce for a Venetian spin.
  7. Make a paste of 2 teaspoons ground cumin with 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of sea salt to rub on chicken or fish before roasting.
  8. Make mulled cider (or wine!) by simmering cider with star anise and cinnamon sticks.
  9. Add 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, cumin or coriander to a vinaigrette for a unique flavor spin.

 

Making that mulled wine couldn’t be easier. Combine a bottle of our Merlot or Cabernet with some orange slices, spices, optional honey and let it simmer for 10 minutes over medium heat. THAT’S IT. Stay warm, safe, and enjoy.