Asian cuisine is built on a foundation of spices. Some of the most commonly used spices include:

• Cumin: Commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cooking, cumin adds a warm, earthy flavour to dishes. It’s often used in curries, stews, and spice mixes.  

• Turmeric: Known for its bright yellow colour, turmeric is a key ingredient in many Indian dishes and has anti-inflammatory benefits. It is commonly used in curries and rice dishes.  

• Chilli Powder: For those who like it hot, chilli powder adds a kick to your meals. It’s used in a variety of dishes, from curries to stir-fries.  

• Coriander Seeds: These add a citrusy, slightly sweet flavour and are often used in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisines.  

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Fresh Herbs and Aromatics

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A good Asian dish isn't just about spices – fresh herbs and aromatics bring your cooking to life. Some key ingredients include:

• Coriander (Cilantro): Often used as a garnish, coriander adds a fresh, citrusy flavour to salads, soups, and curries.  

• Lemongrass: This is used in Thai and Vietnamese dishes, adding a bright, fresh lemony aroma.  

• Ginger: Ginger is used across many Asian cuisines, providing a warm and slightly spicy flavour that complements both sweet and savoury dishes.  

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Sauces and Pastes

Sauces and pastes are another key component of Asian cooking, adding depth and complexity to your dishes. Here are some must-have sauces:

• Soy Sauce: A staple in Chinese and Japanese kitchens, soy sauce adds a salty, umami flavour to stir-fries, sushi, and marinades.  

• Fish Sauce: Often used in Thai and Vietnamese cooking, fish sauce gives dishes a salty, savoury punch and is essential in many Southeast Asian recipes.  

• Tamarind Paste: Used in Indian and Thai dishes, tamarind paste adds a tangy, sour flavour to curries, chutneys, and soups.  

Vegetables for Asian Dishes

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• Bok Choy: A type of Chinese cabbage, bok choy is commonly used in stir-fries, soups, and dumplings.  

• Aubergine (Eggplant): A versatile vegetable used in Indian, Chinese, and Thai cooking, aubergine adds a rich texture to curries and stir-fries.  

• Okra: Commonly found in Indian and Southeast Asian cooking, okra is used in stews and curries. It adds a unique texture and absorbs flavours well.  

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Fruits and Other Produce

• Limes: Essential in many Thai and Indian dishes, limes add a zesty flavour to curries and salads. They are also used to balance out the heat in spicy dishes.  

• Ginger: Fresh ginger is used to infuse both savoury and sweet dishes with a fragrant, peppery flavour.  

Simple Stir-Fry

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A stir-fry is a quick and easy way to showcase your fresh vegetables. Heat some oil, add your favourite vegetables (like bok choy, aubergine, and bell peppers), and season with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. It’s a simple yet flavourful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

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Classic Curry

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Curries are a great way to experiment with spices. Start with some chopped onions, garlic, and ginger in oil. Add your choice of spices (like cumin, turmeric, and chilli powder), then add fresh vegetables or meat. Pour in coconut milk or tomatoes and simmer. Serve your curry with rice for a delicious, hearty meal.

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Tasty Rice Dishes

Fluffy basmati rice paired with your favourite curry or stir-fry is the perfect base. Add some tamarind paste or lemon juice to your rice for a burst of flavour, or cook it with aromatic spices like cinnamon and cardamom for a fragrant treat.