The foundation of Indian cuisine

Herbs and spices are at the heart of Indian cuisine. Rather than one dominant flavor, Indian cooking is all about the perfect balance of warm, earthy, fresh, and spicy aromas. Carefully combining different spices creates the deep flavors that Indian curries, rice dishes, and street food are known for worldwide.

Whether you are preparing a creamy Butter Chicken, fragrant Biryani, or a vegetarian Dal, the right herbs make all the difference.

Popular Indian herbs and spices

Our range includes:

• Garam Masala
• Turmeric
• Cumin
• Coriander
• Cardamom
• Chili
• Cinnamon
• Mustard seeds
• Fenugreek
• Fennel seeds
• Nigella seeds (Kalonji)
• Asafoetida (Hing)
• Cloves
• Bay leaves
• Black pepper

We also offer complete herb mixes that make it easy to prepare authentic Indian dishes.

For curries, rice dishes, and more

Indian herbs are versatile and used in countless dishes. They add flavor to curries, tandoori dishes, biryani, lentil curries, chutneys, marinades, and vegetable dishes. Briefly roasting the herbs or frying them in oil brings out their aromas and creates the distinctive flavor of Indian cuisine.

Authentic brands

At Tjin’s Toko, you will find a wide range of Indian herbs and spices from well-known brands such as:

• TRS
• Heera
• National
• Shan
• Mehnat

This way, you can easily cook at home with the same ingredients used in Indian kitchens.

Discover more

Want to learn more about Indian cooking? Visit our Indian inspiration page for recipes, cooking tips, and background information on Indian cuisine. Also discover our Indian Curries & Curry Pastes, Basmati Rice, Chutneys & Pickles, and Lentils & Pulses to complete your Indian meal.

Frequently asked questions about Indian herbs & spices

What are the most important Indian herbs?

The best-known Indian herbs are garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, cardamom, chili, cinnamon, mustard seeds, and fenugreek. These spices form the basis of many traditional Indian dishes.

What is Garam Masala?

Garam Masala is an aromatic herb mix that is widely used in Indian cuisine. The composition varies by region, but often contains cumin, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper. The mix is usually added at the end of preparation for extra flavor.

Which herbs do you use for Butter Chicken?

For Butter Chicken, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili, ginger, and garlic are used, among others. With a ready-made herb mix or curry paste, you can easily make this popular dish at home.

What is the difference between Indian herbs and curry?

Indian herbs are individual spices such as cumin, turmeric, and cardamom. A curry is a dish or a prepared herb mix in which several spices come together. With individual herbs, you can create an authentic curry yourself.

Are Indian herbs always spicy?

No. Many Indian herbs are actually aromatic and add fragrance and depth to a dish without much spiciness. The heat usually comes from chili peppers or chili powder, while herbs such as cardamom, cinnamon, and cumin mainly provide a warm and spicy flavor.

How do you best store Indian herbs?

Store herbs and spices in a cool, dry, and dark place in a well-sealed container. This way, their aroma and flavor are preserved for as long as possible.

Which herbs are essential for Indian cooking?

When you are just starting with Indian cooking, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili, and mustard seeds are an excellent foundation. With these, you can prepare many classic Indian dishes.