Spices, which include, among others, cinnamon, anise, cloves, nutmeg and ginger, give the dishes and drinks a distinctive taste. They are warming and relaxing, whereas their strong oriental aroma stimulates the senses. They blend well with sweet and tart fruit – both fresh and dried – and therefore they are a popular ingredient in compotes, cider and mulled wine with orange. Along with nuts and dried fruit, spices are associated primarily with Christmas.
