The Book of Spices

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Abstract: Information on the history, habitat, cultivation, trade, and culinary uses of 42 popular spices and herbs emphasizes their culturally important place in international cookery. Most spices are produced in the Asian and American tropics, whereas most herbs are supplied from the Mediterranean, North Africa and the Middle East. The place of each spice in the total world spice trade, past and present, is illustrated by economic, import and export data. Facts about native habitat and other agricultural information are also given. Although the many uses of spices historically extend beyond the kitchen, the important role of spices in food preparation is highlighted by the inclusion of recipes. Botanical and historical details and an illustration complete each entry.