Stock your Spice Cabinet
I couldn’t cook nearly as well as I do without my well-stocked spice cabinet. There are so many more flavors you can give food when you have the necessary tools. Just salt and pepper don’t cut it for me. I like my food to have complex flavors that give my taste buds something to think about.
One thing you should know about me is that I almost always cook according to taste. In high school Anatomy and Physiology we performed a taste bud lab and I found out that I am what is known as a “SuperTaster.”
Because I can experience certain flavors with more intensity than the average person, I’ve learned to taste as I go. When I’m following someone else’s recipe I’ll usually start with half the amount of hot spices, and add according to my tastes. Sometimes I’ll want more than the original, other times I might want less.
I find that I’m especially sensitive to cayenne. While I might want 3 dashes in the whole dish, Eric would be happy with 3 dashes just in his portion. But other “hot/spicy” flavors don’t bother me as much.
A few months ago I shared this post: Kitchen Tip: A Well Stocked Spice Cabinet and mentioned what my favorite holiday baking spices were. We’ll, we’re not in holiday baking mode anymore so I’ll share some of my other favorite spices.
Favorites from my Spice Cabinet
- Cardamom (Recipe: Cardamom Citrus Coffee Cake)
- Chili Powder (Recipe: Quinoa Taco Salad)
- Coriander (Recipe Orange Thai Beef Skewers)
- Garam Masala (Recipe: Indian Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice)
- Curry Powder (Recipe: Coconut Chicken Curry Soup)
- Ground Cumin (Recipe: Cumin-Lime Pork and Pineapple Quesasdillas)
- Nutmeg (Recipe: Muffins That Taste Like Donuts)
- Smoked Paprika (Recipe: Smoky Black Bean Soup)
I was able to try some of these and a few more from SpicesInc.com. I liked the spices so much that they’re offering a great giveaway for you too so you can get that spice cabinet of yours all stocked up.
If you have any doubts as to what you should have in your spice cabinet, be sure to check out my FREE PRINTABLE Spice Cabinet Inventory. You can download it HERE or by clicking on the above image.
Before you enter the giveaway PLEASE read the rules.
Giveaway Prize (1 winner):
Your very own customized spice set!
Value: $20 – 45, depending on your selection
Giveaway Requirements:
- Head over to SpicesInc.com and choose any 6 spices, herbs, seasonings, chiles or extracts, then name your spice set and tell me why you picked that selection.
- You may NOT enter using multiple email addresses. Automatic disqualification.
- Additional entries must leave a separate comment.
- Contest ends April 21, 2011 at 11:59 p.m. EST.
- Contest open to US States only.
- Winner will be chosen by Greg, the owner of SpicesInc.com based on creativity.
Giveaway provided by SpicesInc.com. I received a selection of spices to sample, but otherwise was not compensated for this post.
Don’t forget to leave me your worst kitchen disaster story here: Your Worst Kitchen Disaster – SPILL IT! for a chance to win a $115 Pampered Chef Pizza gift set. Your comment will help me with the Pampered Chef Blogger Blunders contest.
Callie says
WOOOHOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!
Thank you Katie and Spices, Inc. I can’t wait for my spice set to get here so we can kick off summer right!!!!!
Thank you!
Brook says
I love spices and have a whole cupboard full! I’d call my set of six Some Like It Hot…St. Louis Rib Rub, Adobo Lime Rub, Berbere,Organic Chipotle Powder, Serrano Chile Powder and Chipotle Honey Rub.
Andrea says
Definitely the Vanilla Beans – Bourbon, Hickory Salt, Organic Ceylon Cinnamon, Organic Mulling Spice, Organic Saigon Cinnamon Sticks, Garlic Salt
Lauren says
I would pick:
mustard seed powder
smoked peppercorns
chipotle powder
blackened seasoning
himalayan pink salt
cheddar cheese powder
I have never seen these in my grocery store and think they would be fun to try!
JulieD says
Thanks so much for this giveaway. This was so hard to pick! Garam masala, saffron, madagascar vanilla bean, nutmeg, cocoa powder and smoky citrus salt.
Megan says
I would chooose:
cardamom (I haven’t tried it but want to)
chipotle honey rub (sounds delicious!)
saigon cinnamon (you can never have too much)
vanilla beans (bourbon)
vanilla beans (tahitian)
thai seasoning (I love Thai food and Thailand!)
Michelle Judd says
I’d definitely name my Spice Set so it matched with the brand of my food blog — the “Taste As You Go” Spice Set. In it would be: whole nutmeg, vanilla extract, chipotle powder, Himalayan pink salt, Herbs de Provence, and organic smoked black peppercorns.
Being from Connecticut (the “Nutmeg State”), nutmeg was always the secret ingredient in dishes that my mother would prepare. Especially the dishes that called for milk or cream. The nutmeg shows versatility in savory and sweet dishes. I love vanilla, so it wouldn’t be a spice set designed by me without it. The Himalayan pink salt and organic smoked black peppercorns would provide an elevated version of the basic seasonings. Because I love it on everything from roasted potatoes to roasted chicken, Herbs de Provence HAS to be included. And I love the flavors of the American Southwest/Mexico, so why not mix it up a bit with the chipotle powder?
