The world is full of opportunity to have so many unique and exciting experiences. We branch out and try new activities, travel to new places, explore the intricacies of the natural world around us. We continue to learn throughout our lives. We grow with every adventure.
The world is also full of delicious flavor! This post will explore some of my favorite spices. After expanding my cooking genres to include foods from many different cultures, I have discovered that I truly LOVE SPICES! They are so delicious and healthy. The combinations are limitless. It was SO hard to pick my top 5! Get ready to embark on a flavor adventure!
1 – Cumin
Cumin is such a staple for me! You can buy ground or whole cumin seed. If you buy the seeds whole, you can toast them a bit before grinding to enhance flavor. Cumin aids in digestion when cooked into your recipes. It is delicious in Mexican and Indian dishes, and it is used in Middle Eastern and North African cooking. Cumin goes well in chilis, Indian curries, couscous, tacos, blackening seasoning, Mayan dishes, Cajun food and so much more. I use a lot of cumin in my recipe for the Best Green Chili Slow Cooker Stew. I always add a bit to my guacamole, and the kids love it!
2 – Turmeric
This NEEDS to be in your spice cabinet! Turmeric is available whole or ground. I always buy it fresh ground. Turmeric is considered an anti-inflammatory spice, especially when combined with fresh ground black pepper for better absorption by the body. It is used frequently in Indian and Middle Eastern foods, and is sometimes a substitute for saffron. Turmeric goes well in curries, lentil dishes, potato dishes, and with fish and poultry. I use it regularly in my Mediterranean Scallops with Turmeric Creamed Spinach recipe. The Turmeric Creamed Spinach goes well with many main dishes! I also put about a 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric in my smoothies each morning.
3 – Garlic
I always have garlic in various versions. Garlic comes in powder form, granulated, minced, and in whole bulbs. I’m one who loves garlic, and I tend to increase the amount in any recipe that comes my way. Garlic is considered as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, and throughout history it has been reportedly used for it’s medicinal properties. Garlic goes well with just about any variety of food, including Italian, Spanish, Indian, Thai, Chinese, Mexican, Mediterranean, Greek, American, and so much more! It is an important part of my Best Carnitas Slow Cooker Tacos recipe. I use more garlic than any other spice in my cabinet!
4 – Cinnamon
There are many delicious varieties of cinnamon out there! It comes in stick form and ground powder form. I typically keep both sticks and powder available in my spice rack. It is also known for medicinal purposes, such as antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Ceylon cinnamon is considered to be “true” cinnamon and can be found in specialty spice stores. Cinnamon is also more versatile in cooking than you may think! It is known to be used in many different cultures, including Mexican, Indian, Mediterranean, Greek, Middle Eastern, British, African, Caribbean, and South American. Cinnamon goes well with poultry, pork, lamb, hot chocolate, curries and stews, as well as in sweet treats like cakes and cookies. I use cinnamon every day in my morning smoothies, along with the turmeric. It is also an important part of my Favorite Jerk Chicken recipe.
5 – Ginger
Another favorite! Ginger can be found as the whole fresh root, ground powder, cracked, and crystallized. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties, and for assisting with indigestion. Ginger is used in many recipes, including Middle Eastern, North African, African, Caribbean, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Jamaican, Thailand, and Indian food. It goes well in curries, chutneys, stews, and soups. It also goes well in sweeter foods, such as cakes, puddings, and cookies.
I have used many brands of spice, from the $1 versions to the expensive fresh ground spices. I suggest buying your spices fresh ground from specialty stores, or buying whole spices and grinding them yourself. I often go the easy route and use pre-ground spices. When I do use whole spices, some days I use a mortar and pestle, and other times I use my electric grinder. Be sure to store your herbs in sealed containers in cool, dry locations.
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