Oh, what would we do without spices and seasonings? For centuries, they have been used to add incredible flavor to food, and without them, everything we eat today will be nothing but bland! Seriously, you’d be surprised at the huge variety of spices and seasonings used around the world, but some of them are more popular than others. Are you ready to upgrade your kitchen pantry or simply educate yourself on some of the best seasonings and spices today? If so, you’re in the right place! Here are some of the most incredible seasonings and spice blends you can find in the world:
Ras el Hanout
Ras el Hanout is a unique North African spice mixture of up to thirty distinct spices. The blend typically contains cardamom, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, nutmeg, and mace. It is used to enhance the flavor of soups, stews, and tagines, and it adds an intense complexity to any dish.
Chinese Five Spice
Next, we will look at Chinese Five Spice, also known as wu xiang fen. This blend of spices combines star anise, cloves, cinnamon, fennel, and Sichuan peppercorns. This blend is commonly used in Chinese and other Asian cuisines to add depth and complexity to dishes. It is often used to season meat, poultry, and fish dishes, as well as soups and stir-fries.
Za’atar
Another popular spice blend is Za’atar, which is a Middle Eastern blend of herbs, often including oregano, thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds. This spice blend is most commonly used to season meats, vegetables, and salads, and it adds a unique and delicious flavor to various dishes.
Garam Masala
The fourth spice blend we will discuss is Garam Masala, which is a popular Indian blend. This blend usually contains a combination of coriander, cumin, black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Garam masala is often found as an essential ingredient especially in curries and other dishes, and it adds warmth and depth to any dish.
Baharat
Baharat is a well-known combination of spices from Turkey. This blend typically contains a combination of black pepper, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, nutmeg, and paprika. Use-wise, Baharat is included in many kebabs and meat dishes, adding a wonderful and unique flavor profile.
Advieh
Advieh is a Persian blend of spices that is used in many Middle Eastern dishes. This blend usually contains a combination of cumin, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, and rose petals. Furthermore, advieh is a great addition to stews and rice dishes, enhancing the flavors tremendously.
Shichimi Togarashi
Shichimi Togarashi is a Japanese spice blend that is used for adding a bit of heat and flavor to dishes. This blend usually contains a combination of chili peppers, sesame seeds, orange peel, poppy seeds, nori, and ginger. Not only can it be sprinkled onto dishes such as noodles, rice, and soups but it also gives an enjoyable flavorful kick to these dishes.
Conclusion
Spice blends are an excellent way to add flavor and variety to your dishes, and with so many out there, you’re spoiled for choice! Furthermore if you find yourself missing any of these above incredible seasonings and spice blends, go ahead and purchase them. Be creative and experiment! You might just discover the next best spice and seasoning that you love to use.
Food Fire + Knives offers professional private chef catering and the private chef experience to those looking to enjoy the best food items with ease. If you are looking for a private chef in Philadelphia, reach out to us today!