What a great giveaway, Katie!
Tiffany Rogers says
My spice set would be called “Bakers Dream”
Because i absolutely love to bake..that is by far my passion 🙂
Apple Pie Spice
Madagascar Vanilla Beans
Organic Ginger Powder
Organic Ground Allspice
Organic Cocoa Powder
Organic Saigon Cinnamon Powder
Heidi says
My 6 would be basil, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and parsley. It would be called pizza night. My family loves our weekly pizza nights!
Krissa says
Cardamom, allspice, smoked paprika, vanilla beans, honey powder, and saffron.
Megan says
My spice set is “The Mayan Feast” It includes:
Mayan Salt
Cacao nibs
Tomato Powder
Vanilla Extract
Crushed Epazote Leaves
Granulated Honey
All of these were cultivated by the Maya, and some of the foods were not know to the outside world before the Columbus expeditions (I’m looking at you tomato.)
Katie R says
My spice mix is: “Banish the Bland”. It includes: ground cumin, dried tarragon leaf, Greek oregano, Garam Masala, Korintje cinnamon powder and organic vanilla bean. These spices would allow me to create a variety of foods (that originate from all over the world), and they’d help me banish the bland-ness (or boring-ness) that has crept into my meal planning.
MA Ross says
I’d have to call mine “Around the World in 80 Ways”. I love to cook soooo many different cuisines and spices are hard to find at the local stores- sure, they carry the basics, but do they have my six?
-grains of paradise (to make my own Ras el Hanout)
-saffron (for saffron and pistachio cookies)
-guajillo chiles (for Abuelita’s tamale recipe)
-whole black cardamom pods (for milk tea)
-whole nutmeg (for currant scones)
-zaatar (best fried chicken ever)
Christi says
I call my mix “rub a dub dub”
– 18 Spice Chicken
– Chipotle Honey
– Cocoa Chile
– Manzanillo Mexican Seasoning
– Pork Stank
– Tropical Caribbean Turkey Rub
Lori says
Travel with me for my Around the world dinner:
As an appetizer I could whip up some roasted vegetables flavored with zahtar and tossed with feta. (zahtar)
Next, a little bowl of Madras Curry Soup. (madras curry).
Followed by the main course; Ras elhanout Rubbed Chicken (ras el hanout).
And a side of Moroccan Mashed Potatoes
And some green beans with some smoky citrus salt. (smoky citrus salt).
For dessert, some raspberry cocoa nib coffee cake. (cocoa nibs).
Now those are some serious flavors!
Marlis says
I just wanted to leave a comment about this spices giveaway from spices inc. but please DO NOT include me in the drawing. A few months ago I was privileged to win such a give-away at mykitchenaddiction.com and received a customized spice set from Spices.inc. The spices are truly amazing and i enjoy cooking with them. This is from someone who already has so many spices stored in many locations in the house because i have too many and ran out of space. LOL I am very impressed with Greg, the owner and CEO of the company and his entire team and can’t recommend them enough. Good luck to the lucky winner ! You have an amazing treat awaiting you!
Isabelle says
Hot. Shot
Habanero Hot Salt
Chipotle salt
Birdseye Chile
California chiles
Red Pepper Flakes
Emily says
smoked paprika
Zahtar
Fleur de sel
Hickory salt
adobo lime rub
citrus steak rub
Lynda says
orange zest (for baking). garlic salt (for garlic bread yum!) jamaican jerk (for manly meats). espresso rub (to try). oregano & cinnamon (staples)
Kadee says
My six would be… Saigon Cinnamon, Fleur de Sel, Hawaiian Black Salt, Cardamom, Grains of Paradise and Lavender. I’d call it “A Little Something Special” because these are all ingredients that have come up in recipes that supposedly just make the outcome that much better! And I can never find them in my small town, so they would be a lovely specialty. 🙂
Anja says
“Wake Up, Mouth”
Sichuan Peppercorns
Organic Cacao Nibs
Organic Saigon Cinnamon Powder
Birdseye Chiles
Cubeb
Pacific Sea Smoked Sea Salt
Each of these has a flavor which is like a surprise in your mouth – numbing, complexly bitter-sweet, spicy, or smoky. Each of them combines very well with at least another in the set, and they are a culturally diverse group.
Chriseda Crow says
Chipotle Powder – I just ran out
Saffron – For saffron rice
Smoked Paprika – want to try your recipe
Hickory Salt – love smokey burgers and chicken
Chipotle Honey Rub – want to try it on salmon
Thai Spice – something new!
Renee says
“Around The World”
Saffron, Thai Spice, Pizza Seasoning, Ancho Chile Powder, Hungarian Paprika, Saigon Cinnamon.
