Pantry Picks- Unlocking the Secrets of Everyday Ingredients

By Glicky Eizikovitz

 

Spices

Spices are the spark that transforms meals into masterpieces! They’re dried seeds, fruits, roots, or bark used to flavor, color, and preserve food, and they add depth, warmth, and aroma to dishes. From cinnamon’s warmth to chili pepper’s fiery kick, spices are the ultimate culinary companions. With centuries of history and global influence, spices can elevate any meal. They all possess remarkable healing properties, packed with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and natural remedies that have been harnessed for centuries to promote well-being and vitality. Let’s dive into the world of spices over the next two weeks, focusing first on the staples that are commonly found in every pantry—the ones that add flavor and flair to our favorite dishes.

 

 

 

 

Cumin

This warm, earthy superstar adds depth and warmth to dishes, and its versatility knows no bounds. From Mediterranean falafel, shakshuka, fish dishes, and flavorful dips to various other recipes, cumin pops the flavor and brings dishes to life. Plus, it’s packed with potential health benefits, like aiding digestion, boosting immunity, and acting as a natural blood thinner. Cumin is also a good source of essential nutrients, including vitamin B, magnesium, and other vital minerals.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Did you know?

It’s recommended to avoid cumin before surgery since it may act as a blood thinner.

 

 

 

 

Pepper

Black pepper, a culinary staple, brings a distinctive kick to every dish with its signature piperine heat. This flowering vine’s peppercorns aren’t just about adding flavor—they’re rich in          antioxidants, vitamin K, and manganese, and may even help alleviate constipation and insomnia. Black pepper elevates savory dishes and adds depth to recipes. Vietnam, the world’s largest producer, showcases its global impact.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Did You Know?

Trader Joe’s also sells the best working whole black peppercorns with built-in grinders for just $2.49? the packs come with refillable grinders, making them ridiculously convenient and super cost-effective! Talk about a steal!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Did you know?

The difference between white pepper and black pepper lies in their processing method and flavor profile. Black pepper comes from unripe green peppercorns that are dried with their outer shell intact, giving it a sharp, pungent flavor. White pepper, on the other hand, is made from ripe peppercorns with the outer shell removed, resulting in a milder, more delicate taste. This difference

in processing affects their flavor, aroma, and usage in cooking.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a wonderful spice that adds warmth and depth to many dishes. With its sweet flavor, it enhances oatmeal, baked goods, and fruit salads while bringing cozy charm to warm drinks like apple cider and hot chocolate. Sprinkle a pinch into your favorite drinks and dishes for a delicious boost. Plus, rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon offers potential health benefits, including lowering blood sugar levels and reducing inflammation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Paprika

Paprika is the most used spice in many kitchens! Made from ground, dried sweet or bell peppers, this vibrant powder adds a pop of color and flavor to dishes. Often used in stews, soups, and as a garnish, paprika is a staple in Hungarian cooking. Rich in vitamins A, E, and B6, paprika also boasts potential health benefits like anti-cancer properties and anti-inflammatory effects, making it a nutritious and flavorful addition to recipes. From sweet and mild to smoky and spicy, paprika’s versatility makes it a must-have in your spice rack!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Garlic powder

Garlic powder is a staple spice in every kitchen, made by dehydrating and grinding garlic cloves. It’s used to add flavor to meats, poultry, and almost everything, and it’s a convenient alternative to fresh garlic. Garlic powder offers potential health benefits. It supports cardiovascular health, possesses antimicrobial properties, and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It may also provide immune system support, making it a valuable addition to meals. Interestingly, adding garlic powder to certain dishes like cholent and cooking it for extended periods, such as 24 hours, can alter the flavor profile, potentially resulting in a sour taste.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Onion powder

Onion powder is a kitchen essential! Made by drying and grinding onions, this flavorful powder adds depth to meats, poultry, and just about any dish. A convenient shortcut to fresh onions, onion powder also packs potential health benefits, including digestive support, antimicrobial powers, and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Plus, it may boost immunity, making it a tasty and valuable addition to your culinary creations. Sprinkle a little onion powder on your tuna salad to give it an extra boost of flavor—it’ll oomph it up!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ginger

