Step into an Indian kitchen, and the first thing that strikes you is the aroma—a warm, vibrant symphony of spices sizzling in hot oil. Spices are more than just flavoring agents in Indian cuisine; they are the soul of the food, transforming even the simplest ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.
India's relationship with spices dates back thousands of years. It was the lure of these exotic flavors that drew traders, explorers, and conquerors to its shores. The spice trade not only shaped global commerce but also influenced the cuisines of the world, from Asia to Europe and beyond.