Discover the vibrant world of spices beginning with the letter “N”! From the warm and aromatic to the bold and flavorful, these spices add a special touch to dishes around the globe. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or simply curious, exploring “N” spices opens up a world of taste and tradition. Get ready to spice up your kitchen with these unique and fascinating ingredients!
1. Nigella Seeds
Nigella seeds, also called black cumin or black onion seeds, come from a flowering plant native to South Asia and the Middle East. They have a slightly bitter, peppery flavor with hints of onion and oregano, adding depth to many dishes.
Calories per 20g: approximately 90. Nigella seeds are rich in antioxidants, essential oils, and compounds like thymoquinone, which may promote health and immune support.
How to Use It: Great in bread, curries, salads, and pickles. Add to spice blends or sprinkle on top of baked goods for extra flavor.
Diet Compatibility: Low-calorie, anti-inflammatory, aids digestion. Pair with lemon, yogurt, or honey for enhanced benefits.
2. Nora Chile Peppers, Dried
Nora peppers are bright red, dried chili peppers from Central America. They offer a mild to medium heat with fruity, smoky undertones, perfect for adding warmth to dishes.
Calories per 20g: about 50. Rich in capsaicin, antioxidants, and vitamins, they help boost metabolism and reduce inflammation.
How to Use It: Ideal for salsas, stews, marinades, or grinding into chili powder for seasoning.\n
Diet Compatibility: Low-calorie, spicy flavor helps in weight management and digestion. Mix with lime or garlic to make flavorful sauces.
3. Nutmeg, Ground
Ground nutmeg is made from the grated seed of the nutmeg tree, native to the Spice Islands of Indonesia. It has a warm, sweet, and slightly woody aroma, often used in desserts and beverages.
Calories per 20g: approximately 120. Nutmeg contains antioxidants, essential oils, and essential compounds like myristicin, which may support brain health and digestion.
How to Use It: Perfect in cakes, custards, eggnog, or sprinkled on coffee and fruits.
Diet Compatibility: Low in calories, supports digestion, and has anti-inflammatory properties. Pair with cinnamon or vanilla for desserts.
4. Nacional 100% Cacao Powder
This pure cacao powder originates from fine cacao beans, offering a rich chocolate flavor with slight bitterness. It’s valued for its rich history and deep taste.
Calories per 20g: about 50. Rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, and the compound theobromine, it promotes heart health and boosts mood.
How to Use It: Use in baking, smoothies, hot chocolate, or raw treats.
Diet Compatibility: Low in sugar, high in antioxidants. Mix with honey or vanilla for a healthy snack or beverage.
5. Nacional Cacao Nibs
Cacao nibs are small pieces of roasted cacao beans, offering a crunchy texture and intense chocolate flavor. Originally from Latin America, they add depth to recipes.
Calories per 20g: approximately 120. Packed with antioxidants, magnesium, and theobromine, supporting mood and energy.
How to Use It: Snack on raw, sprinkle over yogurt, oatmeal, or desserts, or mix into baking recipes.
Diet Compatibility: Low sugar, nutrient-dense, ideal for a healthy boost. Pair with berries or nuts.
6. New Mexico Chiles (Hatch), Dried
Hatch chiles from New Mexico are roasted, dried green chiles with a smoky, mildly spicy flavor. They are a cultural staple in Southwestern cuisine.
Calories per 20g: about 25. Rich in capsaicin and antioxidants, they can aid in metabolism and inflammation reduction.
How to Use It: Use in chili, sauces, stews, or rehydrate for stuffing and roasting.
Diet Compatibility: Low-calorie and spicy, they may promote circulation. Combine with garlic or lime for vibrant dishes.
7. Northwoods Mushroom Blend
This blend features dried forest mushrooms with earthy, savory flavors native to North America. It adds umami to a variety of dishes.
Calories per 20g: roughly 40. Contains antioxidants, polysaccharides, and bioactive compounds that support immune health.
How to Use It: Perfect in soups, stews, risottos, and broths. Rehydrate before cooking.
Diet Compatibility: Low in calories, promotes digestion, and boosts immunity. Pair with herbs like thyme or parsley.
8. Nacional Cacao Butter
Cacao butter is the fat extracted from cacao beans, used in chocolate and skincare products. It has a mild, chocolate aroma and smooth texture.
Calories per 20g: approximately 180. Rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, beneficial for skin health and energy.
How to Use It: Used in baking, making chocolates, or skincare recipes. Melt into beverages or creams.
Diet Compatibility: High in healthy fats, suitable for vegan recipes and skin treatments. Combine with honey or vanilla for desserts.
9. Nameko Mushrooms (Dried)
Nameko mushrooms are small, amber-colored fungi from Japan with a slippery texture and a mild, nutty flavor. Dried versions have concentrated taste.
Calories per 20g: about 30. Rich in polysaccharides and antioxidants that may support immunity and gut health.
How to Use It: Rehydrate and add to soups, hot pots, or stir-fries.
Diet Compatibility: Low in calories, aids digestion and immune support. Pair with soy sauce or ginger.
10. Nacional 100% De-Oiled Cacao Powder
This cacao powder has most of its fat removed, making it less calorie-dense. It retains intense chocolate flavor and antioxidants.
Calories per 20g: around 20. Packed with flavonoids and antioxidants that benefit the heart and brain.
How to Use It: Ideal for baking, smoothies, and healthy snacks.
Diet Compatibility: Low-fat, high in antioxidants. Mix with agave or berries for a nutritious treat.
Eleena Wills is a passionate health and wellness writer with over 5 years of experience in simplifying complex health topics for everyday readers. She holds a background in health communication and has contributed to multiple reputable wellness platforms. Eleena is committed to sharing science-backed tips on nutrition, mental well-being, fitness, and lifestyle habits that support long-term health. When she’s not writing, she’s experimenting with healthy recipes or practicing yoga.