Spice Mix Recipes

When it comes to my kitchen masterpieces (aka… dinner) my secret weapons are spices. Spices make things interesting, they can add subtle or "in your face" flavor.  From the flavor of home cooked comfort to tangy and exotic treats, spices can take an average dish and turn it into something amazing.

That being said, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to spices.

1. When it comes to spices, fresh is best.

No, I’m not talking about fresh herbs (though I’ll admit, they are my FAVORITE to cook with as they add the best flavors), I’m talking about your spice cabinet. Throw away your old spices. Seriously, throw them away… they aren’t doing you any good.  Many spices have expiration dates on them, if it’s past the expiration date, don’t expect that spice to have the same flavor it did when it was fresh. I recommend keeping your favorite go-to spices on hand and buying small containers of spices you only use on special occasions like holidays (or share with family and/or friends!).

In addition to not tasting as great as when they were “new” spices can grow mold (ewww) just like any other food. This can happen naturally, but many of us accidently speed the process up by shaking or grinding over steaming dishes.  That steam can get into your spice container which when placed in a warm place is asking to grow into things we’re not intending to add to our Sweet Potato Chili or Curried Shrimp Stuffed Peppers. I’ll be honest, I’m guilty too, so just keep it fresh. (***Tip: Check out your quality grocery store’s bulk options for spices you don’t need much of, just be wary if the bulk spices are in very large containers. If they are, they may be older than your spices!  Don’t be afraid to ask the employees what their policy regarding is regarding keeping things fresh.)

2. Buy quality.

I'm a firm believer in quality spices... you can quite literally taste the difference.  Yes, there are spices you can buy for 50 cents and that same spice may cost you $3.99 in the organic, quality brand.  Just like many other things, when it comes to spices, you get what you pay for.  Granted, there are always exceptions to every rule, but in my experience buying quality makes a difference.  Oh, and go for glass. Again, I have no specific research other than my taste buds that can tell you that spices out of glass are generally better, but I have pretty good taste buds.

3. Watch out for "pre-made" mixes.

Whether it is taco mix or pumpkin pie spice, watch out for pre-made spice mixes. They often have tons of salt (waaaaay more than necessary), and hidden additives (yes, even MSG). I try to stay away from pre-made spice mixes by making my own. Not only is this often more cost efficient, but I have more control over the flavor (bonus!).  I’ve included some of my favorite spice combinations below… so don’t worry, I’m not leaving you out in the cold. I’ve got your back!

4. When all else fails, smell them!

One of the simplest cooking tips I was given was, “if it smells good together, it will probably taste good together,” and you know what? That’s generally true. I’ll go ahead and take that one step further. If it doesn’t smell good… don’t use it, plain and simple. I know you don’t want to waste anything (myself included), but if you’re using something that belongs in the trash can you’re treating your body (and your family’s bodies) like a trash can, and you’re better than that. You deserve to fuel your body with the highest quality food, and with that comes high quality taste.

SPICE RECIPES

For all spices, combine all ingredients and store in an airtight container away from direct sunlight for up to six months (less isn’t a bad thing!).

ADOBO SEASONING
(probably the most time intensive, but also one of my faves!) 
1 Tbsp. paprika
1 Tbsp. coriander
1 Tbsp. turmeric
1 Tbsp. finely grated lemon peel
2 tsp. ground black pepper
1½ tsp. onion powder
1½ tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. saffron
1 tsp. sea salt (or Himalayan salt)

ALL-PURPOSE SEASONING
4 tsp. onion powder
2 tsp. garlic powder
2 tsp. mustard powder
¼ tsp. dried thyme
¼ tsp. ground black pepper
1 tsp. sea salt (or Himalayan salt)

ITALIAN HERB SEASONING
1 T Mediterranean oregano, dried
1 T basil, dried
1 T sage, dried
1 t rosemary, dried
1 t red pepper flakes

***Tip: Before using, crush herbs between your fingers to release more flavor.

MEDITERRANEAN SEASONING
4 Tbsp. dried parsley, crushed
4 tsp. dried onion flakes
2 tsp. dried basil, crushed
1 tsp. ground oregano
1 tsp. ground thyme
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. sea salt (or Himalayan salt)
¼ tsp. ground black pepper

PUMPKIN PIE SPICE MIX
This mix makes 2 tablespoons of pumpkin pie spice. Feel free to double or triple this recipe. =)
1/2 t mace, ground
1 T cinnamon, ground
1 t ginger, ground
1/2 t cloves, ground
1/2 t allspice, ground
1/2 t nutmeg, ground

SMOKY SOUTHWESTERN SEASONING
1 Tbsp. chili powder
2 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. coriander
½ tsp. onion powder
½ tsp. garlic powder
½ tsp. dried oregano
½ tsp. smoked paprika
1 tsp. sea salt (or Himalayan salt)

TACO SEASONING
(I use 2 Tbsp per pound of meat)

1 Tbsp chili powder
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (more or less to taste)
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp paprika