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5 Spices Every Kitchen Should Have (Besides Salt and Pepper)
If you're someone who loves to cook (or even just dabble in the kitchen), you know that having the right spices can take your dishes from bland to grand. Sure, salt and pepper are kitchen essentials, but there are a handful of other spices that should be just as common in your spice rack. These five will enhance your cooking and open up a world of flavor in your meals. Let’s dive into the five spices I believe every kitchen should have!
Granulated Garlic
Who doesn’t love garlic? The fragrance, the flavor—it’s a game-changer in any dish. But let’s face it: peeling and mincing fresh garlic can sometimes be a pain. That’s where granulated garlic comes in. It’s a great substitute when you’re in a pinch, and it’s super versatile, making it perfect for seasoning meats, veggies, sauces, and even spice blends.Now, I’m going to say something controversial: never use jarlic (garlic in a jar). Granulated garlic offers better flavor potency and texture than garlic powder, which tends to clump up. Bonus points if you can get your hands on Roasted Garlic Powder. It adds even more depth to your dishes.
Lemon Pepper
Lemon pepper has become my go-to when a recipe calls for black pepper. It brings that little extra pop of acidity from dried lemon peel, brightening up everything from steaks and fish to roasted veggies. Why settle for just pepper when you can have a beautiful balance of peppery heat with the zing of lemon?
Pro Tip: Look for lemon pepper that doesn’t include any salt to control the salt level in your dish more precisely. Always check the ingredients label, and if there’s salt, make sure to adjust your recipe accordingly. My absolute favorite is Frontier Co-op Lemon Pepper.
Cumin
Cumin is an incredibly versatile spices that adds a unique, earthy depth to so many dishes. It’s a common ingredient in Latin American, Mediterranean, and South Asian cuisines, bringing balance to bold and acidic flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. For even more flavor, try toasting whole cumin seeds in a dry pan for a few minutes before grinding them into a powder. The smell alone will have you hooked!
Oregano
Oregano is often associated with pizza, but this herb is far more versatile than that! It's perfect for Mediterranean and Mexican dishes, adding a fragrant herbal earthiness that balances out the acidity in dishes like Greek lemon chicken or Italian tomato sauces. I always seem to run out of oregano because I love the depth it adds to so many of my go-to recipes. It’s a must-have in your kitchen!
Kosher and Flaky Sea Salt
The type of salt you use can really make a difference in your cooking. While kosher salt is the kitchen all-star for its larger texture and ability to season food with precision, flaky sea salt is where you take things to the next level. For everyday cooking, I recommend Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt—it’s affordable and easy to use. But for those moments when you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some Maldon Flaky Salt on your dishes for that extra touch of perfection. It’s great for finishing off meats or even adding a hint of salty goodness to desserts like cookies or brownies.
Seasonings... Greetings
With these five spices in your kitchen, you'll be ready to take your cooking to the next level. Whether you're adding depth with cumin or a burst of brightness with lemon pepper, these spices will help elevate your meals and make your kitchen feel like a gourmet haven. Happy cooking!
Written by Chef Will