Herbs and spices have played a significant role in Eastern cuisine for centuries, enhancing the flavors and aromas of dishes. Today, they are appreciated not only for their culinary applications but also for their medicinal properties. These versatile ingredients continue to be in demand for their valuable health benefits.
Sri Lanka, known as Spice Island, is a treasure trove of aromatic herbs and spices due to its favorable climatic conditions that foster the cultivation of a wide range of spices. The island’s fertile soils and tropical climate create an ideal environment for spices to thrive. This abundance of culinary treasures caught the interest of various Western nations across history, allured by the exotic flavors Sri Lanka had to offer. These nations sought to source from Sri Lanka’s renowned spice market, recognizing the island’s reputation as a hub for high-quality spices. The Spice Island’s rich heritage and its allure as a spice destination have shaped Sri Lanka’s cultural and economic identity throughout the ages.
01. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is an ancient spice derived from the bark of evergreen trees belonging to the Cinnamomum genus in the laurel family. Ceylon Cinnamon, also known as “true cinnamon,” is highly regarded worldwide for its distinct qualities, including its unique flavor, color, and aroma, which set it apart from Cassia cinnamon. For centuries, it has played a significant role in Sri Lankan culture, initially as a food preservative and later for its natural flavoring properties.
Cinnamon was highly valued not only for its taste but also for its sweet, sharp, and alluring fragrance. Throughout history, it held significant cultural and religious importance. The ancient Egyptians combined cinnamon with myrrh for embalming rituals, while the Romans burned it during funeral ceremonies. The ancient Hebrews incorporated cinnamon into their religious practices, and it is mentioned in the Bible as an ingredient in the creation of sacred anointing oil.
During the Middle Ages in Europe, cinnamon became a prestigious ingredient in cuisine, reserved for the elite. Arab traders brought cinnamon from Ceylon (Sri Lanka) to the West. In the 15th century, the Portuguese gained control of the cinnamon trade in Ceylon, leading to centuries of conflict with the Ceylonese, Dutch, and British colonizers who sought dominance in the spice trade. Eventually, the cultivation of cinnamon expanded globally, making it more widely available. This historical struggle for control over cinnamon highlights its immense value and the impact it had on trade and colonization during that time.
02. Pepper
Pepper, known as the king of spices, holds a prominent position in Sri Lanka’s spice industry and is widely recognized as the largest spice presence in the global market. Derived from the vines of Piper Nigrum, it boasts a distinctive sharp aroma and a mildly spicy flavor that can serve as a substitute for chili. Apart from its culinary applications, pepper is also valued for its medicinal properties and is frequently used in natural treatment methods like massages. With its rich flavor and therapeutic qualities, pepper continues to be a highly sought-after spice worldwide.
03. Curry Leaves
Curry leaves, known as ‘Karapincha’ in Sri Lanka, come from a commonly grown plant found in many Sri Lankan home gardens. When these leaves are freshly plucked and tempered, they release a strong and delightful fragrance, making them a popular choice as a seasoning in Sri Lankan cuisine. Their distinct flavor and aroma add depth and authenticity to various dishes, making them an essential ingredient in local cooking.
Curry leaves are a staple in Sri Lankan and Eastern cuisines, particularly in curry-based dishes. Freshly plucked curry leaves are highly valued for their strong flavor and aroma. In addition to enhancing the taste of dishes, these leaves are believed to possess medicinal properties beneficial for liver diseases and cholesterol management. Their inclusion not only elevates the flavors of the cuisine but also adds a touch of health-promoting elements to the meal.
04. Pandan Leaves
Pandan leaves, also known as ‘Rampe,’ come from various species of screw-pine plants. These blade-like leaves are characterized by a rich, nutty aroma, making them a perfect complement to rice and curry-based dishes. Whether used as a wrapping for steamed rice or infused into coconut milk for curries, Pandan leaves impart their distinctive fragrance and flavor. Adding Pandan leaves to a dish is a simple yet effective way to enhance its aroma and taste, infusing the entire kitchen with an exotic and enticing scent. The versatility and aromatic charm of Pandan leaves make them a beloved ingredient in Southeast Asian cuisines.
05. Lemongrass (Sera)
Lemongrass, a tropical herb with culinary and medicinal properties, is characterized by its long, thick stalks of grass producing an essential oil with a lemon-like aroma, from which its name is derived. In Sri Lankan cooking, the lower bulbous portions of lemongrass are commonly used, either pounded or sliced, to add a harmonizing flavor to meat and savory dishes, making it a staple in local cuisine.
Beyond its culinary uses, lemongrass holds significant medicinal value. It acts as a diuretic, tonic, and stimulant, offering various health benefits. It is known to possess anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, making it valuable in traditional medicine practices. Additionally, lemongrass serves as an effective insect repellent, adding to its versatility as a herb in Sri Lanka.
Overall, lemongrass stands out as a multi-faceted herb, appreciated for its culinary delights and its diverse range of medicinal applications in Sri Lanka and beyond.
06. Cardamon
Cardamom considered one of the most exotic spices in the world, holds a prestigious position alongside Saffron and Vanilla. It belongs to the same botanical family as ginger and turmeric, showcasing its ancient and diverse origins.
