As the festive season approaches, the allure of winter spices becomes irresistible, infusing our homes with warmth and rich aromas. These spices not only enhance the flavors of holiday treats but also offer a comforting embrace during the colder months.
“When you start reaching for spices to add to your holiday meals and baked treats, you are actually reaching for amazing mood boosting and health boosting ingredients without realizing it. Cloves, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and star anise are holiday staples, but also foods that we should incorporate into our meals all year long,” shares Jaya Jaya Myra, former immunologist and bestselling author and mind-body wellness expert.
Let’s explore what spices Jaya Jaya Myra recommends we use during the holidays to incorporate all year round, especially in the winter!
Cinnamon: The Quintessential Winter Spice
Cinnamon’s sweet and woody notes make it a staple in winter cuisine. It’s a key ingredient in mulled wine, where its warmth complements the richness of red wine and the zest of citrus fruits. Beyond beverages, cinnamon elevates baked goods like gingerbread cookies and cinnamon rolls, adding depth and sweetness. Its versatility extends to savory dishes, where it imparts a subtle warmth to stews and tagines.
Cinnamon can help stabilize blood sugar levels, which may reduce sugar cravings and support mental focus during busy holiday seasons. Incorporate a dash of cinnamon into your morning oatmeal or tea to start your day on a grounded note.
Nutmeg: Aromatic and Earthy
Nutmeg offers a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, enhancing both sweet and savory dishes. A dash of freshly grated nutmeg can transform eggnog into a holiday classic, while its inclusion in béchamel sauce adds complexity. Nutmeg also pairs beautifully with vegetables like spinach and butternut squash, enriching their natural flavors. It also has natural sedative properties that may promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Add a pinch of nutmeg to a warm glass of milk or an evening dessert to unwind after a hectic day.
Cloves: Intensely Fragrant
Cloves bring a pungent and sweet-spicy profile, making them indispensable in holiday cooking. They are essential in spiced beverages like mulled cider and glögg, a traditional Nordic drink enjoyed during winter festivities. Cloves are rich in antioxidants and can help boost immunity during colder months. Brew clove tea or add a few cloves to soups and stews to support overall health and resilience. In baking, cloves contribute to the distinctive taste of treats like Pfeffernüsse, traditional German spice cookies.
Ginger: Zesty and Warming
Ginger aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties that can ease winter aches or discomfort. Sip on ginger tea or add fresh ginger to stir-fries to invigorate your body and soothe inflammation. Ginger’s sharp and spicy character adds vibrancy to winter recipes. It’s the star of gingerbread cookies, imparting a zesty kick that balances sweetness. Ginger also shines in savory dishes, such as Asian-inspired stir-fries and soups, where it adds warmth and depth. Additionally, ginger tea is a popular remedy for soothing throats during the cold season.
Cardamom: Sweet and Floral
Cardamom’s unique sweet and floral notes make it a cherished spice in winter baking. It’s a key component in Scandinavian treats like lussekatter, saffron-infused buns traditionally enjoyed on St. Lucia’s Day. Cardamom also enhances the flavor of chai tea, providing a comforting and aromatic experience.
Cardamom can help reduce stress and improve mood, thanks to its aromatic compounds. Sprinkle cardamom on your morning coffee or blend it into a smoothie for a refreshing and calming effect.
Allspice: A Symphony of Flavors
Allspice combines the flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, offering a harmonious addition to winter dishes. It’s commonly used in holiday desserts like fruitcakes and mincemeat pies, contributing to their rich and complex profiles. Allspice also features in savory applications, such as seasoning for meats and stews, adding depth and warmth.
Additionally, allspice contains compounds that may ease muscle tension and improve circulation. Use it to season roasted vegetables or stews to warm your body from the inside out.
Anise: Licorice-Like Sweetness
Anise provides a distinct licorice flavor, enhancing both sweet and savory recipes. Anise seeds can alleviate bloating and support digestive health, making them a great addition to rich holiday meals. Brew anise tea or incorporate it into baked goods to enjoy its soothing benefits. It’s a traditional ingredient in holiday confections like Italian pizzelle cookies and German Springerle. Anise seeds are also used in spiced breads and cakes, imparting a unique and festive taste.
Vanilla: Smooth and Sweet
Vanilla’s aroma is known to reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of calm and its smooth and sweet profile makes it a beloved addition to winter desserts. It’s a fundamental flavor in cookies, cakes, and custards, providing a comforting and familiar taste. Vanilla also enhances beverages like hot chocolate, adding a layer of richness and warmth.
Pepper: Unexpected Heat
While not traditionally associated with sweets, black pepper adds a surprising heat to certain holiday treats. In German Pfeffernüsse cookies, a pinch of black pepper balances the sweetness and highlights the other spices.
Black pepper enhances nutrient absorption and stimulates digestion, making it an excellent addition to festive meals. Sprinkle a bit of freshly ground pepper over soups or baked goods for a surprising health boost.
Incorporating Winter Spices into Your Festive Celebrations
You can use these spices in simmer pots or aromatherapy blends to enhance your home’s atmosphere and uplift your spirits. Create a moment of mindfulness by savoring the aromas and flavors of these spices during meals, helping you stay present and connected amidst the holiday rush.
Embracing these spices can elevate your holiday culinary creations. Consider making a simmer pot with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and citrus peels to fill your home with a festive aroma.
Experiment with adding cardamom to your coffee or baking gingerbread cookies with a touch of black pepper for a unique twist. These spices not only enhance flavors but also evoke the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
By thoughtfully incorporating these winter spices into your cooking and baking, you can create memorable and heartwarming experiences for yourself and your loved ones during the festive season and beyond.