Are Using Freshly Ground Spices Really Better?

November 6th, 2011

If you are thinking of buying an electric spice and nut grinder you may be wondering if freshly ground spices are really better than the ones you buy in the grocery store. Well, it all depends; some keep their flavor better than other.

First of all it is important to realize that that freshly ground is always better even with the spices that keep their flavor reasonably well when you store them properly. When buying these from the grocery store it is vital to check the expiry date and make sure you buy fresh spices and herbs!

Keep in mind that with an electric grinder you will have no trouble quickly grounding the spices you need for a recipe. Apart from that you will really taste the difference in the flavor it gives all your dishes.

There are a few things you have to keep in mind when you are thinking about buying one. Most important is that it should be very strong and able to grind really hard nuts and spices. Some spices such as allspice is really very hard and you need a very strong one for them.

Certain spices lose their flavor a lot faster than others, so to save you time it is not so bad to buy grounded cinnamon, for instance as it keeps its flavor for quite a while. On the other hand I find that the ground coriander I sometimes buy are quite flavorless and really a waste of money.

Here is a list of spices it is really best to use freshly ground:

  • Coriander
  • Allspice
  • Cayenne Pepper
  • Cloves (they lose their flavor completely!)
  • Cumin
  • Mustard Seeds
  • Nutmeg
  • All kinds of pepper
  • Thyme
  • Turmeric

Here is a list that you can safely store grounded for a while:

  1. Cinnamon
  2. Mace
  3. Curry powder mixes

Most herbs (keep in mind that herbs lose a lot of their flavor when dried and grounded so you will have to use more than you would have with fresh herbs.)

OK, so I think I have made my case for an electric nut and spice grinder.

About the Author:
If you are looking for quality and a strong one, I can recommend the Cuisinart SG 10 Electric Spice and Nut Grinder. Have a look at: http://mykitchenonline.info/cuisinart-sg-10-electric-spice-and-nut-grinder/

Author: Hendrika Van Aardt