Karen says
My spice selection would be:
Basil
Oregano
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Rosemary
Bay Leaf
I would call it “The Basics”!
Katie says
I would get Basil, Oregano, Ginger, Nutmeg, Rosemary, and sea salt.
Ashley says
Mmmm, I would choose sage, nutmeg, Jamaican jerk, orange zest, cumin, and saffron: “Zest and Zing”
Sage because it’s distinctive and unique, and I really like it paired with squash.
Nutmeg because to me it’s classic, Christmastime, and delicious.
Jamaican jerk because it’s the husband’s favorite.
Orange zest because I always wish I had some on hand but never do.
Cumin because we love it and use it a TON!
Saffron because I’ve never had it because I can’t afford it. I hear it’s awesome.
Lynn says
Organic Cacao Nibs- because I would like to experiment with what I could do with it including baking and tea
Organic Garam Masala-because I want to experiment with indian food
Organic Cardamom Pods-I would like to try it with indian food
Organic Ground Coriander-I haven’t really used it before and I would like to try it.
Zahta-it looks awesome, mediterannian food
Ras El Hanout- very interesting, want to see what I can make with ith
Amelia says
1. Coriander Seed Powder: I love white ales and coriander is one of my favorite flavors to find in a white beer. I would love to try cooking with it! My father-in-law has put it in pancakes before (yum!) but has not shared his precious stash.
2. Madagascar Vanilla Beans: Who dosen’t want high quality vanilla beans in their pantry to whip out the most amazing dessert that would knock your mother-in-law’s socks off! (She always has a from scratch baked good when we visit – which is monthly!)
3. Pizza seasoning blend: I usually make my own salt-free blends (taco, pumpkin pie & cajun) but I would love to add pizza seasoning blend to a variety of soups and italian food…and homemade pizza (with fontina – not motz) of course!
4. Wasabi Powder: for those nights when the budget doesn’t allow for sushi – this would hit the spot for my imitation crab stuffed peppers.
5. Organic Cocoa Powder: I promise to throw away my Nestle Special Dark cocoa powder if I win this.
6. Organic Garam Masala: I have never cooked with garam masala and I had to pick one adventurous spice to try!
jacquie says
i’m much more a baker so what i woudl choose would be more in that line – and it is plain regular stuff that is hard for me to find so i’m sure i’m not going to win based on that criteris 🙂
kaonnitje, saigon and chinese cinamon because i do love the basic warm coziness of cinamon. also i would welcome the opportunity to do a taste comparison btwn types as i hear they are different and i would like to see how so and how they might be each used to their own advantages.
Lemon zest – because i like the fruityness it brings to things and i’m finding as i age and arthritis sets in it is harder and harder for me to actually zest an lemon (or a lime or an orange…)
Madagasar vanilla bean – because i want to experiment w/ making vanilla sugar & have never used vanilla beans.
cardomom seed powder – because i just love the taste & feel it much under-utilized spice.
Katie says
I am much more into baking than cooking, but so many of these spices can be used in both!
Organic Saigon Cinnamon- I have never tried the Saigon, but I have heard it is amazing, and I think cinnamon is fabulous in just about anything!
Organic Vanilla Beans- I love the flavor that vanilla adds and vanilla beans contain so much flavor, they are so great!
Organic Almond Extract- I love almond flavor, it adds such a great taste to so many baked goods, I would probably add it to everything 🙂
Organic Cacao Nibs- because who doesn’t love a hint of dark chocolate in any baked good!
Nutmeg Powder-goes so well with my other spices for baking but can be used in cooking too, I love when one spice can be used in so many ways
Cayenne Powder- to add a little extra kick when I do decide to cook!
Nutmeg Nanny says
What a fun and spicy (hehe) giveaway 🙂
My mix would be named “Flavors for the Nutmeg”
– Organic Chia Seeds
– Organic Cacao Nibs
– Organic Cardamom Pods
– Organic Lavender
– Organic Saigon Cinnamon Powder
– Himalayan Pink Salt
Coco and Isa says
Organic Sweets
Organic vanilla beans
Organic lavender
Organic cocoa nibs
Organic rosemary
Organic cinnamon sticks
Sondra Ives says
I would love some of these spices. I have chosen Adobo Lime Rub; Cumin; Chipolte Chili Powder; Italian Spice Blend; Salt Free Steak Rub; and Vanilla Extract. The first 3 I chose because I live in Texas where Mexican food is a #1 choice. My husband loves to dip bread in the Italian Spices & Olive oil. The Salt Free Steak Rub because it sounded good. And Vanilla because I also love to bake. Really it was hard to narrow down my choices. Sondra
Heather S says
What a great site!
My spice set would be name: A Little bit of this and a little bit of that
and it includes:
1. Madagascar Vanilla Beans
2. Crystallized Ginger
3. Green Peppercorns
4. Pacific Sea Smoked Salt
5. Sweet Basil
6. Smoked Paprika
Jessica says
I love spice in my food and lots of flavor in my baking so I would choose : Red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, chili powder, nutmeg, ginger, and vanilla extract.
