If you love cooking, then you probably have a cabinet full of different spices that you are not afraid to use, but you can always add more flavor and more spice to your cooking.
Whether you’re whipping up a classic dish from a far-flung vista or doing some exciting experimentation with fusion cuisine, you absolutely have to try these eight unique spices!
Using them in your recipes will take your cooking to a whole new level.
Sumac
Sumac is a tangy, Middle Eastern spice with a vibrant red hue that adds a citrusy punch to dishes. You may have seen it peppered across hummus or other dips when you’re out at a restaurant that serves food from this region. Sprinkle it over salads, meats, or dips for a zesty kick that will awaken your taste buds.
Za’atar
Za’atar is a versatile spice blend made from thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and salt and an absolute must to have in your spice arsenal if you like Middle Eastern food. Use it as a seasoning for bread, meats, or roasted vegetables to impart a savory and aromatic flavor profile, really transforming even the simplest dishes into something special.
Sichuan Peppercorns
Sichuan peppercorns originate from China and are known for their unique (arguably kind of intense) numbing and tingling sensation. Add them to stir-fries, soups, or marinades for a spicy and citrusy flavor that is sure to tantalize your palate—but do so sparingly if you aren’t familiar with this flavor!
Berebere
If you’ve been looking for something other than cayenne to add a kick to your dishes, berebere will fit the bill. This blend from Ethiopia is an intense, warming combination of chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and various aromatic spices. Use it to season stews, lentils, or grilled meats for a rich and robust flavor experience (remember to serve it with yogurt or another cooling element; it can be seriously spicy!).
Garam Masala
A popular spice blend in Indian cuisine, garam masala is a fragrant mixture of warm spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. Sprinkle it over curries, rice dishes, or roasted vegetables for a burst of aromatic goodness. Truthfully, there’s no making authentic Indian cuisine without this hanging out on your spice rack.
Ras el Hanout
Translating to “top of the shop,” ras el hanout is a Moroccan spice blend that combines over twenty different spices, including the heavy hitters like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. It’s a must if you need to season tagines, couscous, or grilled meats. The result is a complex and exotic flavor profile that you can’t replicate with other spices.
Shichimi Togarashi
Shichimi togarashi is a Japanese spice blend of chili peppers, orange peel, and sesame seeds. Despite it having some pretty specific ingredients, togarashi is excellent on basically everything. But if you’re looking for something specific, sprinkle it over noodles, rice dishes, or grilled seafood for a spicy and aromatic kick.
Harissa
Harissa is a fiery condiment from North Africa. It’s a paste made from roasted red peppers, chili peppers, garlic, and other warming spices. We recommend using it as a marinade, dip, or seasoning for meats, vegetables, or couscous for a bold and smoky flavor boost.
Experts Warn People to ALWAYS Refrigerate These 12 Non-Food Items
We all know our fridge and freezer are great for food and beverage preservation, but did you know you could use your fridge for other things beyond your kitchen pantry? You can store multiple things in your refrigerator to maintain potency, extend shelf life, or preserve them.
Find out more as we list some of the surprising things you can keep in your refrigerator besides food.
Experts Warn People to ALWAYS Refrigerate These 12 Non-Food Items
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A well-stocked pantry can provide peace of mind and empower you to handle any situation. Whether it’s a natural disaster, economic instability, or simply unexpected guests, having a stash of versatile essential foods can make all the difference.
Here’s a list of 20 of the best foods to stockpile, ensuring you’re ready for whatever comes your way.
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