5 things your child should remember while cooking with spices

Spices are indispensable components of a recipe. They not only add to the taste and flavour to the food, but also come with a plethora of health benefits. For example, turmeric, an antioxidant, is known to lower cholesterol and improve blood pressure levels. Similarly, cloves are known to prevent common cold, boost immunity and improve digestion. So, while introducing your kids to cooking, make sure they are well aware of the essential spices used in every Indian household. Encourage them to follow these guidelines while using spices. 

Spices should be added in the right proportion 
This is the most important culinary lesson that kids should imbibe while cooking. However, the amount of spice one should add depends upon two factors: Quantity of ingredients and the taste of those who’ll have the food. Lack of proportion while it comes to spices can be a recipe for disaster.  

They should be stored right 
Teach your child to store the spices in airtight containers, label them properly and keep them in a cool and dark corner of the kitchen. This will keep the spices in good condition, and increase their shelf life. When spices come in contact with air, their flavour and colour drain out. This may lead to speedy expiration. 

Check the expiry date  
This is true for any edible item and spices are no exceptions. If your child has to handle a new packet of turmeric which has not been used before by anyone, ask him to quickly check the dates of manufacture and expiry and then add them accordingly. 

Grind the spices well 
This is very crucial for extracting the ideal taste and flavour of spices. The fineness of a grind becomes the deciding factor between mild and harsh taste.  

Pay attention to the way you use spices 
Ground spices can be cooked in hot oil to boost their aroma. Whole spices, on the other hand, can be toasted in a hot pan to bring out their best flavour. The way one uses spices in a recipe can make a huge difference in the taste.