12 Essential Spices for the Kitchen

There are many spices in the world. No matter how or what you cook, spices are one of the most crucial elements of your pantry. They’re a quick way to add a lot of flavor to whatever you have on hand, from boring chicken breast to vegetables.

Pepper

If you cook at home, you’ll find yourself using black pepper a lot, for almost every savory dish

Stuffed Peppers reciep

Stuffed Peppers

Red Pepper Flakes

This subtly spicy pantry addition is made from dried red chili peppers, adding a slight heat and depth of flavor to dishes ranging from hearty pasta sauces to Asian stir-fry. Available in both crushed and whole flake form, red pepper is a crucial ingredient for any spice lover to have on hand. Some recipes that make use of red pepper flakes are Asian Cucumber Salad.

Cucumber Salad recipe

Asian Cucumber Salad

 

Garlic Powder

Even if you choose to use fresh garlic on a regular basis, having garlic powder around can be beneficial too. It’s a great way to add some quick garlic flavor to a dish or you can use it to mix into your own spice blends

Recipes

orange chicken recipe

Orange Chicken

 

Coriander

Ground Coriander’s warm citrus notes are noticeable if they are not present. Moroccan-style seeds are the kind we use in our Ground Coriander, and it has such a versatile and amenable personality that it can be found in cuisines throughout the Mediterranean, Asia, Europe, and Latin America. We also provide Indian Coriander Seed, and this seed has a more up-front citrus flavor and deeper warm notes. While still a team player, Indian Coriander seed is much more present in a dish.

recipes

Chicken Tacos

kofta kabab recipe

Kofta Kebabs

Cinnamon

While Cinnamon is probably best known as an additive to sweet dishes or on your morning toast, this spice can be an excellent addition to certain savory dishes as well. Use it in very small doses in chili, tomato sauces and other products.

recipes

cinnamon roll cake

Christmas Tree Pastry

Oregano

Nothing says Italian quite like Oregano does. A little dried oregano will give your tomato sauce a real Italian vibe. It can also be a pungent add in for Greek and Mexican dishes.

recipes

Baked chicken parmesan meatballs recipe

Baked Chicken Meatballs with Parmesan Cheese

2. Greek salad

Cayenne Pepper

Another form of pepper, cayenne pepper has a definite kick. This spice is a great way to add heat to any dish. Whether you’re making your famous chili or buffalo wings, cayenne pepper lets you get the heat you desire.

Recipes

Chili Recipe

Chili

Cumin

Cumin has a smoky, earthy taste. You’ll find this flavor is great for many ethnic dishes including Indian, African and South American, Middle East. A gentle touch of cumin can add spice and flavor to unexpected dishes like eggs or grilled meats too.

recipes

Chicken Tacos

Nutmeg

Nutmeg works well in both sweet and savory dishes. It is a must for bechamel sauces and other cheese dishes. However, you’ll probably use it most often in sweet treats that contain cinnamon as well.

recipes

Oatmeal Banana Chocolate Chip Muffin recipe

Oatmeal Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins

Paprika

While fairly tame compared to other pepper-based spices, paprika adds warmth and earthiness to a dish. You’ll find that there are many different versions, some with a smokier or “hotter” flavor than others.

Recipes:

Deviled Eggs

2.Baked Chicken with Roasted Vegetables

Oven Roasted Chicken and Mashed potatoes

Turmeric

Turmeric is a real essential. It’s so versatile,” Gould said. It’s true—you might know the striking yellow-orange spice because of its use in Indian and Thai cooking, or in wellness food trends, but you can use it for a lot more. Turmeric is part of the ginger family and has a bright, floral, mild taste. Good-quality turmeric is a home kitchen gamechanger, whether you’re adding it to chicken and rice or chickpea soup.

It’s a spice that’s mainly used for color, yes, but it does have its own distinct taste. Another reason for its use is medicinal, antibacterial and ant inflammatory properties. Curcumin Boosts Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, Linked to Improved Brain Function and a Lower Risk of Brain Diseases. Should Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease

recipes

1.

Meatball Soup with Chickpeas and Potatoes recipe

Meatball Soup with Chickpeas and Potatoes

Ginger

Ginger root is used in cuisines from around the world; it can be candied, pickled, powdered or used fresh, either grated or sliced thin. Ginger is also believed to have medicinal properties. Small amounts of dried ginger are common in baked goods, while the fresh, pungent root is more at home in soups, stir-fries and teas. We like ginger in vinaigrettes, marinades and cocktails, such as this zingy apple-cider shrub, which is great for brunch or a fall party

recipes

1.

Kung Pao Chicken