Some like it hot
Millan Shah of spice importer Virani says that many shop-bought spice powders have been heat-treated to render them macrobiologically safe and, "flavours can be subtly and detrimentally affected". Spices, stored simply, last longer, particularly when kept in a glass jar in cool, dry conditions.
Most of the large dry-store suppliers hold good stocks of regular spices, but for the enthusiast nothing beats a trip to the Western International market near Southall, west London, where there are spices by the lorry-load and plenty of advice on hand. The Curry Club (PO Box 7, Haslemere GU27 1EP) also sells a large range of spices by mail order.
An excellent innovation in the storing and preparing of fresh spices is the Crushgrind, a ceramic spice mill with a glass compartment for storing a selection of spices. Ceramic has been found to be harder-wearing than the more conventional steel and the device allows for a controlled, fine grind.
British Pepper & Spice produces a wide range of spices under its Millstone brand. They come in colour-coded PET packs and have a dual-action lid for sprinkling or spooning.