With a history spanning over 4000 years, cardamom has been cultivated and cherished since ancient times. It found popularity in the civilizations of Rome, Egypt, and Greece, where it was highly valued for its aromatic and medicinal properties. Often referred to as the “Doctor of Spices,” cardamom boasts a range of amazing medicinal benefits. It has been traditionally used to alleviate various health issues, including digestive problems, respiratory conditions, and even as an aphrodisiac. Moreover, the ancient belief in cardamom’s supernatural powers led people to consider it a protector against evil spirits, adding a mystical dimension to its reputation.
Overall, cardamom’s long history, remarkable flavor, and numerous health benefits have secured its place as an extraordinary and cherished spice across cultures worldwide.
07. Cloves
Cloves, the dried unopened flower buds of an evergreen tree, are renowned for their incredibly intense spicy aroma and pungent bittersweet flavor. These aromatic buds play a crucial role in Eastern cuisine, where they are used to add rich flavor and fragrance to various meat and rice-based dishes.
Apart from their culinary uses, cloves have been employed for their medicinal properties for centuries. They are known for their effectiveness in dental applications, providing relief from toothaches and dental issues. Additionally, cloves aid in digestion difficulties and have been used in traditional medicine to alleviate gastrointestinal problems. Beyond their culinary and medicinal applications, cloves are also utilized in cosmetics, such as perfumes, soaps, and toothpaste, owing to their pleasant fragrance and therapeutic properties.
Sri Lanka stands out in the cloves market due to the superior quality of oils found in its cloves compared to those from other growers. This has earned Sri Lankan cloves a significant reputation and demand in the global spice trade.
08. Cumin
Cumin, derived from the seeds of Cuminum Cyminum plants, is a widely popular spice globally, renowned for its distinctive flavor and aroma. Commonly used in Middle Eastern and Asian cuisines, these boat-shaped seeds add a warm, earthy note to a variety of dishes. The most prevalent type is the yellow-brown variety, utilized in savory preparations, while the sweeter black cumin is often favored in dessert-making. Cumin’s versatility and strong presence in diverse culinary traditions make it a beloved and essential spice, enhancing the flavors of countless recipes and enriching the culinary experiences of people around the world.
As a flavoring medium, cumin is commonly used in roasted or ground form. Toasting the cumin seeds is a popular method to unlock their warm, earthy aroma and sweet-spicy flavor, making them an excellent complement to vegetable curries or meat-based dishes. In addition to its culinary uses, cumin is known for its medicinal properties, aiding in digestive difficulties, managing blood cholesterol levels, and offering potential benefits for individuals with diabetes.
09. Coriander
Coriander, a delicate herb, is a common sight in almost every vegetable garden in Sri Lanka. With a history spanning centuries, it has been a staple in Sri Lankan cuisine. Both its seeds and leaves are utilized as a stimulant and spice, adding flavor and aroma to various dishes. Moreover, coriander is cherished for its medicinal properties, offering relief from upset stomachs, nausea, bacterial infections, and various other health issues. Its versatile nature makes it an indispensable part of Sri Lankan culinary and traditional medicine practices.
Coriander seeds are prized for their spicy citrus flavor, especially when roasted and ground into a fine powder for use in broth-based dishes, and they are a vital component of Sri Lanka Curry powder. Chefs cherish coriander as the entire plant, including leaves and stems, is edible and imparts a tangy citrus aroma. This versatility makes it an excellent addition to curries, salads, and a popular garnish in high-end restaurants worldwide, enhancing the flavors and presentation of various culinary delights.
10. Nutmeg and Mace
Originating from the same tree, Nutmeg and Mace are siblings in the spice world. Nutmeg, an oval-shaped fruit, and Mace, the reddish webbing that wraps around the pit, are renowned for their versatility in culinary applications. While they are commonly used in desserts like cakes and pies, they also lend their unique flavor to savory dishes such as sausages and stews. Notably, these spices are essential ingredients in seasonal Christmas beverages like eggnog. Their warm, aromatic profiles add depth and richness to various cuisines, making them cherished staples in kitchens worldwide. Nutmeg and Mace truly elevate both sweet and savory dishes to delectable heights.
11. Ginger
Ginger, a spice that needs no introduction, has earned its place as one of the most widely used spices worldwide. Extracted from the thick gnarly roots of the ginger plant, which originated in Asian regions, it has become a favorite ingredient for chefs and doctors alike. Its sheer versatility in both culinary and medicinal applications has contributed to its popularity. Ginger adds a distinct, pungent flavor and aroma to various dishes, enhancing the taste of everything from stir-fries to curries. Additionally, its medicinal properties, such as aiding digestion and alleviating nausea, make it a cherished remedy in traditional medicine practices.
Ginger holds a significant place in Sri Lankan and Asian cuisine, renowned for its unique flavor profile. It imparts a tart, peppery heat with a subtle sweetness that mellows when cooked, adding a delightful dimension to dishes. This versatile spice is often used to tenderize and enhance the flavors of meats, elevating the overall taste. Additionally, ginger can be ground into a fine powder, perfect for adding a warm, aromatic touch to desserts and confections. Another popular use is slicing the root and steeping it with hot water to make ginger tea, a beloved beverage that not only offers a soothing experience but also comes with a host of health benefits, making ginger a true culinary and medicinal treasure.
Beyond its role as a spice, ginger is celebrated for its diverse health benefits. It acts as an antioxidant, combating free radicals in the body. Ginger is known to be effective in alleviating digestion difficulties and nausea, making it a popular natural remedy for stomach ailments. Additionally, it has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce muscle pains and inflammation. Moreover, ginger extract has been found to support cardiovascular health, making it a valuable addition to a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
