Pantry Basics- Spices, Packets, and Seasonings


     A good spice rack can take your meals from okay to WOW!  I still don't know what all of the spices on my spice rack can be used for, but I do have some that I use all of the time and couldn't live without! 
     There are common spices, or herbs, that should be in every pantry, and these spices are usually found in many recipes.  Let me be specific about spices, herbs, and seasonings.  A spice or an herb is something that is grown and then dried.  The difference between a spice and an herb is determined by the part of the plant that it comes from.  Okay...I know, I know, not the most exciting post so far...but because we are talking about spices and herbs, I thought you may find it interesting that spices and herbs are not the same thing! 

     So what is the difference?  Although both spices and herbs are part of plants, they are derived from different parts of the plant.  Spices come from the root, stem, or seeds from a plant.  Some examples of spices are cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.  Herbs come from the leaves of the plants.  Some examples of herbs are thyme, basil, oregano, and parsley.  As a root vegetable, onions and garlic would be considered spices when dried.  So if you are asked to use onion or garlic powder then that would be a spice. 

     Alright, so I'm now done with my science lesson for the day!  Spices and herbs are written interchangeably on most recipes so try not to be confused.  So what spices or herbs should you have in your pantry?  Great question!  Take a look at your favorite recipes and determine which spices and herbs are required for them; those are the spices and herbs that you should have in your pantry. 

     Below is the list of spices and herbs that I have in my pantry at all times.  If you are just beginning to cook, these are the ones that you will want to have on hand right away. 

Basil
Oregano
Thyme
Cumin
Chili Powder
Red Pepper Flakes
Onion Powder
Garlic Powder
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Ginger
Rosemary
Black Pepper


     What about seasonings?  What are those?  So for these, I think about a mix of different herbs and spices that make a seasoning blend.  For example, Italian seasoning, chicken seasoning, and season salts are all seasoning blends.  In addition, a seasoning packet like taco seasoning and chili seasoning are also spice blends. 

     So, what should you have in your pantry?  All of the above...especially if you are just starting out.  Luckily most of these spices and packets can be purchased for less than a dollar and they last a long time if stored properly.  I try to go through my spices and herbs twice a year.  They lose their potency after a while, especially once they're open.  If you notice that the smell or color of your herbs is not as strong as it was when you first got it, then you may want to replace it.  Try not to purchase an herb rack with a lot of spices that you have never heard of before, you probably won't use them, and that is just a waste of your money. 

Do you have spices in your pantry that aren't on this list?  Please share!  We would love to hear your fresh ideas.

I hope that this was helpful!  Next week I'm going to talk about stocking up your fridge and freezer.

Blessings to All!

Kim