While black pepper is called the spice king, cardamom takes the title of the spice queen, partly because of the importance it has held in the spice trade, but also because it is the second most expensive spice in weight after saffron. Cardamom is expensive because it grows in remote places.
Coriander has a distinct, sweet aromatic flavour and a fine spicy scent prominent in its dried seeds. Coriander is a traditionally common ingredient in diverse Asian and Middle Eastern dishes, but has now made its way to be used both dried and fresh, in most cuisines.
Coriander can be used whole or crushed in a mortar, and mixed with other spices like cumin, cinnamon, pepper and fresh herbs.
Hot, brown mustard seeds that can be used whole or crushed
Brown mustard seeds have a sharp aromatic flavour that develops when the seeds are crushed and mixed with water, vinegar or other liquids. Coarsely crushed brown and yellow mustard seeds mixed in some water form the base for the classic Danish fish mustard marinade.