As a student looking to make your meals more interesting, having a variety of herbs and spices in your kitchen can help you add flavour and depth to your dishes. Here are some versatile and flavourful inexpensive herbs and spices to keep on hand:
Chili Powder
Add a kick of heat and smokiness to your meals with chilli powder. It’s perfect for spicing up chilli, tacos, soups, and even vegetables.
Curry Powder
A blend of various spices and curry powder brings warmth and complexity to dishes. Use it to create flavourful curries, and lentil soups, or spice up cauliflower and chickpeas.
Dried Basil
Dried basil is a convenient option that adds a subtly sweet and herbal flavour to pasta sauces, broths, pizzas and even pot noodles.
Cumin
Ground cumin offers a warm and earthy taste, commonly used in Mexican, Indian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. It pairs well with beans, rice, roasted vegetables, and grilled meats.
Smoked Paprika
Smoked paprika adds a rich and smoky flavour to your dishes. Use it to enhance the taste of potatoes, grilled meats, and stews, or even sprinkle it on microwaved popcorn for a unique twist.
Dried Oregano
Dried oregano is a staple herb in Mediterranean and Italian cooking. It works well in tomato-based sauces, soups, and on top of pizzas.
Garlic Powder
Garlic powder is a convenient alternative to fresh garlic, providing a savoury and slightly sweet taste. Use it in marinades, pasta sauces, stir-fries or sprinkle it on bread for quick garlic bread.
Ground Cinnamon
While often associated with sweet dishes, ground cinnamon can add warmth and depth to savoury recipes. Try adding a pinch to stews, root vegetables, or even chilli for a hint of sweetness.
Dried Parsley
Dried parsley is an easy way to add a pop of freshness to your meals. It works well in pasta dishes, soups and as a garnish.
Lemon Pepper
Lemon pepper seasoning combines zesty lemon flavour with the kick of black pepper. It’s fantastic on grilled chicken, fish or even sprinkled on top of salads.
Rosemary
Rosemary has a distinct aroma and a pine-like flavour that pairs well with meats, potatoes, salad dressings, and bread. It can also be used to infuse oils or vinegar.
Remember to start with a few essential herbs and spices and gradually build your collection based on your preferences and the cuisine you enjoy cooking. Experimenting with different flavours will help you discover new tastes and make your meals more exciting.
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