As autumn approaches and we crave roasted, toasty, and nutty flavors, it's the perfect time to explore the art of toasting spices. Toasting spices like fenugreek seeds, cumin seeds, and whole chiles deepens their flavor and adds a new dimension to your cooking.
Toasting spices mellows their intensity, allowing you to sprinkle them whole as a garnish—like mustard seeds—or use them as a crunchy decor, like sesame seeds. It’s a simple way to add richness to your dishes.
How to Toast Spices:
- Heat a heavy pan (cast iron works great) over medium heat until it's warmed up.
- Add your spices, such as fennel seeds, peppercorns, or star anise.
- Shake or stir frequently for 30 seconds to a minute. The spices will begin to darken in color and may start to jump as they toast.
- Transfer to a bowl immediately to avoid over-toasting.
Pro Tip: Spices like cloves and sesame seeds toast quickly due to their high oil content, so keep a close eye on them!
If you already love that toasty flavor, try some of our pre-toasted spices like Toasted Cumin (yup, we do the work for you!), Syrian Za’atar, and Kashmiri Garam Masala.
