what are teh essential herbs & spices I should have.........?

[oaktree]

Want to cook more (especaily curries) but have no idea what I actaully need beyond mixed herbs......

If you're going to do curries, you definately need cumin & coriander. Paprika maybe and ground ginger. Tumeric and chilli powder. I think schwarzt do a pack of curry spices actually.

For curries I use turmeric and garam masala mostly along with ginger, garlic and fresh chilli.

I also have in paprika, smoked paprika, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cumin, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, cardamon seeds, sumac, dried fenugreek leaves.

I also have fresh coriander, parsley and mint all the time.

The ones I use most are:

Mustard seeds, cumin seeds, turmeric, chilli powder, ground cumin, cardomom (sp) pods for curries

Plus thyme and chilli flakes - for chillis!

Plus paprika, cinnamon and nutmeg and ground ginger but use it in little other than gingerbread.