So what kind of food blog would this be without including something about spices? Not much of one, that's for sure. Some may argue that this isn't much of a blog anyway but hey, they are entitled to their opinion. Now when we talk about spices, everyone has their favorites and the go-to spices that they use on a regular basis. I searched on the internet for what people considered to be their essential spices. You know, the spices that you simply cannot due without and that everyone should have in their cabinet or spice rack. While there is no consensus, everyone has different tastes after all, I did find some interesting articles on the subject. After the break, I will share one of them that lists what the author believes to be the essential spices you should have on hand at all times.
Essential Spices for Your Spice Rack
Katie Lee Joel, chef and author of the cookbook The Comfort Table, divulges the essential kitchen spices to stock in your spice rack.
Thyme - One of the most versatile herbs, thyme can be used in everything from salad dressings to soups and stocks; just a small pinch can jump-start your dish.
Coriander - When you’re whipping up your best chili or stir-fry, add this spice to the mix for a fresh cilantro-infused taste.
Basil - If you have a craving for Thai, this spice will give an exotic flavor to your dish.
Chinese 5 Spice - This spice mixture varies, but it’s usually a combination of fennel, anise, ginger, licorice root, cinnamon, and cloves. Works great in stir-fry and is perfect to sprinkle on popcorn for a midnight snack.
Onion Powder - One of the most essential kitchen spices, its no-fail flavor will be your secret ingredient when making hamburgers. Add 1/2 teaspoon of the powder to ground beef.
Old Bay Seasoning - Straight from the sizzling South, this spice is great for French fries or broiled fish.
Chili Powder - Season ground beef with chili powder when making Mexican food. Spicy alert: Add a little bit at a time.
Cumin Seeds - Taste them in Middle Eastern and Mexican dishes. Add cumin powder and a drizzle of olive oil to spike up hummus.
Dry Mustard - Put a pinch of dry mustard into vinaigrettes or mix it with paprika to season beef. It packs a little bit of heat, so use it sparingly.
Oregano - Widely present in Mediterranean cooking, use oregano in tomato sauces and Greek salads with olives, tomatoes, and feta cheese.
Bay Leaves - Create a base flavor in soups, stocks, and savory dishes by using by leaves. Add one when sautéing onions too. Never leave them in when serving.
Paprika - It has a subtle smoky flavor, which is great for seasoning meats and chicken before searing or grilling and gives meat a beautiful color when cooked.
Rosemary - Pair rosemary and garlic to create a flavorful leg of lamb. For a side dish, combine potatoes, olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven.
Red Pepper Flakes - Get the great taste of New York pizza by sprinkling red pepper flakes on your slice.
Garlic Powder - Unlike fresh garlic, powder will not burn. Season flour with garlic powder for fried chicken.
Like I said, that's just one article on what should be the essential spices in you spice rack. Regardless of what your opinion is about what are the essential spices, when you are running low, head over to My Spice Sage to restock your supply. They have a great selection and wonderful prices. If you know a better resource for spices and herbs, please let me know by leaving a comment.
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