The Flavor Factor

Okay, now I have to tell on myself.  I'm a foodie by nature and I have quite the spice selection in my kitchen.  Probably 15 years ago, my hubby built an easily accessible spice rack to accommodate all of those bottles.  I keep them alphabetized so they are easy to find when I need them.  The bottom row is tall enough for my bottles of vinegar and a jug of vegetable oil.  

I love to experiment with different flavors, and several years I found a few recipes for flavor blends.  Just combine the ingredients in an airtight container, shake well, and keep in a cool place away from direct sunlight up to six months.

Japanese 7 Spice

2 Tbsp dried orange peel            2 tsp ground black pepper

4 tsp garlic powder                     1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

2 tsp salt                                      2 tsp black sesame seeds

2 tsp toasted sesame seeds

This is a citrusy blend that pairs well with poultry and fish.  

Tuscan Garlic Herb Mix

2 Tbsp dried rosemary

2 Tbsp dried thyme

4 tsp fennel seeds

4 tsp garlic powder

2 tsp dried marjoram

1 tsp dried sage

This Italian-style mix goes with anything containing tomatoes or cheeses like mozzarella or ricotta.  

Moroccan Mix

2 Tbsp ground turmeric

1 Tbsp ground cumin

1 Tbsp ground coriander

2 tsp paprika

2 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp dried thyme

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

These are warming spices often used in Moroccan cuisine.  Try a sprinkle over roasted veggies or in a dip.  

Mexican Chile-Cocoa Spice

2 Tbsp ancho chile powder

2 Tbsp smoked paprika

1 Tbsp ground cumin

2 tsp dried Mexican oregano

2 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder

1 tsp ground black pepper

Mexican cuisine is skilled at balancing sweetness and heat.  Slightly citrusy Mexican oregano serves as a bridge between those two profiles.  This can be used in Chili, desserts, Mexican hot chocolate and many other recipes.

Scandinavian Lemon Spice

2 Tbsp dried dill weed

2 Tbsp dried tarragon

2 tsp dried lemon peel

2 tsp onion powder

1 tsp caraway seeds

1 tsp ground black pepper

Refreshing lemon, dill and tarragon are combined with caraway seeds for a flicker of cooling sweetness.

Enjoy!