Enthusiasm for spicy food is a world-wide phenomenon and today, spices play a huge part in almost every cuisine, with ever more interesting and unusual spices becoming available. This beautiful book is a comprehensive, practical source book and kitchen reference, with authoritative information on all the common and lesser-known spices.

The introductory section provides straightforward, easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions on preparation and cooking techniques, and essential information on storage and equipment. The book then features a definitive full-color A-Z index of 50 spices and aromatic ingredients, with each shown in all its various forms - whole, ground, dried or fresh--and includes facts about its history, origins, and medicinal and culinary uses. In addition, there are illustrated recipes for over 35 spice blends, from Apple Pie Spice to Kashmiri Masala. Finally, a section on using spices in the home provides illustrated instructions on how to make scented gifts and decorations.

This volume gives a fascinating insight into the world of spices, revealing their historical importance and the development of the spice trade, as well as their diverse uses. Combining informative text with glorious photographs, it is an intriguing and authoritative guide to spices of the world--the only book on identifying, preparing and using spices that you will ever need.