If you cook South Indian food regularly, having the right spices on hand makes all the difference. Here are the 10 essential Kerala spices every Indian household in the UK should stock.
1. Turmeric Powder (Manjal Podi)
The golden foundation of South Indian cooking. Used in virtually every curry, marinade, and rice dish. Also valued for its health benefits.
2. Red Chilli Powder (Mulaku Podi)
Kerala red chilli powder is bolder and more aromatic than generic chilli powder. Essential for curries, fish dishes, and pickles.
3. Coriander Powder (Malli Podi)
Adds a warm, citrusy depth to curries, chutneys, and dry rubs. One of the most-used spices in Kerala cuisine.
4. Garam Masala
A fragrant blend of warm spices used to finish curries. Kerala-style garam masala includes star anise and fennel for a distinctive flavour.
5. Black Pepper (Kurumulaku)
Kerala's famous Malabar pepper is world-renowned. Use whole in rice dishes and rasam, or ground in marinades.
6. Mustard Seeds (Kaduku)
The starting point for most Kerala tadkas (tempering). The popping of mustard seeds in hot coconut oil signals the beginning of almost every Kerala dish.
7. Cumin Seeds (Jeerakam)
Used whole for tempering or ground for spice blends. Earthy and warming, essential in dals and vegetable dishes.
8. Curry Leaves (Karivepila)
Fresh or dried, curry leaves add an irreplaceable aroma to Kerala food. Used in nearly every savoury preparation.
9. Cardamom (Elakka)
Kerala is the world's leading cardamom producer. Used in biryani, payasam, chai, and spice blends.
10. Dry Red Chillies (Varutharacha)
Whole dried chillies are used in tempering for sambars, curries, and pickles. Adds a deeper, smokier heat than powder.
All of these Kerala spices are available in our UK online store with fast delivery from Essex. Browse our spice range to stock your kitchen today.