Understanding the difference between Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spices and how to use them in your cooking.

When it comes to cooking, spices play a vital role in elevating the flavors of your dishes. Among the many different types of spices available, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spices are some of the most popular and widely used in the world. However, many people often confuse these two types of spices, not realizing that they are, in fact, different from each other. In this blog post, we will be discussing the main differences between Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spices, and how you can use them to enhance the flavors of your cooking.

First and foremost, let’s define what we mean by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spices. Mediterranean spices refer to the spices that are commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine, which includes countries such as Greece, Italy, Spain, and Turkey. These spices are known for their strong, bold, and complex flavors, which are perfect for grilling and marinading meats. Some examples of Mediterranean spices include basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram.

On the other hand, Middle Eastern spices refer to the spices that are commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine, which includes countries such as Iraq, Iran, Lebanon, and Egypt. These spices are known for their warm, earthy, and aromatic flavors, which are perfect for adding depth and complexity to dishes. Some examples of Middle Eastern spices include cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cinnamon.

Now that we have a better understanding of what these two types of spices are, let’s take a look at how you can use them in your cooking. Mediterranean spices are perfect for grilling and marinading meats, such as chicken, beef, and pork. They are also great for adding flavor to seafood dishes, such as grilled fish or shrimp. To use Mediterranean spices, simply mix them with olive oil and brush them onto your meats or seafood before grilling.

Middle Eastern spices, on the other hand, are perfect for adding depth and complexity to dishes such as stews, curries, and soups. They are also great for adding flavor to vegetarian dishes such as lentils and chickpeas. To use Middle Eastern spices, simply mix them with olive oil and sauté them in a pan before adding your meat or vegetables.

In conclusion, both Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spices are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of different dishes. Understanding the main differences between these two types of spices and how to use them in your cooking will help you to elevate the flavors of your dishes, and impress your friends and family. At Spice Bazaar, we offer a wide range of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spices, so be sure to check out our website for more information and inspiration.