Bengali cuisine is known for its rich and diverse use of various spices and herbs. These ingredients not only add flavor and aroma to the dishes, but also have significant health benefits. Some popular spices used in Bengali cooking include cumin, coriander, turmeric, mustard, and fenugreek. These spices are often used in powder form or as whole seeds in dishes such as curries, stews, and biryanis.

Bengali cuisine also incorporates a variety of herbs like curry leaves, bay leaves, and cilantro. These herbs not only enhance the taste of the dishes, but also have medicinal properties. For instance, curry leaves are known to aid digestion and bay leaves have anti-inflammatory properties.

Bengali spices and herbs are not only essential for the unique flavor of the cuisine, but also reflect the cultural heritage and history of the region. Their presence in the dishes makes Bengali cuisine truly distinctive and has made it one of the most loved and sought after cuisines in the world.