I would name my set Spiciest Spices.
Elizabeth says
This is fun! Berbere (love middle eastern food), Cardamom pods (great in tea), hickory salt (lovely flavor), Madras Curry (yum), Saffron (so rare), sweet curry powder (so I can adjust the spice).
Paradai says
Organic saigon cinnamon powder, Nutmeg powder, Madagascar vanilla beans, garlic flakes, Fleur de Sel, and Coarse sea salt.
Most the spices I have chose are excellent for baking which I love, love, love to do. About 75% of my baking involves cinnamon in some way. I chose Fleur de Sel because I heard it was excellent for making caramels.
The garlic flakes is a staple with my family. We love to make garlic chicken or pork chops. And sea salt is always just necessary for a pantry
Gwen~healthymamma says
Oooo-La-La! What a nice splurge some new spices would be.
I would love:
1. Berbere- for African stews and lamb rubs
2. Manzanillo Mexican Seasoning to kick up my boring tacos and for whole roasted Chicken
3. Mulato Chile- for Mole and Mexican iced coffee, both of which I’ve been dying to make
4. Guajillo Chile- because Mamma likes it spicey but the kids are wimps
5. Zahtar- because now I have to try the Roasted Carrots with Zahtar and Feta!
6. Paella Seasoning- For EMERGENCY Paella cravings!
Damn. Was that 6 already?!
PICK ME! MAMMA NEEDS SOME SPICE IN HER LIFE! 😉
Heather Lindberg says
If I won, I’d get the Garam Marsala, because I’ve never had a recipe that called for Garam Marsala that didn’t turn out AMAZING, but making my own is a hassle.
I’d get the 18 spice Chicken rub because we eat a lot of chicken and I’m always looking for ways to make it interesting, and it looks like a great mix.
The Tunisian Five Spice looks incredible and I love how it is supposed to pair with some of our favorite vegetables (squash) and also chickpeas which we love.
I would buy the habanero flakes because I bought a Costco sized container of Red Pepper Flakes about 2 years ago and I don’t have the heart to throw them out even though we’re only about 1/4 through and they are losing flavor.
I would also get Habanero Hot Salt because I’ve heard good things about spicy salts and have been wanting to try them.
Lastly, I would get Cinnamon because we love to bake and make homemade applesauce.
Jennifer says
“Mother Earth’s Palette:” Korintje Cinnamon, Cardamom Seed, Nutmeg, Spanish Paprika, Garam Masala, Chinese Five Spice
Lara says
As a college student, I fantasize about what all kinds of delicious, exotic, “expensive” (for my tiny budget) spices I would love to have in my pantry one day to make fancier meals than sandwiches and cereal! Thus, I think I’d have to call mine the “Good-bye Ramen” blend:
– Mediterranean Cyprus Flake Salt
– Saffron
– Dried Rose Petals
– Ras El Hanout
– Madagascar Vanilla Beans
I’m a big fan of world cuisine. 🙂
Lara says
Oops, I forgot a sixth… Grains of Paradise sound delightful!
kate@ahealthypassion says
I would do a baking theme!
definitely vanilla beans
lavender
cinnamon
apple pie spice
ahhh anything else sweet 🙂
Michelle Thomas says
I call this spice set “Something New” because I’ve never used these spices before, but have always wanted to.
1) Saffron – I always see this spice in recipes or sometimes at specialty store, but as a poor college student, I can’t afford to spend that much on a spice.
2) Madagascar Vanilla Beans – I’ve always used extract, but I’ve heard these are much better.
3) Siagon Cinnamon – I have only heard good things about Siagon Cinnamon, but I’ve only ever used the regular kind.
4) Chipotle Powder – I loooove the flavor of chipotle, but I’ve never seen the powder anywhere!
5) Cilantro – I’ve been trying to find dried cilantro for ages now.
6) Smoked Paprika (sweet) – An old roommate of mine used paprika in everything. I was only able to try it once before she moved out, and I loved it.
natalie (the sweets life) says
I’d create a “random faves” spice collection:
saffron
lemongrass
greek seasoning
spanish paprika
burger blast
buffalo wing rub 🙂
Carly says
I would pick
curry powder (medium)
garam masala
ginger crystallized
lemongrass
saffron
turmeric powder
and call it “asian spice collection”
YUM!
Tracy says
Great giveaway! I’d name my set “The Extravagant Baker’s Pantry.”
