Explore bold, authentic flavours right from your kitchen.
At LilBea Foods, we celebrate the world’s cultures through food—and that begins with spices. These powerful ingredients are more than just flavour enhancers—they represent history, geography, and tradition passed down through generations.
From Africa to the Caribbean and beyond, here are some must-have traditional spices and how you can use them to bring global flavours to your table.
1. Suya Spice (Nigeria)
What it is: A smoky, nutty blend made from ground peanuts, paprika, cayenne, ginger, and garlic.
How to use: Rub onto beef, chicken, or tofu before grilling. Best served with sliced onions and tomatoes—just like on the streets of Lagos.
2. Jerk Seasoning (Jamaica)
What it is: A bold, spicy mix featuring allspice, thyme, Scotch bonnet peppers, and garlic.
How to use: Marinate meats overnight (especially chicken or pork) and grill or oven-bake for true island flavour.
3. Berbere (Ethiopia)
What it is: A complex, fiery red blend of chili powder, fenugreek, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
How to use: Perfect for slow-cooked stews like Doro Wat or for seasoning lentils and roasted vegetables.
4. Garam Masala (India)
What it is: A warm blend of cardamom, cumin, coriander, cloves, and cinnamon.
How to use: Add at the end of cooking curries, soups, or rice dishes for an aromatic finish.
5. Turmeric (South Asia & Africa)
What it is: A golden-yellow spice with anti-inflammatory benefits and an earthy, slightly bitter flavour.
How to use: Use in curries, rice, or teas for colour and health.
6. Ras el Hanout (North Africa)
What it is: A luxurious Moroccan spice mix that may include over 20 spices like nutmeg, rose petals, and cumin.
How to use: Great for tagines, couscous, and grilled meats.
7. Curry Powder (Caribbean & Asian blends)
What it is: A regional mix of spices like turmeric, coriander, chili powder, and fenugreek.
How to use: Add to stews, rice, and meat dishes for that classic curried taste—every island and country has its own twist.
8. All-Purpose Seasoning (Caribbean)
What it is: A convenient mix of salt, onion powder, garlic, thyme, and pepper.
How to use: Ideal for seasoning meats, rice, and vegetables with just one sprinkle.
Tips for Using Traditional Spices:
- Toast before use: Gently toasting whole spices releases more aroma.
- Use fresh: Spices lose potency over time. Buy in small quantities and store in airtight containers.
- Don’t overdo it: Start small and adjust to taste—you can always add more.
Taste the World, One Spice at a Time
Whether you’re recreating a dish from your heritage or exploring something new, spices are the bridge between cultures and kitchens. At LilBea Foods, we bring you authentic spices from Africa, the Caribbean, Asia, and beyond—delivered to your door across the UK.
👉 Browse our spice collection today and let your cooking tell a global story.
