Veteran and rookie chefs all have something in common—choosing the best flavors for their dishes. With all the different spices to choose from, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and have too many. After salt and pepper, consider branching out into these essential kitchen spices every at-home chef needs.
Chili Powder
Number one on the list for a whole host of reasons is chili powder. From its many different flavors to its plethora of health benefits, every kitchen needs chili powder. Though it’s not an ‘all spice’ per se, it does contain many spices, such as garlic, cumin, oregano, clove, coriander, and, yes, chiles.
With all that it offers in flavor, this perfect blend of spice and everything nice carries some health attributes, like relieving nasal congestion. So make sure to grab a container the next time you’re at the grocery.
Ground Ginger
Locked and loaded with antioxidants, ground ginger is a staple for the kitchen, though often overlooked. In general, ginger is excellent for sweet treats like pumpkin spice and gingerbread recipes. Or you can look beyond the holiday sweetness and add the artistic essence of some Japanese dishes with flavors like shichimi togarashi.
Onion Powder
Onion powder is a similar spice to garlic powder. It’s an excellent add-in spice for homemade rubs and dressings. Naturally, it enhances the flavors of the food it’s cooked with and benefits the dish with vitamins B and C. Onion powder can also provide antioxidants and help mouth sores.
Garlic Powder
While salt and pepper are staples and find their way into almost everything, garlic powder is the next best thing. If you’re running low on time but want flavor without going complete mix master, this is your best friend. And like almost all other spices, the benefits of garlic extend beyond taste.
Ground Cinnamon
By far, one of the essential kitchen spices every at-home chef needs is ground cinnamon. Whether you’re baking or cooking, there are many uses for cinnamon. To pull a specific flavor through your dishes, you need a particular spice to get the job done. The dimension of cinnamon adds something savory to desserts, dinners, and even drinks.
Ensure you store your spice collection in a cool, dark, and dry location for good measure. And use them within roughly six months for best use. Always remember that it doesn’t matter if you’re a pro in the kitchen or just beginning to learn your way around; this list of essentials suits all needs and skill levels and contributes considerably to dishes and lifestyles. Bon Appetit!