Dried Rose Petals
Fleur de Sel
Himalayan Pink Salt
Organic Cacao Nibs
Organic Ceylon Cinnamon
Organic Lavender
I picked these spices because I don’t own any of them yet but can only imagine all of the lovely gourmet treats I could bake up using them, such as for elegant brunches, showers, and other special occasions!
chloe says
creole seasoning, southwest seasoning, lime pepper, espresso rub, smoked paprika, grains of paradise! “southern lovin”
Sara says
“Picky Eaters Spice Set”
1. Apple Pie Spice
2. Chili Powder, Hill Country HOT
3. Course Sea Salt
4. Cumin Seed, Ground
5. Bay Leaf
6. Oregano, Mediterranean
I chose these 6 spices as I cook for a picky eater. With these 6 spices I can make which ever dish I am preparing flavorful. My picky eater always says my cooking tastes better then eating out. That is the best compliment a home-chef can get =) Even though my dishes are limited to Pizza, Burritos, Hamburgers, Pasta and dessert…these 6 spices are my best friend.
Kristy says
Umm, just 6? They have lots of great ones!
Organic Flax Seed
Organic Rosemary
Organic WHole cloves
Organic Garam Masala
ORganic Ginger Root
Organic Italian Seasoning
ANd then I stopped because I was at 6 after only looking seriously at one page!
Amy says
Thanks for turning me onto Spices Inc! I had not come across them before but I will be placing an order soon! My main claim to fame is baking so most of the products will be baking related. I am anxious to try their Bourbon Vanilla Extract, the Madagascar Vanilla Beans & the vanilla powder/flavor. The powder is hard to find with good quality so I am excited to try theirs! I like to mix the powder with confectioners’ sugar when I am rolling candies or cookies in it. It gives them an unique flavor that plain conf sugar is lacking! I think I will also get their Korintje Cinnamon Powder, some Crystallized Ginger that I am always using in something that I am baking up & maybe some Arrowroot powder which I only use on rare occasions but it is hard to find! I see that they have some very neat sets of spices so I may just order one of the sets that are for baking to try out some of their other items as well as replenishing my spice rack!
Jenn says
Org Saigon Cinnamon Powder
Org Ceylon Cinnamon
Org Almond Extract
Org Garlic Pepper
Org Garlic Salt
Deep South Dry Rub
I love spices, but I’m not very experienced with using them yet, so I usually stick to the basics.
SalBug says
My spice set would be “Anything Goes”, to include:
Thyme
Oregano
Cumin
Ancho Chile Powder
Paprika
PK Riley says
“The Griller’s Paradise”
1. Jamaican Jerk Seasoning
2. Chipotle Rub
3. Moroccan Chicken Spice Rub
4. Adobo Lime Rub
5. Orgamic Saigon Cinnamon Powder
6. Australian Flake Salt
I picked these because we LOVE to grill, and I have been getting pretty tired of the same ol’ same ol’ …. These will definitely spice up (ha!) our family dinners and make entertaining guests this summer new and fresh 🙂 I usually keep a well stocked pantry, and the selection from Spices Inc. is out of this world …. we will definitely be ordering soon! <3 thanks so much for sharing Katie!
Selena says
Organic Cocoa
Organic Ground Cumin
Organic Smoked Black Peppercorns
Fleur de Sel
Himalayan Pink Salt
Organic Saigon Cinnamon Powder
These are spices (especially organic) that I can’t find in my local stores because of where I live!
me says
Ooooo spices. I love them
Because they’re exotic, and I can’t find them locally:
Garam marsala
Baharat
Tusian five spice
(I may get these anyway…)
Because they’re basics that need to be fresh and I don’t have them in my garden:
Sage
Basil
Because why not?
Pacific Sea Smoked Sea Salt
April W. says
I’d like to have:
1. organic cacoa nibs (for cookies)
2. Chipotle chili powder (burritos, tacos)
3. Vanilla extract (baking)
4. Adobo Lime rub (fish)
5. NC barbecue rub ( pork)
6. Blackened seasoning (for fish or meats)
StealthandAces says
I have a great spice cake recipe and in honor of that, my six choices are below. I always prefer to use whole spices when possible and grind them in my coffee grinder.
Baked with Love Spice Mixture
Ceylon Cinnamon Sticks 3″
Whole Nutmeg
Madagascar Vanilla Beans
Organic Whole Cloves
Cardamom Seeds
Jamaican Allspice Berries (okay, I haven’t tried this spice in my cake, but I have a hunch it would be fantastic)
Amy Bravo says
I would pick vanilla extract, adobo seasoning, hot cayenne pepper, kansas city BBQ rub, fleur de sel, and taco seasoning. I would call it “Amy’s really random seasoning set” 🙂
Mikki says
What a great site!! Love it.
I love how they had tons of great organic spices too.
I’m a huge chicken lover so I’d put together some organic spices that would make a rotisserie chicken taste yummy..
I’d name it Yummylicious..
