10 Types of Indonesian Spices, Preserving Various Benefits

Kapanlagi.com - It is no secret that Indonesia is very rich in natural resources. The fertile land in Indonesia is home to various plants, including spices that have numerous benefits. It is not surprising that various types of spices were sought after during the colonial era because they were used as the most effective medicine. Spices themselves are parts of plants with strong aromas that are usually used as ingredients in various dishes. No wonder Indonesian cuisine is known for its rich flavors.

Moreover, Indonesian spices have been widely circulated around the world. Although many countries have also grown spices in their own countries, it seems that Indonesian spices are still the favorites. It is also important to note that Indonesian spices are very diverse. Starting from the shape, aroma, and taste, each spice is different. So, to satisfy your curiosity, here are a series of Indonesian spices that are the mainstay of Indonesian cuisine and have various other benefits. Let's directly explore the complete review.

1. Ginger

(credit: freepik)

Ginger may be one of the most popular types of spices. This type of rhizome plant has many benefits. Ginger is often used as a food ingredient, beverage, and has several other health benefits. This warming spice has a distinctive taste that is slightly spicy. The benefits of ginger for health include relieving nausea, aiding digestion, boosting the immune system, relieving flu and cough, and treating diarrhea. Ginger can grow in almost all regions of Indonesia.

2. Turmeric

Next, the most popular type of Indonesian spice is turmeric. This type of rhizome plant has many benefits, including being used as a herbal medicine and cooking ingredient. The benefits of turmeric include relieving bloating, treating ulcers, treating diarrhea, reducing inflammation, helping with weight loss, and maintaining brain health. No wonder turmeric is the main ingredient in traditional herbal medicine.

3. Cinnamon

(credit: freepik)

One popular type of spice is cinnamon. This spice, which has a fragrant and fresh aroma, is often added to various dishes to enhance the taste. Not only is it used as a seasoning in food, but cinnamon also has many health benefits.

With its numerous properties, cinnamon is just as beneficial as other spices in terms of providing health benefits such as preventing cancer, controlling blood sugar, promoting heart and brain health, fighting bacteria and fungi, and even aiding fertility. Therefore, it is advisable to consume it regularly in the right amount.

4. Pepper

There are two types of pepper known as white pepper and black pepper. However, the famous pepper in Indonesia is white pepper, also known as pepper. Pepper itself has a slightly bitter, spicy, and warm taste. It is known that the main producer of pepper is in Lampung and Bangka. Besides being used as a mandatory seasoning in cooking, pepper is also useful for warming the body and treating influenza.

5. Clove

(credit: freepik)

Furthermore, cloves are also one of the main spices in Indonesian cuisine. Cloves are widely used in various types of dishes, from soups, cakes, to warm beverages. Not only that, cloves are also good for the body's health, such as treating allergies to cold air, helping to treat infections, inflammation, pain, and others.

6. Cardamom

Cardamom is also a spice commonly used in Indonesian cuisine. In cooking, cardamom can provide a fresh and refreshing sensation to food. In addition to being used as a spice, this spice is also often used as a traditional medicine. It is not surprising, as there are several benefits of cardamom for health. The benefits of cardamom include aiding digestion, having anti-inflammatory properties, being good for the kidneys, relieving stress, and many other benefits.

7. Nutmeg

(credit: freepik)

Nutmeg is a type of spice that is very famous in Europe. Nutmeg itself is a plant that comes from the Banda Islands, Maluku. Not only as a food seasoning, but nutmeg also has many benefits for the body, such as warming the body and maintaining metabolic health. Usually, the fruit of this plant is processed into candied fruit. Then the seeds are often used to enhance the taste of dishes.

8. Coriander

Coriander, which falls into the category of spices and kitchen herbs, is also very popular in Indonesia. Coriander is almost similar to pepper, but it is smaller in size and has a slightly rough skin. When coriander is soaked in water, it is very beneficial for health. Besides being popular and often used as a food seasoning, it is also useful for relieving bloating.

9. Lemongrass

(credit: freepik)

Lemongrass has long been used as an ingredient in food or drinks. The fresh taste of lemongrass can make our body feel warmer. In addition, its fragrant and distinctive aroma also makes this plant widely used for aromatherapy. Therefore, many people are fond of this plant, which utilizes its stem. The benefits of lemongrass for health are diverse, ranging from increasing body temperature to relieving pain experienced by women during PMS.

10. Galangal

Lastly, another popular type of spice is galangal. Galangal itself has a physical characteristic with a texture similar to ginger. It is no wonder that many people have difficulty distinguishing between these two types of spices. To differentiate them, galangal has a brighter, reddish color and its flesh is slightly hard when cut. Galangal is used by crushing it first before mixing it with dishes. This type of spice is usually used for coconut milk-based dishes, sour vegetables, and stir-fries.

Those are some typical Indonesian spices. Of course, you can easily find them in the market at very affordable prices. Hopefully, it is beneficial.

(kpl/dtm)