The Steps
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1. Set the pan over the lowest possible heat. Add the desired spice to the pan. Using your fingertips or a spoon, move the spice around the pan to prevent it from burning. Be careful not to burn the spice, as it will become bitter and inedible. Monitor the toasting process by smelling the spice. 01:38
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2. Pour the toasted spices into the base of a spice grinder. Attach the top and press down to start the motor. Pulse for a few seconds, check the texture, and continue grinding until the desired consistency is achieved. 03:58
What You'll Need
Equipment
- Electric spice grinder
- Sauté pan
Ingredients
- Various whole spices
Chef Notes
If you don’t have the time to toast and grind spices at home, there are
many good brands of pre-ground spices available. Whether whole or
pre-ground, it is essential to keep the spices as fresh as possible. The
longer a spice is stored, the more likely it is to lose flavor. Simon recommends storing spices in the freezer, as this allows them to keep their flavor for longer periods of time.
Simon recommends grinding the spices separately, as they have different consistencies and flavors.
Toasting
and grinding spices will yield significantly more flavor than untreated
spices. Toasting helps coax flavor out of the spice. Grinding increases
surface area. The smaller a spice is cut, the more surface area it will
have. This allows the spice to release more oils and flavor into the
overall dish.
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