Garlic powder, thyme, oregano, basil, and some more garlic.. I love garlic 🙂
Shari @ Chicago Cuisine Critique says
The spices are picked are the ones that immediately caught my eye. Saffron, Taco Seasoning, Adobo Lime Rub, Chipotle Honey Rub, Nutmeg Powder, and Onion Granulates. I would call this my Spanish Style Mix, as many of the spices are seasonings often found in Spanish dishes. What a fun giveaway!!!
face.847 says
There were so many wonderful spices to chose from! But I think I’d go with this mix, which could make something really delicious and fun! :0)
1. Chinese Cinnamon
2. Amchur
3. Crystalized Ginger
4. Colombo Powder
5. Spanish Saffron
face.847 says
oops! the last one got cut off-
6. Pink Peppercorns
It’s the “convince my brother to eat something new for once” spice set
Adrienne says
I love this site! Picking only six is going to be hard! My must haves would be Sweet basil and Habanero flakes. My must trys would be the Organic Saigon Cinnamon, Bourbon Vanilla Beans, Hot Curry Powder and Manzanillo Mexican Seasoning Blend.
I hope I win.
Rachel M. says
Wow, so many wonderful choices! I would choose the following:
1. Chipotle Honey Rub–because I love Chipotle flavor and I love to grill.
2. Mediterranean Dry Rub–because Mediterranean is one of my favorite ways to cook and also the love of grilling again!
3. Organic Vanilla Beans–because I’ve been wanting to make vanilla bean homemade ice cream.
4. Organic Ceylon Cinnamon–because we use cinnamon almost daily in our house, and it sounds better than the typical cheap cinnamon I buy.
5. Himalayan Pink Salt–I had this once and it was delicious!
6. Mediterranean Cyprus Flake Salt–sounds fun and interesting to use in Mediterranean cooking.
Name for it: Rachel’s Creative Kitchen Moments Set
Lisa Tomberlin says
Thank you so much for turning me on to the
Spices Inc website.
If I were a spice I would be Turmeric. I would want to be mysterious. A spice that people recognized but aren’t sure how to use. Experimental
OR I would be Cumin: I mean, really does’t every spice wish they could be cumin? So THEY could be the bottle pulled out of the spice cabinet and loved on every day instead of once a month?
OR I would be Garlic Powder. I mean I NEED to be garlic powder so I don’t go into garlic withdraws.
Or I would be Italian Seasoning. Then I would be like that pair of PJ’s that you keep in the bottom of your PJ drawer. You know the pair you pull out whenever you’re starting to feel a little bit under the weather, just like the Italian seasoning bottle when it’s time to make some pasta!
Or I would be Cinnamon because sometimes you just HAVE to have something sweet. I mean WHEN are they going to turn cinnamon rolls into something I could live on and still fit into my jeans?
Or I would be The Deep South Dry Rub because….well because I’m from the Deep South and I’m sure there is some type of critter in my freezer right now that would be PERFECT to try this one on!!
Those would be my 6 picks if I were a spice! 🙂
Lisa
Caroline says
This is SO exciting!!! Let’s see, I would choose organic almond extract (b/c a splash taste so good in pancake mix!), organic red pepper flakes (b/c we like it hot!), organic flax seed (b/c we add it to most baked goods), organic chia seeds (b/c we like to sprout), organic cocoa powder (b/c well does this one need an explanation?!), and organic tumeric poweder (b/c I’m almost out!). I hope I win! 🙂
Emily S. says
Okay, this is where it does not help to be indecisive. I think I have it though…
My six spices and flavorings are, Vanilla Powder, Tuscany Bread Dipping Seasoning, Garlic Powder, Blackened Seasoning, Tunsian Five Spice, and Italian Seasoning Powder.
I’m a baker in training, so Vanilla is the essential in any well stocked kitchen, and high quality Vanilla Powder would be the perfect addition to any sweet creation. I just recently got back from a trip to Italy and I LOVED it, and miss it terribly. The food was delectable and I have tried to recreate it, so a Tuscany Bread Dipping Seasoning would be the perfect start! As much as I love my sweets, I have a weakness for Garlic, and there can never be too much for me! Garlic Powder is like water- it is needed to survive! (haha). I love the idea of several spices coming together to make the ideal blend of flavors. Blackened Seasoning embodies that very idea. I’ve never tried Tunsian Five Spice before, but I also never turn down a chance to try something new and I’m all about the spicy combinations! Italian Seasoning Powder is the be all, end all of spice combinations. I use it so often, that I can always use more in my kitchen!
This variety of spices would be called Eclectic Eats
jc says
i would choose organic cayenne, cinnamon, basil, cilantro, and rosemary!
i’d name it j’s spice spice
Kristin says
Oops – forgot to name mine. I’d just go with “Mish Mash Mix”
Kristin says
No rhyme or reason to my selections: Ancho powder – because my husband loves spicy food, and I found a great recipe for black bean soup that calls for it, but I had to substitute because I’m having trouble finding it locally. Chipotle Honey Rub – because I LOVE chipotle and this sounds fantastic! Greek Seasoning – also sounds amazing, and has me craving some gyros right now… Lemongrass – because I’ve never cooked with it, but I could be happy just smelling it all day. Organic chia seeds – because I’ve been hearing a lot lately about what a nutritional powerhouse they are, and if all else fails, I can try growing my own pet! And last but not least, Pizza Seasoning. Because why not?
