The spice plantations of Kerala have a history dating back to 12th century AD. The plantations are mostly spread across North and central Kerala concentrating on the high ranges which are part of the Western Ghats in the districts of Iddukki, and Wayanad. The aromatic flavors of the spices of Kerala have always been an attraction for millions who have visited the spice routes of Kerala. Centuries ago the foreign invaders were also attracted to this land for the same reason and at last resulted in invading the land for trade interests in spices. The spice products from Kerala are supreme in quality, which is why the land is spice traders final destination. The old port town of Muzuris was a major trading point for the spices and the spices were harvested processed and brought down to the port for trade. It is believed that the Chinese, Arab and Roman traders used to be frequent visitors at Muzuris.
Spices from Kerala include Cardamom, pepper, nutmeg, coffee, and turmeric. The strong flavors, medicinal and nutritional value have made the spices a prime ingredient as well as a condiment in the native cuisine as well as many cuisines around the world. The spices play a major role in the development and formation of medicines for the native medicine line of Ayurveda. Cardamom and pepper are the major plantations and is spread over different parts of the high ranges at the same time spices like the nutmeg is spread over the plains on the banks of rivers.
Cardamom
It is a pale green colored seed shaped spice variety which develops near to the root of the plant close to the earth with small black granules inside. Cardamom is considered to be the queen of spices. Shade is a very major requirement for cardamom plant growth and sustainability. It is a condiment and is a common ingredient in most native cuisines. The medicinal value is numerous and a prominent component in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine.
Pepper
Pepper needs no introduction and is known around the world as a common seasoning and is commonly found in most cruet set in almost all restaurants in the world. Kerala pepper was referred to as “Black Gold” by Vasco da Gama, who was attracted to the land for his interest to trade pepper. Even in the ancient era, pepper was a worthy trade good, and was lucrative enough. Scripts about pepper from India are found in almost all ancient civilizations. For example Pepper from India was used for mummification in Egypt. Pepper farming is found in most household in Villages of Kerala for household use. The creeper plant grows in all climate and is harvested, sun dried and sold. This condiment is used in wine making and is used in almost all cuisines in the world. The spice is dark green in color and becomes black when dried.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is a sphere shaped, pale yellow spice which hangs like a fruit on the tree. It is grown in fertile plains of Kerala on the banks of rivers. It is a common tree found in central Kerala. The shell is hard enough to protect the nutmeg inside the yellow fruit. The egg shaped black seed is covered with a red colored thread like substance called mace. The black seed and the red lacy aril are the most important content in the fruit. The shell, seed and the mace are used for different purposes. The mace is dried and used as a condiment as well as a flavoring agent. The shell is consumed locally and is used for pickling and wine making. The mace and the seed contain high nutritional and medicinal value and are used for different culinary purposes.