This book includes over 100 classic and contemporary recipes from around the world, each with easy-to-follow instructions and a glorious picture of the finished dish. It features a photographic directory of spices in all their guises, as well as many traditional spice mixtures, including curry powders, masalas, spice pastes, sweet spice mixtures and barbecue spices. Every entry has a detailed description of the spice's aroma, taste and appearance, and all its medicinal, domestic and culinary uses. It comes with step-by-step preparation and cooking techniques, as well as essential information on suitable storage containers and equipment. Exotic, aromatic and exciting, spices play a huge part in almost every cuisine. This encyclopedia is not only a practical cookbook but an expert reference guide. Over 50 spices are shown as whole, ground, dried or fresh, and their aroma, culinary and medicinal uses are listed. In addition, there are illustrated recipes for more than 35 spice blends, from Kashmiri Masala to Apple Pie Spice. Recipes range from soups and appetizers through beef, lamb and pork to preserves and chutneys. There are also ideas for making scented gifts and spice decorations, and preparing aromatic oils, vinegars and a multitude of drinks. This collection will be invaluable to any cook.