Essential Spices for the Beginner’s Kitchen

Putting together a spice rack is easy when you know how to begin! This handy checklist of essential spices will get you started in the right direction.  It is an interactive list, so check the items you would like to shop for and download or print!

Essential Spices

  • Bay Leaves (Terrific for adding depth of flavor to soups and sauces).
  • Basil (I prefer to use fresh over dried, but it will help in a pinch).
  • Black Pepper (Coarse Ground)
  • Cayenne Pepper (A little goes a long way).
  • Chili Powder
  • Cinnamon (Can be used in both sweet and savory recipes).
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (Most of my dishes start with a pinch!).
  • Cumin
  • Dill ( I prefer fresh, but dried is a nice backup).
  • Fine Sea Salt (a must have).
  • Granulated Garlic
  • Ground Sage
  • Hungarian Sweet Paprika
  • Minced Onion
  • Onion Powder
  • Oregano
  • Rosemary (Same note as above: fresh is best!)
  • Saffron
  • Smoked Paprika
  • Tarragon (This gives a unique anise flavor to sauces).
  • Thyme
  • Wasabi Powder
  • Whole Nutmeg

Spice Blends

  • Old Bay Seasoning
  • Cajun Seasoning

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