Whole Spices

It is important to buy whole spices, and then grind them whenever you need them. I love using a pestle and mortar, but I understand that using a grinder saves time, so feel free to do that. Please do remember though, that Indian food is full of romance and vibrancy, and there really is something quite special about grinding spices in a pestle and mortar. I still use the one my Dad gave me for my tenth birthday.