Spice Up Your Kitchen: 7 Homemade Spice Blends to Transform Your Cooking

Homemade spice blends are a great way to add flavor and depth to your cooking while also saving money and reducing waste. By creating your own spice blends, you can customize the flavors to your liking and avoid the additives and preservatives often found in store-bought blends.

Here are some examples of popular spice blends you can make at home:

1. Chili Powder: To make chili powder, combine 2 tablespoons paprika, 2 teaspoons cumin, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Mix well and store in an airtight container.
2. Pumpkin Pie Spice: To make pumpkin pie spice, combine 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons ground ginger, 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg, and 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cloves. Mix well and store in an airtight container.
3. Taco Seasoning: To make taco seasoning, combine 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mix well and store in an airtight container.
4. Garam Masala: Garam masala is a blend of spices commonly used in Indian cuisine. To make it, combine 2 tablespoons ground coriander, 2 tablespoons ground cumin, 1 tablespoon ground cardamom, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, 1 tablespoon ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon ground cloves, and 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg. Mix well and store in an airtight container.
5. Italian Seasoning: Italian seasoning is a versatile blend that can be used in pasta dishes, marinades, and more. To make it, combine 1 tablespoon dried basil, 1 tablespoon dried oregano, 1 tablespoon dried thyme, 1 tablespoon dried rosemary, 1 tablespoon dried parsley, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Mix well and store in an airtight container.
6. Herbs de Provence: Herbs de Provence is a blend of herbs originating from the Provence region in France. To make it, combine 2 tablespoons dried thyme, 2 tablespoons dried rosemary, 2 tablespoons dried savory, 1 tablespoon dried oregano, 1 tablespoon dried marjoram, and 1 teaspoon dried lavender. Mix well and store in an airtight container.
7. Ras el Hanout: Ras el Hanout is a Moroccan spice blend that translates to “top of the shop.” It’s often used in tagines, stews, and couscous dishes. To make it, combine 1 tablespoon ground cumin, 1 tablespoon ground ginger, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, 1 tablespoon ground coriander, 1 tablespoon ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon ground allspice, 1 teaspoon ground cardamom, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Mix well and store in an airtight container.

When making your own spice blends, it’s important to use fresh, high-quality spices for the best flavor. You can also adjust the ratios of the spices to suit your taste preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices combinations to create your unique blends. With a little practice and experimentation, you can create delicious spice blends that add depth and complexity to your favorite dishes.