Spice Up Your Life: Must-Have Spices for Every Kitchen

By Paul Brown | Published on 2023-03-28

Spices have been a part of human history since ancient times. They add flavor, aroma, and color to our food and have been used for medicinal purposes as well. From cinnamon and garlic to turmeric and saffron, the world of spices is wide and diverse. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know which spices to have in your kitchen. That's why we've put together a list of must-have spices that will spice up your life and take your cooking to the next level. Get ready to take a culinary journey with us as we dive into the world of spices.

Commonly used spices in different cuisines

Spices are an incredibly versatile ingredient that are used across a variety of cuisines around the world. The flavors of spices can range from sweet and mild to hot and sharp, each with its own unique flavor profile. In Indian cuisine, spices like cumin, turmeric, and coriander are commonly used to add warmth and depth to dishes. These spices are often combined into a spice blend called garam masala, which is used in many curries and stews. In Middle Eastern cuisine, spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom are frequently used in savory dishes like stews and tagines. They can also be found in sweet dishes like baklava and Turkish delight. These spices add a warm, sweet aroma and flavor to dishes that is distinctively Middle Eastern. In Mexican cuisine, spices like cumin, chili powder, and oregano are staples in dishes like tacos and enchiladas. These spices add a smoky depth and a touch of heat to the flavors of the dishes. The combination of these spices with ingredients like fresh cilantro and lime juice create a unique flavor profile that is beloved by many.

Benefits of cooking with spices

Cooking with spices is not only about enhancing the flavor of your meals, but it also has numerous health benefits. Spices are known for their medicinal, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, making them an essential ingredient in any diet. Spices can help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system, making them ideal for maintaining overall health. For instance, turmeric contains curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory effects and is said to help with arthritis, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. Similarly, ginger has been known to alleviate nausea, aid the digestion process, and reduce muscle pain. Adding spices can also help reduce salt and sugar intake in the meals. The flavor profile of spices easily replaces excess salt, sugar, and fat, which are commonly used to make food more palatable. Cooking with spices can make your meals healthier, while still being full of flavor, giving you the best of both worlds.

How to store spices properly

Storing spices properly is key to ensuring that your spices remain fresh and flavorful for as long as possible. One of the essential things to keep in mind when storing spices is to store them in a dry, cool place, away from heat and moisture. Exposure to heat, light, and air can cause the spices to lose their flavor and even spoil. Another important factor to consider while storing spices is to keep them in airtight containers. Air can cause the spices to lose their flavors and aroma faster, so storing them in airtight containers can help prevent this. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids are an excellent choice for this purpose. You can also opt for ceramic containers or those made of stainless steel. If storage space is a concern, you can always opt for a magnetic spice organizer. These organizers can be mounted on the wall or inside a cabinet, making it easy to store and access your spices while saving space in your kitchen. With the right storage techniques, you can keep your spices fresh and flavorful for a long time and add a burst of flavor to your dishes.

Uncommon spices to try in the kitchen

For a lot of us, the spice rack is generally limited to the familiar flavors of black pepper, turmeric, cumin, and cinnamon. However, there is a whole world of fascinating spices out there waiting to be explored. A good way to add zest to your dishes is by experimenting with some of the less common spices. One of my favorites is Sumac. This reddish-purple powder is derived from the dried berries of the sumac plant, and it's widely used in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and North African cuisines. Astringent, slightly sour, and salty, Sumac offers a mouth-watering taste that's lovely in chicken, meat, or vegetable dishes, marinades and dressings, and salads. Another great spice to try out is Saffron. This cinnamon-colored spice is produced from the stigma of crocus flowers, it's one of the most expensive spices in the world (but a little goes a long way). Intensely aromatic and with a distinct flavor, saffron is ideal for savoury dishes like Paella, seafood sauces, and risotto, and also in sweet dishes like cakes and biscuits for an exotic twist.

Using spices in beverages and desserts.

Using spices in beverages and desserts can add a wonderful depth of flavor that elevates the dish to the next level. One popular way to use spices in beverages is by adding cinnamon to coffee or hot chocolate. Just a pinch of cinnamon can add a warm, comforting flavor that pairs perfectly with the bitterness of coffee or the sweetness of hot chocolate. Nutmeg is another spice that is commonly used in beverages such as eggnog or spiced cider. A sprinkle of nutmeg can add a distinct nutty and slightly sweet flavor, making the beverage more complex and interesting. Spices can also be used to enhance the flavor of desserts. For example, adding a touch of cardamom to a creamy vanilla ice cream can add a spicy twist that is unexpected and delicious. Cinnamon has also been a popular spice in desserts for centuries. Its warm and comforting taste pairs perfectly with sugar, making it an ideal spice for pies, cakes, and cookies. Even savory desserts like carrot cake benefit from the addition of cinnamon, which compliments the other spices like ginger and nutmeg. Overall, using spices in beverages and desserts is a great way to add more excitement and interest to your cooking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, spices are an essential part of any kitchen, offering a vast array of flavors and health benefits. By learning about and experimenting with different spices, you can add a new dimension to your cooking, making even the simplest dish into a culinary masterpiece. Whether you are a beginner cook or a seasoned professional in the kitchen, incorporating the must-have spices we've discussed today will surely elevate your dishes to the next level. So why not experiment with some new spices, and spice up your life?