Exploring Indian Food: Spices, Methods & Office Kitchen Tips

A Report by CYS Global Remit Office Facilities Management Unit

Introduction to Indian Cuisine

Indian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavours, aromas, and traditions that has captivated food lovers worldwide. At its heart are the spices—tiny powerhouses that transform simple ingredients into unforgettable dishes.

The most common spices form the backbone of Indian cooking:

• Turmeric adds earthy warmth and that distinctive golden hue

• Cumin offers a nutty depth that grounds many dishes

• Coriander brings a gentle, citrusy sweetness

• Cardamom imparts a sweet, floral note that lifts curries and rice dishes

• Garam masala, a blend of spices, is the soul of many Indian curries

Each spice brings its own character to the table. Together, they create the complex, layered flavours that make Indian food so distinctive and memorable.

Cooking Methods

Cooking Indian food is as much about technique as it is about ingredients. The foundation often begins with a tadka, or tempering, where spices are briefly fried in hot oil or ghee to release their essential oils. This crucial step infuses the dish with layers of flavour that simply can'tbe achieved by adding raw spices later.

Slow simmering is another hallmark of Indian cooking, allowing spices to meld beautifully with vegetables, lentils, or meats. The gentle heat coaxes out the full potential of each ingredient, creating depth and harmony in the final dish. Fresh herbs like coriander and mint are typically added at the end for brightness, providing a fresh counterpoint to the rich, warm spices.

Office Kitchen Tips

Now, how do you bring this magic into an office kitchen like ours at CYS? The key is simplicity and planning.

Choose the right dishes. Choose recipes that require minimal equipment—think one-pot meals like dal (lentil stew) or vegetable pulao (spiced rice). These dishes are forgiving, flavourful, and won't demand fancy gadgets or multiple pots.

Invest in portable equipment. A portable induction cooktop can be a lifesaver, giving you flexibility and control without hogging the office hob.

Prepare ahead. Pre-measure your spices at home in small containers to avoid clutter and save time. This also means you won't be fumbling with multiple jars whilst trying to keep an eye on your cooking.

Use convenient shortcuts. Canned coconut milk works brilliantly for creamy curries, and frozen vegetables offer convenience without sacrificing flavour. There's no shame in making life easier, authenticity is about flavour, not about chopping fresh vegetables at your desk.

With a bit of planning and the right approach, you can recreate the warmth and vibrancy of Indian cuisine right in your office kitchen. Your colleagues will thank you—and you might just start a lunchtime revolution.