Johanna says
I would love to have organic saigon cinnamon for my famous cinnamon rolls, pink and white peppercorns for my pepper grinder, sweet curry, garam masala, and caribbean spice rub. I’d call it “Around the World”…because it seems like a global mix of delicious spices!
Amanda N says
Easy! This one is called Mexican Chili:
Cumin
Onion
Garlic
Chile con Carne (interested to try this one!)
Chipotle chile (dried)
Erin H. says
I would choose organic fennel seed, organic vanilla beans, organic cardamom pods, saffron, juniper berries, and caraway seeds. I’d call it “Trip to the City” because it’s all things I’ve wanted but can’t find at the grocery store in my small town!
amber says
I would call my spice set SUNSHINE SPICE because I know a good spice can wake up any meal. My spice set would inclued… CItrus Seasoning (who doesn’t love a little Citrus in the summer), Garlic Herb Seasoning, Madagascar Vanilla Beans (why settle for extract when you can have the whole bean), Chipotle Flakes, Organic Italian Seasoning, and Apple Pie spice! YUM!
Angelica says
wow, the selection here is really great! I would pick the adobo lime rub, the 18 spice chicken rub, the fleur de sel, saigon cinnamon, sichuan peppercorns, and the hawaiian black salt. i would call it my “adventurous mix”!
MAJERAL says
I have chosen the Mediterranean Spices, I am Italian and cook mostly Mediterranean style. This set sound like a really nice way to be sure and have whatever I need at hand. And could branch out and experiment . (Even if I am just cooking for 1)
Thank You
aimee says
I think I could pick more than 6! My 6 would be: sweet paprika, sweet curry, cardamon, granulated honey, vanilla beans, and lemon peel. I would call it the Sweet Bunch!
Thanks!
Stephanie Phelps says
My 6 would be called “A Little Bit of Everything” and include Habanero Hot Salt,Memphis Style BBQ Rib Rub,Chinese Five Spice,Himalayan Pink Salt NEW!,Madagascar Vanilla Beans,Vanilla Extract. We all love to cook our specialties at home. I love to bake while my husband and son loves to try new spicy recipes.
Lee says
Thanks for the intro to SpicesInc! I would choose cardamom powder, mace, chipotle chili powder, KC BBQ rub, Spanish Sweet Paprika, Adabo Lime Rub, and Lemon Peel. Cardamom for cookies, coffee, and Indian dishes and chipotle is hard to find in my stores. Also would love to do ribs like they do in KC. I’d call it Around the World in 7 Days Collection.
Mrsblocko says
Wow this was really hard to pick just 6!
1. crystalized ginger: I love to eat this stuff like candy!
2.Ghost chile: I’d get this one for my uncle who loves them.(yikes!)
3.Grains of paradise: I saw them on Good Eats when he was making apple pie and have wanted to give them a try.
4. Granulated Honey: We are huge fans of honey.This looks like a fun spice to play with for grilling.
5. Himalayan pink salt: I’m not sure what I’d use this for, but it’s another one of those things I’ve wanted to test out because it was so different. Plus it’s pink!
6. Nigella seed: I’ve been seeing more bread recipes that call for this as a topping. I’ve never seen it before and was curious to try it out on some flatbread.
Christopher Sorel says
oh I am just thinking about the spice for the summer BBQ season. BBQ spiced summer would contian deep south dry rub, organic garlic flakes, Malabar Black Peppercorns, Cumin Seed Powder, Hawaiian Black Salt and 18 spice chicken rub.
These will make my BBQ this summer rocking tasty
Jackie says
Saigon Cinnamon, Sweet Basil, Organic ground cumin, Medium curry powder, Saffron, Garam Masala
I use cinnamon on my banana with almond butter on an English Muffin for breakfast, and I best their cinnamon is better than the stuff I’ve been using.
My mother is Italian, and when I cook I use a lot of basil.
My BF and I love cumin, and I put it on a lot of chicken dishes. I love the way it smells when I get home from work when I use it in the crock pot all day.
Curry is one of my favorite flavors, and I want to start cooking it more!
We love paella, but I never cook it. With saffron I’ll be able to try it out.
I have never actually owned garam masala before, but I see it all the time in curry and other Indian recipes. I’d like to try it out!
Callie says
My spices would be called Callie’s-can’t-wait-for-summer-set
It would include:
1. The All American Dry Rub (b/c it isn’t summer without ribs)
2. Manzanillo Mexican Seasoning (for shrimp on the grill to go into shrimp tacos with delicious cool avocados and lime)
3. The Deep South Dry Rub (b/c I’m a Carolina girl after all)
4. South Australian Flake Salt (to put on watermelon and garden fresh tomatos–yum!)
5. Vanilla Beans (b/c once August comes and the peaches are here we’ll be whipping out that ice cream maker and peach/real vanilla ice cream is heaven)
6. Paella mix (b/c I used to live in Spain and summer’s lend themselves to late late night dinners of paella sitting around with friends and glasses of wine and loving on each other and exclaiming over the fresh seafood)
Yum, I’ve now made myself hungry.
