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Common Herbs and Spices
For Your Kitchen Cabinet
In years past entire wars were fought
over exotic spices. Trade routes were carefully guarded, beset by
pirates and defended by soldiers. Some kitchen herbs were so
valuable they were kept
under lock and key.
Today even the most rare of spices can usually be found at the corner
market or a few clicks away on the internet.
But not everyone is so captivated by spices.
I once had to give a friend of mine a baggie of salt because she had
nothing in her kitchen.
Nothing.
No salt or pepper and only one pot (for the boil-in-bags).
In her defense, a large spice
collection is usually a thing of pride for cooks.
It can take time and money to build
up a large collection of unique herbs and exotic spices. But
there are a few
basic ones you might want to have around just in case.
A few select herbs and spices also make nice housewarming gifts.
If you are stocking a new spice
cabinet, or just looking to round out your inventory, here are a few
common herbs
and spices you may wish to have on hand in your kitchen.
The Basics
Salt
One of the most common minerals on earth
and a basic kitchen
staple. It is sold either granulated or as rock salt.
They come in round paper containers, usually with a spout on top.
Go for the basic round container first.
Most salts sold today have iodine added to them and are labeled as
"iodized salt". It is added to prevent iodide deficiency.
Normally sea salt is left as is and does not have added iodine.
Either is fine to use.
Pepper
The fruit of a tropical vine.
Peppercorns are either put into a
grinder, or can be bought already ground in tins or shakers.
Salt and pepper is often sold together as sets in everything from
simple sets to elaborate matching grinders or salt and pepper
shaker sets in any theme imaginable.
These two are probably the most common of kitchen spices so feel free
to invest in a nice set of shakers if you plan on cooking.
If you don't plan on cooking a lot, you can at least save a few packets
from your favorite fast food restaurant for emergencies.
Spice Blends
A blend of spices is a quick,
inexpensive way to add flavor to your
food and sauces. They save you money and time because they've
already measured out the perfect herbs and mixed them together for you.
Some popular spice blends are; Italian, Greek,
Spanish, steak spice, chicken seasoning, lemon pepper and salt-free
blends.
Bouquet Garni
Bouquet garni is a blend of a few
specific herbs; bay leaf, thyme, parsley and marjoram are the basics,
although some mixes also add oregano and other herbs.
It is
usually sold in a small bundle, wrapped up in the bay leaf and tied
with string. These are handy for throwing into stews and soups
for a nice boost of flavor.
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