Ginger is a versatile spice with a rich history in culinary and medicinal traditions. It adds warmth and depth to dishes, from classic Chinese stir-fries to sweet baked goods. Ginger is known for its potential health benefits, including digestive aid and relief from nausea, anti-inflammatory properties, and antioxidants. It’s also known to help soothe cold and flu symptoms, making it a

staple in many kitchens and wellness routines.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basil

Dried basil has a bright aroma and slightly sweet taste profile, with hints of warmth and depth. Its flavor is often described as fresh and aromatic, adding complexity to various dishes. To produce dried basil, fresh basil leaves are harvested, cleaned, and dried using methods like air drying or dehydration. This process concentrates the herb’s natural oils and flavor compounds, resulting in a more intense taste experience. Basil is also associated with potential health benefits like stress relief, cognitive function support, and anti-anxiety effects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oregano

Dried oregano has a robust, earthy, and slightly bitter taste profile. Its warm, aromatic quality adds depth and complexity to dishes like pasta sauces, pizzas, roasted vegetables, and Greek salads. Oregano is also packed with antioxidants and boasts potential health benefits like antimicrobial properties, digestive support, and anti-inflammatory powers. It may also support respiratory health and exhibits antifungal properties, making it a valuable addition to your spice collection.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rosemary

Dried rosemary is a potent herb with a piney, aromatic flavor that adds a Mediterranean touch to your dishes. Made by drying fresh rosemary leaves, it concentrates its natural oils and flavor compounds. Use it sparingly to add depth and complexity to roasted meats, veggies, soups, stews, and bread. Rosemary also offers potential health benefits like antioxidant properties, anti-cancer properties, improved cognitive function, and digestive support. A little goes a long way, so start with a pinch and adjust to taste.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Popular spice blends

 

 

Cayenne pepper

This spice adds a bold kick to any dish that needs a little excitement. With its pungent heat and flavor, cayenne pepper brings the fire. And the benefits don’t stop there! Cayenne pepper is believed to have potential health perks, including anti-inflammatory properties, antioxidant effects, and possible benefits for digestion, circulation, and arthritis relief. Spice up your life with a dash of cayenne—sprinkle some on eggs or add a kick to your favorite salad dressings.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Montreal steak spice

Montreal steak spice is a popular seasoning blend known for its bold, savory flavor. This mix of spices, typically featuring black pepper, coriander, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dill weed, adds depth and complexity to various dishes. It’s often used to season steaks, burgers, roasts, vegetables, and seafood, bringing flavor to grilled, pan-seared, or oven-roasted meals. Its versatility has made it a staple in many kitchens.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pumpkin spice

Pumpkin spice is a delightful blend of warm, aromatic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This quintessential fall flavor combination is a staple in many seasonal treats, evoking feelings of coziness and nostalgia. Whether in lattes, baked goods, or pies, pumpkin spice brings warmth and joy to the fall season.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Did you know?

Some spices can lose potency and flavor within six months, especially if exposed to heat, light, or air. For optimal flavor, consider replacing your spices every six months to a year, depending on storage conditions and usage.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Quick-and-Easy Matbucha

I love matbucha, but it can take time to char all the veggies. This recipe is quick and easy, and it tastes amazing.

 

Yield: 4 servings

 

Ingredients:

½ cup oil, divided

1 large red pepper, diced

2 tablespoons diced jalapeño pepper

1 large tomato, peeled and diced

6 cloves garlic, chopped

2 tablespoons paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

¼ teaspoon sugar

2 tablespoons chopped parsley

 

Directions:

In a skillet, heat ¼ cup oil over high heat.

Sauté red pepper and jalapeño for 2 minutes.

Add tomato and garlic, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and reduced.

Use a masher to mash down all vegetables.

In a bowl, mix paprika, salt, pepper, sugar, and remaining oil.

Pour paprika mixture over matbucha.

Add chopped parsley and mix well.

Refrigerate and enjoy!