Basic Ingredients

Information about core ingredients that define Asian cooking across different cuisines. Articles cover vegetables, spices, herbs and aromatics with their traditional uses and cultivation.

Asian Food Spices

The best Asian food spices come from seeds, roots and bark, here's how to store them fresh and grind them yourself for better flavour.

Garlic in Asian Cooking

Garlic has been a staple in Asian cooking for thousands of years, from Chinese stir-fries to Indian curries.

Growing Your Own Oriental Vegetables

Grow coriander and Thai basil at home in containers with simple care tips for a steady supply of fresh Asian cooking herbs.

Pepper and Its Use in Asian Cookery

Pepper started as a luxury spice worth its weight in gold and is now a staple in Asian cooking, available in different varieties with distinct flavors and uses.

The History and Uses of Ginger

Ginger has been valued for thousands of years across Asia, the Middle East and beyond for both cooking and treating common ailments like nausea and indigestion.

The History of Indian Food and Cookery

How religion and invasion shaped Indian cooking over thousands of years, from ancient grain processing to vegetarianism.

Using Chillies in Thai, Indian and Chinese Food

Chillies boost mood and health while adding heat to Thai, Indian and Chinese cooking, backed by science and centuries of culinary tradition.

Using Coconut in Asian Cooking

Coconut milk and oil are essential ingredients across Asian cuisines, offering versatility and nutrition in traditional dishes.

Using Herbs in Asian Cooking

Coriander, curry leaves and other herbs transform Asian cooking, each bringing their own flavor and history to the table.