FoodThe ultimate guide to cooking with spices.
If you love to cook, then you know that using the right spices can make all the difference in a dish. But with so many spices out there, it can be hard to know which ones to use and when. That's why we've put together the ultimate guide to cooking with spices.
We'll start with the basics: how to store spices and how to use them. Then we'll move on to some of our favorite spice combinations. By the end of this guide, you'll be a spice expert! So let's get started...
How to Store Spices
- To get the most out of your spices, it's important to store them properly. Keep them in a cool, dark place like a cabinet or pantry, away from light and heat. And make sure they're sealed tightly - air can cause them to lose their flavor.
- One way to keep your spices fresh is to buy them in small quantities and only as you need them. That way, you won't have a lot of old, stale spices taking up space in your pantry.
- Another tip is to write the date on the spice container when you buy it, so you know how long it's been sitting on your shelf. Most spices will stay fresh for about a year, but some (like cumin and turmeric) can last for two years or more.
- Now that you know how to store spices, let's talk about how to use them. When it comes to cooking with spices, less is usually more. You can always add more if it's not flavorful enough, but you can't take it away once it's added.
- Start by adding just a little bit of the spice to your dish, then taste and adjust as needed. It's also a good idea to smell the spice before you add it, so you know what flavor you're working with.
- In general, dried spices are best added at the beginning of cooking, so they have time to release their flavor. Fresh herbs can be added at the end, just before serving.
Cumin and chili powder: This classic combination is often used in Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes. Try it in enchiladas, tacos, or nachos.
Curry powder and turmeric: These two spices go hand-in-hand in Indian cooking. They're often used in curries, but they're also great in rice dishes and soups.
Garlic powder and onion powder: These two common spices go well together in just about any dish. Try them in pasta sauce, on roasted vegetables, or in a homemade salad dressing.
Oregano and basil: These two herbs are commonly used together in Italian cooking. They're delicious in pasta dishes, pizza, and on roasted chicken or vegetables.
Rosemary and thyme: This classic herb combination is often used in French cooking. Try it in roasted meats or vegetables, or in a homemade soup or stew.
Now that you've read our ultimate guide to cooking with spices, you're ready to start experimenting! Remember to start with just a little bit of spice, you can always add more if needed. And have fun coming up with your own flavor combinations.15
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