Given that it is winter in the northern hemisphere now, it seems appropriate to take a look at herbs and spices. After all, these have an intrinsic link with food, particularly at this time of the year. Salt was used to preserve meats so they could be eaten through the harsh winter, while garlic provides warmth in the cold months and cinnamon has a history with Christmas recipes dating back centuries. So it is in this spirit that we track down the world’s most prized examples of herbs, spice and seasonings.