winter ingredients
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Winter Wellness Starts Here: Follow the Spice Trail with Woop

 

There’s something about winter that calls for richer flavours, deeper comfort, and a little extra care - not just in what we eat, but how we feel. This season at Woop, we’re drawing inspiration from the ancient Spice Trail and the time-honoured traditions of Indian cooking to craft meals that warm, nourish, and restore. 


So, what is the spice trail?


The Spice Trail was one of the world’s first global trade routes, stretching from India through Asia, the Middle East and into Europe. Spices like turmeric, cardamom and black pepper made their way across continents - prized not only for their bold flavours and beautiful aromas, but also for their believed restorative properties.

 

Today, these same spices are at the heart of Indian cuisine - each one carrying stories of balance, tradition and wellness. This winter, we’re bringing them to your dinner table in dishes that feel both grounding and exciting.


UPCOMING INDIAN INSPIRED RECIPES


GINGER CHICKEN WITH COCONUT GRAVY & ROASTED CASHEWS

Inspired by Kerala, South India

This dish wraps you in warmth. Coconut cream creates a smooth, mellow base, while fresh ginger adds subtle heat - a combo traditionally used in Southern India for comfort and balance. Roasted cashews give it a satisfying crunch, and the whole dish feels like a nourishing hug on a cold evening. 


STICKY CHILLI APRICOT PANEER WITH TURMERIC RICE

Fusion of North Indian & Indo-Chinese 

A bold, modern twist - golden turmeric rice, sticky apricot-glazed paneer, and roasted cashews for texture. The turmeric brings depth and glow, while chilli adds a gentle kick. 


The Woop Spice Rack: What’s Inside This Season?

Spices are more than just flavour - they’re part of the wellness story behind every dish. Here's a peek at what’s featured in your winter Woop box:


 

TURMERIC


Turmeric, often called "liquid gold", has been used in Indian kitchens for over 4,000 years. It gives dishes that beautiful golden colour, and is believed to support the immune system.

 

TIP: Pair turmeric with black pepper to unlock its full potential — the pepper helps the body absorb turmeric, and together they bring depth and warmth to winter dishes.

 

 

CINNAMON


In Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine, cinnamon is considered a warming spice — believed to help support circulation and balance the body during colder months. That’s why it features so often in winter teas, tonics, and broths.

 

 

CARDAMOM

Fragrant and citrusy, this green pod is used in curries, teas and sweets. Known for its calming, digestive qualities.


COME HOME TO CALM, WITH SOMETHING BOLD


Woop's Winter Wellness menu is here to take the edge off busy days - and bring something warm, beautiful and considered to your evenings. Each dish arrives with pre-prepped ingredients, a chef-crafted sauce, and a simple step-by-step card to follow. So you can serve something delicious and restorative, without breaking stride.


nz food box winter producenz food box winter produce

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