My Spice Drawer
My motto in the kitchen is simple: Whatever the recipe calls for, I double it, try it, and likely double the seasoning again! (Except salt—let’s not get crazy.) Spices are the heart and soul of my cooking, transforming even the simplest ingredients into something extraordinary. A well-stocked spice drawer isn’t just about convenience—it’s about unlocking the full potential of every dish.
Why I Love a Generous Hand with Spices
Many home cooks hesitate when it comes to seasoning, fearing they’ll overpower a dish. But I’ve found that bold flavors make all the difference. Spices add depth, warmth, and character. They bring vibrancy to otherwise bland meals and create layers of complexity that make each bite an experience. And when it comes to things like homemade cardamom cake? I want the spice to be SPICY.
The best part about seasoning? It adds incredible depth and nutrition without piling on extra fat or calories. I use a ton of frozen food in my cooking, and seasonings like these make all the difference. They turn simple ingredients into something exciting and full of flavor without needing heavy sauces or extra oil.
Plus, seasoning is about balance—something the experts in Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat explain beautifully. And let’s not forget color! I firmly believe in eating the rainbow, and spices bring that vibrancy to every dish.
My Absolutely Feral Spice Collection
I don’t just hoard spices—I use them all. My spice drawer is an ever-growing, ever-evolving collection of essentials and wildcards that keep my cooking fresh and exciting. Some of my must-haves include:
Smoked Paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness and rich color.
Cumin – Earthy, warm, and perfect for everything from soups to roasted veggies.
Garlic Powder – Because garlic is life, and fresh isn’t always an option!
Coriander – Slightly citrusy and a great way to brighten up dishes.
Cinnamon – Not just for sweets—try it in savory stews and curries.
Turmeric – A golden powerhouse for color, nutrition, and earthy depth. Great for gut health and inflammation.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – For a little heat and complexity.
Za’atar – My wildcard pick; its blend of sumac, thyme, and sesame is a game-changer. It’s incredible in Greek-inspired dishes—I mix it with Greek yogurt and lemon, coat chicken in it, and it tastes like restaurant-quality chicken without added fat or calories.
Cardamom – Sweet, floral, and a non-negotiable for next-level baking. Also great for digestion!
Curry Powder – A staple in my kitchen for adding warmth and depth to everything from soups to roasted vegetables. Contains turmeric and other spices that support gut health.
Garam Masala – A beautifully complex spice blend that elevates Indian-inspired dishes.
Anise Seeds – These tiny seeds pack a sweet, slightly licorice-like flavor that adds a wonderful depth to Italian dishes. I love using them in homemade sauces and italian dishes. They also support digestion and may help with bloating.
Ginger – Whether fresh or dried, its warm, slightly spicy kick makes it a go-to for both sweet and savory dishes. It’s also an incredible anti-inflammatory and digestive aid.
Fresh Herbs (or Dried in a Pinch) – I use parsley and cilantro in almost everything. Fresh is amazing, but dried versions still bring plenty of flavor when fresh isn’t available. Cilantro is known to help detox heavy metals, and parsley is packed with vitamin C.
How I Season with Confidence
Taste as I Go – Flavors develop over time, and I adjust accordingly.
Layer My Seasoning – Adding spices at different stages enhances depth.
Use My Nose – If it smells amazing, it’s probably going to taste amazing!
Experiment Fearlessly – Some of my favorite combinations happened by accident.
The Joy of a Fully Loaded Spice Drawer
A well-stocked spice drawer means I can bring global flavors into my kitchen any night of the week. With the right seasonings, I can take a basic chicken breast to India with garam masala, Morocco with ras el hanout, or Mexico with ancho chili powder.
So, if you’ve ever hesitated with that extra pinch of spice—don’t! Be bold, season generously, and watch your cooking transform.