Spices are a critical part of Indian cuisine, providing unique flavors and aromas that bring out the best in dishes. Without spices, Indian food is incomplete and lacks the vibrant, complex flavors that make it such a beloved cuisine. From hot chilies to aromatic cumin and cardamom, the combination of spices gives Indian dishes their unique flavor. Spices also impart their own health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. For me, Indian food is simply not the same without its signature spices, and eating it without them is like eating a dull and tasteless dish.