When you’re getting ready to show off your kitchen talents, basic spices can make all the difference. Here’s a collection of 11 important cooking spices you should be familiar with, whether you want to learn to cook well or just love creating delicious meals for your family and friends. 🍳
11. Black Pepper
Sometimes referred to as the “King of Spice,” – black pepper is a spice on this item that you usually see in your kitchen. It’s a universal ingredient that adds some heat to many dishes. Grinding whole peppercorns before use releases a more intense flavor compared to pre-ground pepper. Whether you’re seasoning meat or adding a touch of spice to a salad, black pepper is an important spice to have on hand.
10. Cumin
Next on the list is Cumin – a spice that adds a warm, rich flavor to many dishes. It’s a common ingredient in chili powder and curry powder, and just a small amount can improve the taste of many meals. You might remember its slightly nutty smell in Mexican bean dishes or flavorful Indian curries. Cumin can be used whole or ground, depending on your preference.
9. Paprika
Paprika comes in a range of choices, from mild to spicy. It adds both rich color and richness of flavor to many dishes. The smoky taste of paprika perfectly complements dishes like Spanish paella or Hungarian goulash. If you’re looking for a more exciting new way to use a spice, try smoked paprika. This variation adds a delightful smoky flavor to vegetarian dishes or grilled meats.
8. Cinnamon
Cinnamon isn’t just for sweet delicacies! This universal spice can also be used in delicious dishes like stews and Moroccan tagines. A sprinkle of cinnamon can add a touch of sweetness and a warm, slightly sweet flavor to your favorite desserts. It can also add a touch of spice to roasted vegetables.
7. Garlic Powder
Garlic powder is a convenient alternative to fresh garlic, offering a longer shelf life. It adds a flavorful garlic taste to your dishes without the need for peeling and chopping fresh cloves. This makes it a perfect choice when you need a quick garlic flavor, like in marinades, quick salad dressings, or even sprinkled over homemade pizza.
6. Turmeric
If black pepper is the “king of spice”, then turmeric is often called the “Golden Spice” and is known for its rich color and special flavor. It has a slightly bitter, earthy taste and can be found in dishes like mustard and curries. Turmeric is also sometimes used in a health drink called “Golden Milk.” An additional benefit of turmeric is the beautiful yellow color it imparts to any dish it’s used in.
5. Dried Oregano
Dried oregano is somehow one of the usual spices in European countries, especially the Italian and Greek people. 🤌 It becomes more concentrated in flavor when dried, making it perfect for sprinkling on pizza or adding to a classic tomato sauce. The sweet smell of this spice comes with a small bitter taste which adds to the taste, perfect when cooking meats and vegetables.
4. Ground Ginger
Ground ginger offers a unique flavor profile—it’s spicy and sweet with a bit of a bite. This makes it a universal ingredient, useful not just in Asian dishes but also in baking and soothing teas. When fresh ginger isn’t available, ground ginger is a handy replacement that can save you in a pinch.
3. Red Pepper Flakes
If you’re someone who enjoys a touch of spice in their meals, the red pepper flakes are a must-have spice in your kitchen. It has a rich flavor that levels up any dish you cook, from a simple pasta arrabbiata to a spicy marinara sauce. Just a small amount or pinch can give a burst of warmth and spiciness to the dishes you cook.
2. Ground Nutmeg
Ground nutmeg has a special sweetness with a mild to strong flavor, so a little goes a long way. A tiny sprinkle of nutmeg can add a touch of warmness and richness to creamy sauces or traditional holiday treats like pumpkin pie. This spice can sometimes be a nice addition to delicious dishes, and most likely to give an extra layer of flavor.
1. Curry Powder
Last on the list is curry powder, a blend of different spices, including cumin, coriander, and turmeric. It immediately adds a flavor characteristic of mostly South Asian cuisine to your dishes. This universal spice can improve everything from the famous chicken curries to hot and warm lentil soups. It can also be used as a rub for meats or as a colorful sprinkle to add visual and taste interest to vegetables.
Ready to Spice Up Your Next Meal?
Exciting, right? These are the spices that you’ll surely use daily! These essential spices are must-haves if you want to improve your cooking experience. Just take note that these spices are used to add extra flavor, so it’s important to understand that you should use a moderate amount. Happy cooking!