Spices add that extra bit of flavour to a meal! But what seasonings do Germans use?

With every trip to foreign countries, we also enter new culinary terrain and discover spices that are typically used in traditional dishes of that country. However, global trade also makes it possible for us to embark on a culinary journey in our kitchens at home. But what are the most popular spice imports and where do they come from?

Spoon full of pepper

Tonnes and tonnes of spices, including ginger, pepper and cinnamon, make their way to Germany every year. The following charts provide an overview of the most popular spices imported into Germany, including their respective country of origin.

Most imported spices chart

Ginger is by far the most imported spice in Germany, with around 35,700 tons annually. It is closely followed by pepper and, with around 17,000 and 12,000 tons respectively, bell pepper and star anise with caraway. Coriander and cinnamon round off the list with around 5,000 tons each annually.

Ginger import chart
Ginger, Germany's favourite, is mainly imported from China.
Bell pepper import chart
Did you know that bell pepper seasoning mostly comes from China?
Coriander import chart
You either love it or hate it - coriander. It is used a lot in Asian cuisine and is mostly imported to Germany from Russia.
Pepper import chart
Almost fifty percent of our pepper actually comes from Brazil - who would have thought?
Star Anise Chart
One fifth of imported anise and caraway comes from Egypt.
Cinnamon import chart
Cinnamon, about forty percent of which is imported from Madagascar, is a popular ingredient in desserts and hot drinks.

The diversity of spices

From savoury and spicy to aromatic and herbal – explore the diversity of spices and their importance in various national cuisines.

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Further articles