How to Say Spices in Spanish: Complete Translation Guide

How to Say Spices in Spanish: A Complete Translation Guide

When cooking Spanish dishes or traveling in Latin America, knowing the Spanish names for spices is essential. This guide provides direct translations for common spices, practical usage examples, and regional variations to help you navigate markets and recipes with confidence.

English	Spanish	Usage Example
Cinnamon	Canela	Canela en rama = Cinnamon stick
Paprika	Pimentón	Pimentón dulce = Sweet paprika
Cumin	Comino	Used in tacos al pastor
Nutmeg	Nuez Moscada	Often in holiday desserts
Cloves	Clavos de Olor	Great in mulled drinks
Saffron	Azafrán	Essential for paella
Black Pepper	Pimienta Negra	Moler pimienta = To grind pepper
Chili Powder	Polvo de Chile	Used in many Mexican sauces
Coriander	Coriandro	Seeds used in pickling
Oregano	Orégano	Dried vs fresh usage varies

Why This Knowledge Matters

Knowing Spanish spice terms prevents kitchen mistakes (like confusing pimentón and pimienta) and helps you shop confidently in Spanish-speaking markets. For example, asking for polvo de chile instead of pimienta ensures you get the right ingredient for authentic Mexican dishes.

Regional Variations to Note

• Cilantro vs. Coriandro: In most Spanish-speaking countries, cilantro refers to fresh coriander leaves, while coriandro means the seeds. In some regions like Mexico, cilantro is used for both.
• Chile vs. Chili: In Spanish, it's always chile (pronounced "chee-leh"), never "chili". The English spelling is a common mistake.
• Achiote: Known as "annatto" in English, this is widely used in Yucatán and Central America for its vibrant color and earthy flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Confusing pimentón (paprika) with pimienta (pepper)
• Using "chili" instead of "chile" when referring to the spice
• Assuming all "chili powder" is the same — in Mexico, polvo de chile is pure ground dried chiles, while in other regions it may be a blend

FAQ: Spanish Spice Terms

What is the Spanish word for "spice"?

The general Spanish word for "spice" is "especia" (singular) or "especias" (plural). In culinary contexts, "condimento" is also used for seasonings.

How do you say "spicy" in Spanish?

"Spicy" is "picante". For spice levels: "suave" (mild), "medio" (medium), and "picante" (hot). In Mexico, you might hear "chile" informally for spicy food.

What's the difference between "pimentón" and "pimienta"?

"Pimentón" is paprika (ground peppers), while "pimienta" is pepper (usually black pepper). "Pimienta negra" = black pepper, "pimentón dulce" = sweet paprika.