Spices
Homemade Green Chilli Powder Recipe
Learn how to make sun-dried, pure and flavourful green chilli powder at home. Recipe video included.
The Top 10 Hottest Peppers in the World
From the Ghost Pepper to the Carolina Reaper, this article ranks the 10 hottest peppers in the world. It provides a brief overview of each pepper's heat output (in regard to Scoville Heat Units), flavor, and overall taste.
Green vs. Black vs. White Peppercorns (Plus a Green Peppercorn Sauce Recipe)
You can make a spectacular tasting green peppercorn sauce by reading this recipe. Learn about the differences between the different colors of peppercorns derived from the same plant and how it is grown, plus health benefits. The history of the spice trade is also fascinating.
Top 15 Important Masala Powders of Indian Cuisine
Indian cuisine makes frequent use of different types of masala powders. "Masala" simply means "blend of spices," and a masala powder is the ground powder of a whole spice mixture. Let's take a look at the top 15 most important masala powders in Indian cuisine.
All About Cajun Seasoning: Brands, Uses, and DIY Recipe
Cajun seasoning originated in Louisiana where delicious Cajun cuisine is popular. In this article, I'll tell you how to use it, what some of the best brands are, and how to whip up your own homemade blend.
Exploring Vanilla: An Amazing History and Innovative Recipes
When did vanilla become synonymous with bland and boring? Let's learn its history and how to use it in innovative ways (no cupcakes).
4 Undiscovered Spices to Add to Your Everyday Cooking Toolkit
Is it time to incorporate some new flavors into your cooking? These four rare, exotic spices have a lot to offer, and I guarantee you'll be the only person you know who uses them.
Exploring Turmeric: The Ancient Golden Spice of Meals and Medication
Turmeric tantalizes our taste buds but can it heal our bodies, as well? Let’s examine the history of this golden spice, its medicinal uses, and how to include it in our diets.
Exploring Saffron, World's Most Expensive Spice + 5 Recipes
In this world, there is no other aroma, flavor, or color like saffron, but what sets it apart from all other spices is how it is harvested. Learn the history of this “red gold” and how to use it in your kitchen.
Making Your Own Spice Mixes
Making your own spice mixes is a quick and easy way to stock your home with your favorite spices without all of the extra ingredients you'll find at the store. I love either growing or buying my own fresh veggies and dehydrating them at home for fresh spices in my cupboard when I need them.
Exploring Paprika: How to Use the "New World" Spice
Paprika wasn't an exotic spice of the Far East. It originated in the New World, was introduced to Europe, and then spread to Asia. More than a pretty garnish, it's used in many dishes. Recipes here!
Split Chickpea and Lentil Chutney Powder Recipe
Spicy chutney powders make a yummy side dish. You can make these powders, and they stay fresh for months. This roasted split chickpea and white lentil dry chutney is very tasty and aromatic.
The Ultimate Herb & Spice Flavor Pairing Guide
Which spices go well together? Which herbs taste best with which ingredients? Here, you'll find a flavor pairing guide to help you get creative in the kitchen and create delicious dishes, including unusual and international spices.
15 Totally Unnecessary Pumpkin Spice Products
15 over-the-top and totally unnecessary pumpkin pie and pumpkin spice products.
The Strange Appeal of Super Spicy Food
A fiery assault on the mouth, and through the digestive system, that some can’t resist.
Flavors of the World: Cayenne Pepper of the New World
Does a shaker of cayenne pepper linger in your pantry? Cayenne—a fiery red spice feared by many … until now. With a bit of history and a few recipes, I can help you warm up to cayenne.
Exploring Nutmeg: Dark History of the Christmas Spice and My Favorite Recipes
Once upon a time, 1 pound of nutmeg was valued as more than 7 oxen, was worthy of employing 10,000 soldiers and a 200-ship armada, and was "justification" for the slaughter of thousands.
Exploring Ginger: The Christmas Spice for Sweets Is Great for Dinner, Too
What do merchants and monarchs, sages, and sheep have in common? All played a part in the history of ginger. Join me for a story about this treasured spice, and I'll also share my favorite recipes.
Exploring Cloves: The Christmas Spice Adds a Touch of Heat to Every Meal
Cloves, the spice of mulled cider, cookies, and fruitcake, is another flavor of Christmas. Allow me to share with you a bit of history about this spice and some recipes that will last all year long.
Homemade Taco Seasoning for Beef or Chicken
This homemade taco seasoning is easily made from common spices you already have in your kitchen. The recipe can also be easily adapted for spicy or non-spicy food lovers.
13 Substitutes for Mixed Spices (From Curry Powder to Pickling Spice)
Use spices you have on hand to make your own spice mixes. It's economical and easy using this handy reference guide featuring popular seasoning blend recipes.
Ten Basic Spices Every Cook Should Have on Hand
Every cook should be armed with his own stash of spices. Spices add flavor and excitement to dishes and when cleverly used, can bring out the best of flavors in the food. This article details ten basic spices every cook should have on hand.
Star Anise: A Tasty and Versatile Spice With a Licorice Flavor
Star anise is a delicious spice with a strong licorice taste. It's a great flavor-enhancer for many foods. Choosing the right type is important for safety.
Aromatic Spices: The Basic Ingredients of Indian Cuisine
Indian cuisine incorporates a variety of aromatic spices. The spices are used in abundance in Indian curries, bringing rich flavors to the meal.
What Is Paprika? How Do You Cook With It and Use It?
Paprika is a ubiquitous spice made of ground bell peppers. Sometimes there are also ground chilies in the mix. You can use it as a garnish or as a dish's main flavor.
How to Toast Spices (And Why You Should)
How old are the spices in your spice rack? Learn how long spices and herbs keep, and also learn how to toast your own spices at home. Video demo included.
22 Common Herbs and Spices in Asian Cuisine
If you want to try your hand at preparing Asian cuisine, it's a good idea to stock up on the basic seasonings. See an overview of the basic herbs and spices below!