Winter in Melbourne calls for food that warms from the inside out. As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to rediscover the power of spice. At Gertrude Grocer, we stock a carefully curated collection of spices sourced from around the world — from the aromatic markets of Morocco to the sun-soaked fields of southern Italy.
Whether you’re crafting a slow-cooked stew, roasting seasonal vegetables, or simmering a rich soup, the right blend of spices can elevate your cooking into something truly memorable.
A World of Flavour on Our Shelves
Our global spice collection is chosen with both the home cook and the passionate foodie in mind. We focus on high-quality, fresh, and potent spices that deliver exceptional flavour with just a pinch.
Here are some of our favourite winter essentials — and how to use them.
Smoked Paprika (Spain)
Deep, smoky and slightly sweet, smoked paprika adds instant depth to hearty winter dishes. It works beautifully in:
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Roasted sweet potato wedges
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Lentil and chorizo stew
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Tomato-based soups and sauces
Try it in a paprika-roasted pumpkin and white bean salad, finished with fresh herbs and lemon zest.
Ras el Hanout (North Africa)
A complex blend of warming spices like cumin, coriander, cinnamon and cardamom, Ras el Hanout is a winter standout. Use it to:
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Rub onto lamb before roasting
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Season roasted cauliflower or carrots
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Add flavour to couscous or grain bowls
This blend pairs beautifully with winter vegetables and rich proteins, offering a fragrant and exotic twist.
Turmeric (India)
Golden and earthy, turmeric is well-known for its anti-inflammatory benefits. In winter, it adds both colour and warmth to dishes like:
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Coconut and turmeric lentil soup
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Spiced vegetable curry
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Turmeric scrambled eggs
For a gentle immune-boosting drink, try simmering turmeric with milk, honey and black pepper to make a golden latte.
Fennel Seeds (Italy)
Fennel seeds offer a subtle sweetness and liquorice-like aroma. They shine in:
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Slow-cooked pork or sausages
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Roasted Brussels sprouts or cabbage
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Italian-style tomato sauces
Lightly toast them before using to bring out their oils and intensify flavour.
Star Anise (China)
Beautifully fragrant and subtly sweet, star anise adds depth to broths and braises. Use it sparingly in:
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Pho-inspired beef broth
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Chinese-style soy braised chicken
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Poached pears or mulled fruit desserts
It also pairs well with cinnamon and cloves in sweet and savoury dishes alike.
Smokey Joes Spice Rubs (Australia)
For those who love full flavour without fuss, our range of Smokey Joes spice rubs are a winter cooking essential. These locally blended rubs are bold, versatile, and remove the guesswork from spice layering.
Perfect for:
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Roast chicken or root vegetables
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Slow-cooked ribs
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Vegan tray bakes
Keep one on hand and you’ll always have a flavour shortcut ready to go.
Simple Recipe: Winter Spiced Vegetable Tray Bake
A great way to use up whatever is in the fridge — and make your home smell incredible.
Ingredients
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Carrots, parsnips, beetroot, and sweet potato
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Olive oil
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1 tsp Ras el Hanout or Smokey Joes Moroccan rub
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Sea salt
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Optional: a drizzle of honey or pomegranate molasses
Method
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Preheat oven to 200°C.
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Toss chopped vegetables with olive oil, spice and salt.
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Roast for 40 minutes or until golden and tender.
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Serve warm with tahini dressing or yoghurt and herbs.
Everything You Need for Warming Winter Meals
At Gertrude Grocer, our spice collection is just the beginning. Pair your blends with:
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Fresh seasonal vegetables
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Imported legumes and grains
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Local oils, sauces and condiments
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Artisan cheeses and accompaniments
Each product is selected for quality, origin and flavour — because we know that even a simple home-cooked meal can be extraordinary with the right ingredients.
Visit Us or Click & Collect
You’ll find our full spice range and premium pantry selection in-store at:
Kensington
Carlton
Or shop online and choose Click & Collect for a quick and easy pickup. We’re here to help you cook better and eat beautifully — even in the depths of winter.