Your favorite spices for Thai, Indian, and Chinese cooking

[maggiej]

I'm putting together a gift and would like to include interesting/uncommon dry spices for Thai, Indian, and Chinese cooking. The recipient is a confident and adventurous cook. What are your favorites? I'm in NY and have access to pretty much everything. Does anyone have any experience with Amchoor powder? Dried pomegranate seeds? Any recommended spice mixes at Kalustyans? Favorite dried peppers? Special salts? What do you actually USE for your cooking?