20/10/2023
*15 ESSENTIAL spices* and how to use them:
*Allspice:* Warm allspice adds a special something-something to a variety of dishes from stews and meaty braises to desserts.
*Bay leaves:* Mild and herbal, bay leaves are great for long-simmering soups and stews. Always pull them out before serving, as the leaves themselves aren’t edible.
*Black pepper:* Sharp and pungent, black pepper is a ubiquitous seasoning often paired with salt to finish off just about any dish.
*Caraway:* This slightly aniseed-like spice can be used whole or ground in sweet or savory baked goods, braises, and casseroles.
*Chili flakes:* Made of dried and crushed red chili peppers. Sprinkle chili flakes on dishes as a spicy garnish or let them linger in stews and sauces.
*Cinnamon:* Sold ground or as whole sticks, cinnamon is often relegated to sweet baking projects but makes a delicious addition to savory dishes too.
*Coriander:* Citrusy and subtly sweet, use whole or ground in curries or on roasted vegetables and meats.
*Cumin:* Whether used whole or ground, this is a warm and nutty spice that works well in curries, soups, marinades, and sauces.
*Curry powder:* A spice mix typically composed of coriander, cumin, turmeric, and fenugreek, curry powder can add a kick of flavor to roasted vegetables, simple fried eggs, and many other dishes.
*Dried oregano:* Unlike many other herbs, oregano retains its sweet and earthy flavor when dried. Add a pinch to salad dressings, pizza, or pasta sauce.
*Dried thyme:* Like oregano, thyme retains its slightly lemony, minty flavor when dried. If replacing fresh thyme with dried, use less, as dried thyme is even more pungent.
*Fennel seeds:* With a licorice-like flavor and subtle sweetness, fennel seeds are delicious when paired with roasted meats and vegetables, as their flavor really emerges when heated.
*Nutmeg:* Too much nutmeg can overwhelm a dish, so err on the scant side. Rather than going for ground, try buying whole nutmeg and grating it fresh when adding to dishes.
*Paprika:* Ranging in flavor from sweet to hot, paprika can be used to add a subtle or strong spiciness and smoke to soups and stews.
*Salt:* u can found it everywhere.