Rita says
First, thanks for the giveaway and for turning me on to Spices Inc. I had no idea they were there and I am blown away by how reasonable the prices are! There are two things my children and I have vowed to do this summer: make more ice cream and use our wonderful charcoal grill/smoker. We were going through a divorce last summer and found little energy to enjoy each other or cook summer meals. This summer, I will be at home due to layoff and we have dubbed it our summer to reconnect. Sticking with the ice cream and grilling theme, our choices are: Madagascar vanilla beans, crystallized ginger, espresso rub, 18 spice chicken rub, salt free Thai spice, and smoky citrus salt. I have always wanted to make vanilla ice cream with real vanilla beans, but could never afford them. Spices Inc has come up with some really cool sounding rubs/spices for grilling. They should make our budget cuts of meat and chicken special. Pick Me! Thanks:)
Kristina G. says
Oh my – why have I not heard of this website before??? There are so many that I want that it’s difficult to list just six. I would get course sea salt, ancho chile powder, Jamaican jerk seasoning, cumin and blackened seasoning. I live in an area where I don’t have a huge selection of spices so it’s great to have a place where I can get those things now!
MsBrownBird says
My six would be habanero flakes, cinnamon, basil, buffalo wing, thai seasoning, and apple pie. Because I love, love, love spicy food, but I cannot resist a sweet cinnamon-y apple pie.
And really, who doesn’t love basil.
Marcella P. says
My current favorite spice set? Smoked paprika, cinnamon, coriander, nutmeg, vanilla extract and dried chiles – and I’d name it Portuguese Essentials! Thank you!
Michelle says
My 6 would be: thyme leaf, ground cumin, Habanero Chile Seasoning, Oregano, granulated garlic, and Coarse Sea Salt. These are what we generally cook with the most. We cook mostly Mexican and Caribbean type foods.
Cathy says
I went to spiceInc.com and was blown away by the wonderful selection .Its like cooking heaven.While there I looked over the selection and tried to pick things that I thought would be fun to try or where some of my favorite favors.I chose the Himalayan pink salt as it sounds delicious and has other minerals with in the salt which is a bonus .for my second choice I chose the Zahtar spice I picked this because I love middle eastern food from my time spent in Iraq and Kuwait.For my third pick I chose the Cajun rub hot heat we love Cajun flavor in my house and the heat is an added bonus.For my fourth pick I chose Sweet Tweetie we like chicken and BBQ and usually try different spice combination s or BBQ sauces sometimes making our own so this was something we really want to try this one it sounds delicious.for my fifth choice I chose Pumpkin pie spice pumpkin pie spice is a great mix for me because for one I like pumpkin pie but I also would use this in cocoa and other baking and cooking recipes.My sixth and last choice was the salt free Thai spice I chose this because for one I like Thai food but I also like the variety of spices in this particular spice and thought I might use it for different recipes as well .I am looking forward to ordering from this company soon as now that I have seen the selection I am excited for new recipe creations.
Thank you .
Chris M. says
Cumin, smoked paprika, wasabi, long pepper, lemon white pepper, and habanero hot salt. Name of my set would be “Intrigue and spice.” Thanks!
Kristi Damon says
My pantry “must haves” include: basil- love it! I put it in everything Italian plus a lot of other recipes. I love the smell, lemon pepper is a must have for broiled or grilled fish, nuts of any kind go in everything from pasta to sweet treats ( and a hand full while cooking is pretty nice, too), garlic- fresh or jarred is also necessary for so many main dishes and I’ve even fancied up some mashed potatoes with it, ginger/nutmeg/cinnamon/cloves are a staple for holiday baking. Nothing exotic in my must-haves but maybe I’ll win some 🙂
heather says
Pink Himalayan sea salt, dried New Mexico chiles, cacao nibs, asafetida, Herbes de Provence, vanilla beans — a selection that showcases my love of baking and cooking ethnic dishes.
Cheers,
*Heather*
Blake says
My spice mix? Totally Blake. Because for those who know me they would look at the spices I picked and think “Yep. That’s totally Blake.” I picked Organic Garlic Powder, Saigon Cinnamon, Organic Ground Cumin, Organic and Fair Trade Cocoa Powder, Organic Chipotle Power, and Organic Vanilla Beans. This mix creates a perfect blend of my sweet and savory needs, and hey, maybe some combinations of the two. In the end, it’s Totally Blake.
SandyN says
My 6 would be sweet basil, cinnamon, organic parsley, italian seasoning, ground black pepper, and allspice.
I like the Top 25 Spices Every Kitchen Must Have Spice Set because my spice cabinet needs a serious overhaul, and these would be a good start for me!