Spices

Physical Description

Bright yellow to orange powder; warm, slightly bitter flavor; root in fresh form is cylindrical and brownish

Light brown, elongated seeds; earthy, warm flavor; commonly available as whole seeds or ground powder

Round, light brown seeds; mild, citrusy flavor; available as whole seeds or ground powder

Small green or black pods; intense, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor; contains small black seeds inside

Small, dark brown, nail-shaped buds; strong, sweet, and slightly bitter flavor; used whole or ground

Thin, light brown quills or sticks; sweet and woody flavor; also available as ground powder

Small, round, black wrinkled seeds; sharp and pungent flavor; available whole, cracked, or ground

Bright red, elongated pods; very hot and pungent flavor; available whole, flaked, or ground

Small, yellowish-brown, angular seeds; slightly bitter, nutty flavor; used whole or ground

Small, round seeds; yellow, brown, or black; sharp, pungent flavor; used whole, ground, or as mustard paste

Pale yellow, pungent-smelling resin; intense, savory flavor; typically used in powdered form mixed with flour

Dark green, elliptical leaves; aromatic, slightly bitter flavor; used whole, dried

Light green, oval seeds; sweet, licorice-like flavor; used whole or ground

Brown, oval seed; warm, sweet, and slightly nutty flavor; used grated or ground

Lacy, red covering of the nutmeg seed; warm, sweet, and slightly peppery flavor; available whole or ground

Thin, red threads; sweet, floral flavor; very aromatic and used sparingly

Brown, pod-like fruit; tangy and sweet-sour flavor; used as pulp, concentrate, or dried

Shiny, dark green leaves; aromatic and slightly citrusy flavor; used fresh or dried

White or pinkish bulbs; pungent and spicy flavor; used fresh, dried, or powdered

Light brown, knobby root; spicy and slightly sweet flavor; used fresh, dried, or powdered

Small, ridged, oval seeds; strong, thyme-like flavor; used whole or ground

Small, flat, oval seeds; aromatic and slightly bitter flavor; used whole or ground

Small, black, tear-drop shaped seeds; mildly bitter, onion-like flavor; used whole