Spices: We Start from the Cumin and at the top Cinnamon

“Spices for me are the ladies of the kitchen. The aristocratic ladies who do not easily accept people close to them who do not belong to their circle “says in the introduction of her book Maria Ekmektsioglou, Politisa magirissa.

Food is not just “fuel”, it is travel. Every bite must have the power to amaze, to “pull” you from today and to “connect” you with yesterday. It is a journey of tastes, memories and nostalgia. In this journey the condiments appear, or rather play the leading role.

Every kind of spice, every shade and aroma masterfully enriches our gastronomic creations and contributes to the uniqueness of each recipe. After all, what would food be without it? Immaculate, indifferent and uniform.

Apart from the delectable taste they offer, however, spices also contribute to good health, as they have multiple benefits for the body. All of them are rich in antioxidants, slowing down the aging process, but each of them “writes its own story”.

Cumin

Cumin is one of the most distinctive spices, with a bold, oriental flavor that adds a unique aroma to any dish, especially when paired with meats. Beyond its strong taste, it is rich in iron and contains natural antioxidants. It has been linked to improved digestion and studied for potential positive effects on blood sugar and cholesterol regulation. While further research is needed to confirm all its benefits, cumin remains a valuable addition to the kitchen, both for its flavor and its nutritional qualities.

Ginger

Ginger is known for its distinctive flavor and aroma and has traditionally been used to soothe the stomach and ease feelings of nausea. It is often associated with a sense of relief and well-being and has also been studied for its potential benefits in supporting overall balance in the body.

Clove

At its mention, images of Sunday family tables come to mind, with slow-cooked beef filling the neighborhood with its aroma. Clove is one of those spices that works equally well in savory and sweet recipes — from traditional stews to carob breadsticks and Dinkel cookies with orange from Ntourountous Bakery. Thanks to its intense aroma and unique flavor, it has traditionally been associated with qualities that evoke warmth and a sense of well-being.

Kozani saffron

In recent years, it has gained an increasingly prominent place in our recipes and is considered one of the most valuable spices. Rich in antioxidants, it has been studied for potential beneficial effects on memory and cognitive function, making it particularly interesting as part of a balanced diet.

Oregano

What could be more classic and beloved than oregano? It enhances everything — from salads and soups to pies — instantly elevating every dish. Here in Crete, we have been cultivating it traditionally for years, enjoying top-quality oregano with an almost enchanting aroma. It is a good source of antioxidants and has been studied for its potential antibacterial properties. Discover the handmade traditional Ntourountous Bakery products with oregano that are sure to delight you. We suggest three options.

Turmeric

Turmeric, with its golden color, stands out for the curcumin it contains, which gives it its unique intensity. It has been studied for its potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which is why many consider it one of the most fascinating spices. And if you’ve never imagined it in a crunchy, savory snack — we made it happen for you! Our toasted bread with turmeric & mustard, free from preservatives, is waiting for you to try it.

Paprika

Sweet, smoked, or spicy? Whichever you choose, paprika pairs beautifully with meat and savory snacks. We love bold flavors that bring an exotic touch to the palate, that’s why we recommend our toasted bread with tomato & paprika. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re definitely missing out on a delicious surprise! On top of that, paprika contains vitamins (A, E, B6) and iron, which contribute to a balanced diet.

Anise

Anise is an aromatic plant with a long tradition in the Mediterranean diet. It has been linked to supporting digestion and relieving bloating, while also containing natural compounds with antioxidant properties. Enjoy its unique flavor in the most delightful way, in almond & anise cookies from Ntourountous Bakery.

Cocoa

Loved by both young and old, cocoa is the base for delightful desserts and delicious chocolate drinks, but it’s not just about indulgence, it’s about health too! Cocoa is rich in flavonoids and antioxidants, which have been linked to benefits for cardiovascular health as well as the regulation of blood pressure and cholesterol. Not bad at all!

Cinnamon

I saved it for last, not because it falls short, but because it is considered the queen of spices. Its wonderful aroma takes center stage in countless recipes, both sweet and savory. It brings notes of warmth and balance, and in baked goods in particular, it elevates both taste and fragrance — as in the honey & walnuts cookies from Ntourountous Bakery. It has been studied for potential positive effects on blood sugar regulation and is traditionally regarded as beneficial for digestion. It’s no coincidence that in many cultures it has also been linked to aphrodisiac recipes.

Of course, the spices that are worth including in our diet are not the only ones! There are dozens of spices, the more we can include in our daily diet, the more we will gain. To close, I suggest you choose your spices in small quantities and in bulk form; it is better to avoid supermarkets. Travel with the perfumes that will release, as soon as you put them in the mortar to break them and let the house musk with tradition, authenticity and warmth!