crossword clue aromatic spice – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword puzzles! On this page, you'll find all possible solutions for the clue "aromatic spice", complete with explanations and categorized by letter count for quick and easy reference.
Solutions for "crossword clue aromatic spice" by Letter Count
5 Letters
CLOVE: A dried flower bud from the clove tree, known for its strong, pungent aroma and flavor, often used in baking and savory dishes.
6 Letters
NUTMEG: The fragrant seed of the nutmeg tree, typically grated and used as a spice, providing a warm, sweet, and nutty aroma to many dishes.
8 Letters
CINNAMON: A popular spice obtained from the inner bark of several tree species from the genus Cinnamomum, prized for its sweet, woody, and warm fragrance.
ALLSPICE: A dried berry with a flavor profile said to combine notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, hence its name, offering a rich aromatic complexity.
More About "aromatic spice"
Aromatic spices are key ingredients in cuisines worldwide, celebrated not just for their flavor but also for the captivating scents they impart. The term "aromatic" refers to the presence of volatile compounds (essential oils) that release a distinctive fragrance. These compounds are responsible for the unique bouquets of spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, which can transform a simple dish into an exotic culinary experience.
From the warm, comforting scent of cinnamon rolls to the pungent, invigorating aroma of mulled wine infused with cloves, aromatic spices play a significant role in sensory enjoyment. Beyond culinary uses, many aromatic spices have historical roots in traditional medicine and perfumery, further testament to their powerful olfactory properties. Understanding these qualities can often provide clues to their identity in a crossword context.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count: Always check the number of letters for the answer. Many common spices have distinct lengths (e.g., CLOVE is 5, NUTMEG is 6, CINNAMON is 8), which can narrow down possibilities.
- Think Beyond Food: While most spice clues relate to cooking, some might refer to their use in perfumery, traditional medicine, or even historical trade.
- Look for Synonyms or Descriptors: Clues like "pungent flavor," "tree bark," or "dried bud" often hint at specific spices. For "aromatic spice," think about the most fragrant ones you know.
- Cross-Reference with Other Clues: If you're stuck on an aromatic spice, try solving surrounding clues. Once you have a few letters, the full word might become apparent.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a spice considered 'aromatic'?
A spice is considered aromatic due to the presence of volatile compounds, or essential oils, within its structure. These compounds easily evaporate into the air, carrying distinct scents that are perceptible to our sense of smell. Examples include eugenol in cloves, cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon, and myristicin in nutmeg.
How can I easily find spice-related answers in crosswords?
When encountering a spice-related clue, consider the number of letters required. Common crossword spices like NUTMEG (6), CLOVE (5), CINNAMON (8), and ALLSPICE (8) are frequent answers. Also, think about the flavor profile (sweet, pungent, warm) or the part of the plant (bark, seed, bud) mentioned in the clue.
Are there different types of crossword clues for spices?
Yes, crossword clues for spices can vary. They might refer to the spice by its common name ('pie spice'), its origin ('Caribbean berry'), its botanical description ('tree bark spice'), or its characteristic aroma/flavor ('pungent cooking add-in'). Sometimes, they're clued indirectly through dishes they're used in, like 'mulled wine ingredient'.