11 Spices You Should Start Cooking With (and How to Use Them)
These 11 spices will add tons of flavor to your cooking and make your dishes more exciting. From cumin to paprika, each spice has its own unique taste and can be used in different types of recipes. Learn how to use them, and you’ll make your meals even better.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a warm, sweet spice that adds a cozy flavor to many dishes and desserts. Try using it in cinnamon roll muffins for a delicious treat that will make your kitchen smell amazing. Get the recipe: Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Saffron
Saffron is a bright yellow spice that comes from the flower of the saffron crocus and is known for its unique flavor and aroma. It is great in vegan Spanish paella because it gives the dish a rich taste and a beautiful golden color, making it look and taste delicious. Get the recipe: Vegan Spanish Paella
Turmeric
Turmeric is a bright yellow spice with a warm, earthy flavor that’s known for its health benefits and vibrant color. It is added to this chicken wild rice soup for a comforting dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Get the recipe: Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Paprika
Paprika is a versatile spice made from ground red peppers, offering a sweet and smoky flavor that can range from mild to spicy. Try it in a spicy dipping sauce to give your snacks an extra kick and delicious taste. Get the recipe: Spicy Dipping Sauce
Black Pepper
Black pepper is a common spice that adds a sharp and slightly spicy flavor to many dishes. Using it in the homemade Caesar dressing gives it the classic taste that everyone loves. Get the recipe: Homemade Caesar Dressing
Garlic Powder
Garlic powder is a flavorful spice that brings a savory kick to dishes. Use it in a chicken broccoli bake, mixed with a cream cheese mixture, to season the dish perfectly without using any canned soup. Get the recipe: Chicken Broccoli Bake
Ginger
Ginger is a zesty spice known for its warm, slightly sweet flavor and aroma, often used in both savory and sweet dishes. Try it in these chewy almond flour ginger cookies for a delightful treat that perfectly blends soft texture with a spicy kick. Get the recipe: Almond Flour Ginger Cookies
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is a hot spice that adds a fiery kick to any dish, balancing sweetness with its bold heat. Use it in spicy candied pecans for a tasty snack that combines sweet and spicy flavors in every bite. Get the recipe: Spicy Candied Pecans
Cloves
Cloves are a spice with a strong, sweet flavor that comes from dried flower buds. They are perfect in carrot cake because they add a warm, spicy taste that makes the cake even more delicious and pairs well with the sweetness of the carrots. Get the recipe: Carrot Cake with Chai Spice Frosting
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is a spice that has a warm, slightly sweet flavor and is often used in cooking and baking. It’s perfect in béchamel sauce because it adds a tasty kick and makes the creamy sauce even more flavorful, which is great for dishes like lasagna and macaroni and cheese. Get the recipe: How to make Béchamel sauce
Cumin
Cumin is a spicy, earthy herb that adds a rich flavor to dishes, especially in Mexican and Indian cuisine. It’s a key ingredient in homemade taco seasoning, giving your tacos that authentic taste everyone loves. Get the recipe: Homemade Taco Seasoning
