There are plenty of options for buying spices whether fresh or ground and in bulk, small pouches and in plastic jars. There are certain situations where purchasing premium spices may be worth the extra cost.
Here are a few examples:
- Quality: Premium spices are often of a higher quality than regular spices. They may be fresher, more flavorful, and have a stronger aroma.
- Sustainability: Some premium spices are sourced from organic, fair-trade, or sustainable farms, so if sustainability is important to you, it might be worth the extra cost.
- Specialty spices: Some premium spices are not commonly found in regular grocery stores, such as heirloom varietals or unique blends, so if you’re looking for a unique or rare spice, it might be worth the extra cost.
- Cooking with fresh spices: Some premium spices are available fresh, and it is know that fresh spices have a stronger aroma, more potency and a better flavor than dried spices.
- Gourmet cooking: If you’re a gourmet cook, and you want to elevate your dishes, premium spices can add a level of complexity and depth that regular spices may not provide.
- Health benefits: Some premium spices have higher levels of beneficial compounds such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory or anti-cancer properties, that you might want to have in your diet.
That being said, it’s always good to check the expiration date of any spice you buy, as they loose their potency over time, even premium spices.
Also, you could try a small amount of the premium spice first before committing to purchasing a larger quantity.
You might find that for your needs, the cheapest form of spice works just fine for you.
Sometimes fresh spices are better
Instead of looking simply at price when purchasing spices, you may also want to consider the form of the spice. Fresh spices often have more flavor and aroma than do dried ones which can come in handy for some food and drinks that use them.
This may also increase the cost but can improve the flavor, aroma and look of the final product that you make.
Some spices that are commonly available fresh include:
- Ginger: Fresh ginger root has a more potent flavor and aroma than dried ginger powder. It can be grated, minced, or sliced and added to a variety of dishes.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves have a more pungent flavor and aroma than dried garlic powder. They can be minced or crushed and added to a variety of dishes.
- Turmeric: Fresh turmeric root has a more vibrant color and a slightly sweeter, earthier flavor than dried turmeric powder. It can be grated or minced and added to a variety of dishes.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro leaves have a more vibrant flavor and aroma than dried cilantro. They can be chopped and added to a variety of dishes.
- Chilies: Fresh chili peppers have a more potent flavor and heat than dried chili powder. They can be chopped and added to a variety of dishes.
- Lemon Grass: Fresh lemon grass stalks have a more vibrant lemon flavor than dried lemon grass powder. They can be bruised and added to a variety of dishes.
- Basil: Fresh basil leaves have a more vibrant flavor and aroma than dried basil. They can be torn or chopped and added to a variety of dishes.
- Mint: Fresh mint leaves have a more vibrant flavor and aroma than dried mint. They can be torn or chopped and added to a variety of dishes.
It’s worth noting that not all spices are commonly available fresh, many are only available dried. It’s good to check the options at your local grocery store or specialty food market.