Seasonal Guide to Buying Indian Spices: Best Times for Quality and Value

For Australian home cooks and spice enthusiasts, finding and buying quality Indian spices requires understanding both traditional Indian harvest seasons and Australian market dynamics. While many spices are imported year-round, knowing when to buy can help you get the best quality and value, whether you're shopping in Melbourne's Indian districts, Sydney's western suburbs, or through online retailers, like us.

Summer Season: December to February

Australian summer overlaps with the arrival of several new spice harvests from India, making it an excellent time for purchases.

Green Cardamom

Green cardamom typically arrives in Australian markets during our summer months. Look for bright green pods that feel slightly oily – the most high-quality cardamom in Australia comes from Kerala's winter harvest. Major Indian grocery stores in areas like Harris Park in Sydney or Dandenong in Melbourne often stock fresh shipments during this time.

Black Pepper

Summer is ideal for buying black pepper in Australia, as new harvests from India and Sri Lanka arrive at our ports. Quality Malabar or Tellicherry peppercorns should be uniformly black or dark brown. Many Australian Indian grocers receive fresh stock during this period, often at competitive prices.

Saffron

While expensive year-round in Australia, summer often sees competitive pricing as retailers adjust stock before new shipments. When buying saffron in Australian stores or online, expect to pay $30-50 for a quality gram. Look for Category 1 saffron with deep red threads.

Autumn: March to May

Autumn marks a significant time for spice buying in Australia, as many retailers prepare for the cooler months when spice consumption typically increases.

Turmeric

Fresh turmeric harvests arrive in Australian markets during autumn. Look for bright yellow-orange powder readily available in Indian grocery stores across Brisbane, Perth, and other major cities. For the freshest turmeric, check stores in areas with large Indian communities like Parramatta or Box Hill.

Coriander Seeds

Many Australian retailers receive new coriander seed stock during autumn. Quality seeds should be light brown and aromatic. Bulk buying during this season can be economical, especially from wholesalers in metropolitan areas.

Cumin Seeds

Autumn is an excellent time to stock up on cumin in Australia, as prices often dip before winter demand increases. Look for whole seeds rather than powder for better value and longevity.

Winter: June to August

Australian winter is perfect for buying warming spices, with many retailers offering specials during this high-demand period.

Cinnamon and Cassia

Winter sees fresh cinnamon stocks in Australian markets. True Ceylon cinnamon, while pricier, is worth the investment. Look for it in specialty spice shops or premium Indian grocery stores in major cities. Prices typically range from $15-25 for quality Ceylon cinnamon sticks.

Cloves

Winter is the peak season for clove sales in Australia. Buy whole cloves rather than powder – they're readily available in most Australian Indian grocery stores.

Garam Masala Ingredients

Winter is ideal for buying the whole spices needed for garam masala (cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, etc.). Many Australian retailers offer bundle deals during this season.

Read more: How to Make Your Own Garam Masala

Spring: September to November

Spring brings opportunities for restocking your spice cabinet before summer cooking begins.

Fenugreek Seeds

Spring is excellent for buying fenugreek in Australia, as new stocks typically arrive before summer. Major Indian grocers in areas like Westmead (Sydney) or Werribee (Melbourne) often have competitive prices during this season.

Mustard Seeds

Both black and yellow mustard seeds are well-priced during spring. Look for bulk deals at Indian grocery stores in major shopping districts.

Where to Buy in Australia

1. Specialised Indian Grocery Stores

• Major cities: Harris Park (Sydney), Dandenong (Melbourne), Sunnybank (Brisbane)
• Usually offer the best variety and competitive prices
• Often import directly from Indian suppliers

2. Online Australian Retailers

• True Indian Spices, specialising in Indian spices (Australia-wide shipping)
• Herbies Spices 
• Sydney Spice Markets (bulk options available)
• Various Indian grocery stores with online presence

3. Major Markets

• Adelaide Central Market
• Queen Victoria Market (Melbourne)
• Flemington Markets (Sydney)
• Often have specialised spice vendors

Remember that while these guidelines focus on seasonal buying, quality Indian spices are available year-round in Australia's well-established Indian grocery network.

Read more: 10 Must-Have Indian Spices For Your Kitchen