India is often called the Land of Spices — and rightly so! Our food is full of flavor, aroma, and colorful masalas. But here’s the twist: not all spices we use today are originally from India. Some of our everyday kitchen spices actually came from Europe, the Middle East, or even South America! Let’s explore which spices are native to India and which ones are foreign guests turned desi stars in our kitchens. Section 1: Spices That Are Truly Indian These spices are believed to be native to the Indian subcontinent or have been used here since ancient times. 1. Turmeric (Haldi) Used for thousands of years Medicinal and religious value Anti-inflammatory & natural colorant 2. Black Pepper (Kali Mirch) Known as "Black Gold" Ancient spice trade centered around it Still a key part of South Indian cuisine 3. Cardamom (Elaichi) Native to the Western Ghats of India Used in sweets, chai, biryani 4. Asafoetida (Hing) Though plant comes from Iran, its use and processing technique is u...
When we talk about Indian kitchens, vegetables naturally come to mind. But have you ever wondered that some of the vegetables we eat daily aren't native to India at all? These foreign veggies came from other parts of the world and gradually blended so well that we now consider them our own. Let’s explore 10 such vegetables that are not originally from India, but now feel completely desi! 1. Tomato Origin: South America Came to India: 16th century via Portuguese traders Fun Fact: Once considered poisonous, now it's the base of many Indian curries and chutneys. 2. Potato Origin: Peru and Bolivia Came to India: 17th century Fun Fact: Can you imagine samosas, parathas or street chaat without it? No way! 3. Chili (Green/Red) Origin: Mexico Came to India: By Portuguese traders Fun Fact: Now it's the soul of spicy Indian food! 4. Capsicum (Bell Pepper) Origin: Americas Came to India: During British era Fun Fact: Ofte...