History of the Kerala Spices
You will not be able to believe it that Kerala was a major spice exporter right from around 3000 BC !! It’s fame as a center of exotic spices travelled far and wide in the world. Soon, the Babilonians and Egyptians were importing spices from Kerala. Later, Arabs also started trading spices with Kerala. Actually, the spices of Kerala were so famous that in the old Sumerian records, Kerala is fondly referred to as “The Garden of Spice” or “The Spice Garden of India”. As the BC era came to closure, the fame of Kerala spices had reached to the Greeks and Romans. And they also came forth to do spice trading with Kerala, specially black pepper.
Later on, when Vaso da Gama discovered a direct route between Europe and India, then the Portuguese and Dutch started using this route to do frequent trading in spices of Kerala. Some even settled in Kerala, marrying the locals and thus giving birth to new hybrid cultures. Interesting, huh! The spices can add as much flavor to life as they do to the food!!
The spice gardens of Kerala
The Spice Garden Kerala tour that we took
The garden store
Famous Spices of Kerala
Pepper
Pepper is known as the king of the spices. And Kerala is world famous as one of the leading suppliers of pepper across the world. From Kerala, pepper first traveled to Arab countries. And from there, it reached Europe. Since then the Kerala pepper has been making non stop rounds of the world from Kerala 🙂
Cardamom
While pepper is called the ‘king of spices’, cardamom is referred to as ‘the queen of spices’. It is a spice known to be as old as the human civilization itself. Kerala boasts to grow the best known variety of cardamom in India. And this is also exported to several parts of the world, with Europe being a major importer.
Cinnamon
A spice which originates from Sri Lanka, and is grown in a few parts of Kerala, Cinnamon boasts of high antioxidant properties. Kerala is also one of the major consumers of cinnamon, with most of it’s recipes including this spice. Cinnamon doesn’t have a strong flavor like most other spices, and is considered relatively mild.
Ginger
Ginger is a spice extensively used in Indian curries. It has many medicinal values. Again, ginger is grown extensively in Kerala and is also used heavily in the cuisines of Kerala. We also use ginger in our cuisines. Not only that, we do use it’s medicinal properties. For instance, when we get cold, we use ginger extract in hot water with honey for instant relief.
Turmeric
Yet another important spice used in Indian curries. Actually, turmeric is believed to have antiseptic properties. It is believed to be a cleanser of human body. It is highly used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicines. We , in India, also use turmeric for home remedies of sickness. For instance, when you get a sore throat or a body pain, add a pinch of turmeric to a glass of warm water or milk and drink it at night before bed. It provides immediate relief.
Conclusion
So you see, Kerala has a life long connection with spices. It’s really very interesting to do a spice garden Kerala tour!! And to learn about the different spices, their role in human life and their benefits. So, when you happen to visit Kerala, don’t forget the spice garden. And do tell us how was your experience there…we will be awaiting to hear your story. You can also visit Periyar Spice Garden or Spice Garden Alleppey during your Kerala trip. These are also famous , and some of the Periyar Spice Garden also provide online shopping options.
Related resources from our past trips to Kerala
A scenic drive from Cochin to Munnar
6 must see places in Munnar, Kerala
Our Bangalore to Kerala road trip itinerary
A complete guide exploring the mesmerising Wayanad district of Kerala
One day exploring Varkala – the Amalfi of India
Spending 4 days in Munnar – the most beautiful hills of India
Listening to the sound of music at the majestic Athirapally Waterfalls
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Thank you for your post. This is excellent information. It is amazing and wonderful to visit your site.
I have never visited a spice garden but I bet it is great to see and smells wonderful. I will have to visit one when I go to India hopefully next winter. I would love to try the different spices in the great food over there 🙂
Sure Clare. You are going to enjoy it when you do
I had no idea what some of the benefits of common spices were! I generally have followed my mom’s north indian cooking in the kitchen and am familiar with all of these. But I’m so glad I got to see your list with remedies including some I haven’t yet heard of!
Great that you are familiar with the spices, now that you know their benefits, you can go back and use the spices accordingly
What a great post on the different everyday spices found in India! I didn’t know that Kerala is the world’s leading suppiler of peppers. I love these spices but it’s not always easy to get them in Canada due to the climate. I wish we had easier (and cheaper) access to turmeric and chili because they make food taste so good!
I can’t imagine life without these spices .. when you happen to visit the Indian subcontinent, do try out these spices
How interesting. Ever since I have moved to a more plant based diet, I am finding myself more curious about the spices we use in our food for flavour. One of them that I am constantly learning more about is turmeric. It would be so wonderful to get some of the most natural forms of turmeric from the garden here.
Exactly Riely. You can easily grow turmeric in your pot or garden as well 🙂