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The world of spices can be overwhelming. If you grew up in a culture that didn’t value or use spices, you may have very little sense of what spices taste like and which to use in what dish. Or, you may have accumulated a bunch of random spices from past dishes you’ve made and have no idea how else to use them.
Spices can be pricey. Some exotic spices can cost hundreds of dollars a pound. Spices like Saffron can be as much as $1,000.00 a pound. Investing in a spice without knowing if you love it doesn’t make sense, but it also can prevent you from experiencing amazing taste and losing out on health benefits.
Don’t Go Overboard Buying Spices
You don’t have to go overboard buying spices. Instead do your research and discover which spices sound the most appealing to your senses and health needs. If you love sweets, consider investing in the highest quality cinnamon you can afford to get the maximum taste and antioxidant benefit.
Here are some tips to begin to collect spices…and better health, one spice at a time.
Tip: Start with the basics- You can easily begin building your spice collection with basic, affordable spices. Some of the most common are oregano, garlic, onion powder, citrus blend salts or peppers, cinnamon, and bay leaves. Depending on your preferred style of cooking, you may have a different list of basics to have on hand.
Tip: Ask for advice- If you have friends or family who are great in the kitchen, ask them for advice about spices. If you enjoy an item at a restaurant, ask your server which spices made the dish special.
Tip: Learn proper storage for your spices- Spices do expire so it’s important to store them properly to protect from sunlight, moisture, and heat. Many spices can lose their potency within six months depending on whether they are whole or ground. If you love the look of a cohesive spice cabinet, you can purchase air tight bottles in uniform sizes and label them for an attractive aesthetic.
Tip: Find the balance between access and value- It’s possible to find great deals on spices at discount stores or on clearance, but be sure to check spices for vibrancy. Spices should be bright and colorful. You can test them by grinding them between your fingers and checking that their color and scent are potent. When possible, buy spices from bulk bins where you can control the amount you buy. If you choose a spice you don’t need often, you can purchase less and avoid waste.
Tip: Make your own spice blends- Spice blends can be expensive. Buying key spices in larger quantities allows you to make your own spice blends and save money overall.
You don’t have to spend a lot of money to begin to benefit from the taste and health properties of spices. Enjoy exploring the world of spices and take your time collecting them.
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