Backstory: Perfect timing on this one. I have been keeping a list of spices I’m low on so that I can place a big order with Penzeys Spices. Just this morning, I pulled that list off the side of the fridge with plans to order this week, then I drew this challenge. What shall I try? Hmmm….
P.S. If you’re looking for inspiration, I encourage you to visit a nearby spice shop where you can smell and sometimes taste the offerings. Most also offer recipes either in the store or online. Why not try something totally different!
This is so fun. We started ordering pre-measured meals from SunBasket. It comes with all the ingredients- you do the preparation & cooking – all the produce has to be washed and prepared and all the spices are pre-mixed and pre-measured in packets. Because between us all our meals have to be Gluten Free & Dairy Free, we have been choosing a lot of Asian, Indian and other exotic meals to prepare we have been using a lot of spices and foods we have never cooked with before. Who knew fennel was so great….and we now order anything with Lemongrass…..nice trying new things. Good for you Kathleen!
Love your blog! I had some time before I needed to check in 24 hours before a flight on Southwest, so I started reading your posts. I got so absorbed with your adventures, that I looked up, and it was one minute before I was to check in. I scrambled to get the confirmation code entered and made it on time, but still got B28 🙁
Thanks for your inspirations. Can’t wait for the next installment.
This is such a great idea! I don’t use half of my spices. Time to visit a spice store and get some recipes. Thank you for starting this blog. Super inspirational –
Two more facets to this challenge, First I suggest trying fresh spices, maybe insert that one for next year maybe, that said my fav spice shop is Spice Ace which is located on Steiner Street. they assemble magnificent gift baskets as well. Love their expansive selection of salts too.
Hey I have another idea, make a recipe, use part dried and part fresh and see if you can tell the difference.
This is super fun!
I have WAY too many spices. I HATE 5-spice seasoning, but I hang onto it. I can’t figure out why. At one point I had 3 onion powders & 3 kinds of cumin, but I use those a lot.
I’ve been trying to make more of my own seasoning mixes, like to replace the packets I use for taco meat. Another great way to use spices is in fresh salad dressings. My kids prefer fresh dressing over Ranch sometimes!
I’ve also seen a lot on the internet about taking fresh & freezing what you don’t use.
Bonnie mentioned lemon grass….for herbs that I use a lot….Basil, Dill, Cilantro, Garlic, Ginger, Lemongrass, etc. I get the tubes of the refrigerated herbs from the produce section. They measure the same, but give a freshness to foods you don’t get from dried spices.