• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Season & Thyme
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipe Index
  • About Me
  • Social
  • Subscribe
  • Spring Recipes
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipe Index
  • About Me
  • Social
  • Subscribe
  • Spring Recipes
×
  • Featured picture of bowl of elotes chicken salad.
    Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad
  • up close of plate of seasoned chicken thighs.
    Homemade Nando's Chicken Thighs
  • bowl of crockpot southwest chicken with toppings.
    Crockpot Southwest Chicken
  • serving of chicken,mushroom, asparagus skillet in a bowl.
    One Pan Chicken with Mushroom and Asparagus
  • Garlic and Herb Roast Chicken
  • featured image for slow cooker venison roast shown up close on a white plate.
    Slow Cooker Venison Roast
  • parmesan garlic chicken thighs on a plate up close.
    Parmesan Garlic Chicken Thighs
  • featured image for pickle roll ups.
    Pickle Roll-ups
  • up close of sliced pork tenderloin.
    Cast Iron Pork Tenderloin
  • featured image for elote pasta salad.
    Elote Pasta Salad
  • Featured picture of olive garden stuffed chicken marsala.
    Olive Garden Stuffed Chicken Marsala
  • Featured photo of cooked venison jerky.
    Homemade Venison Jerky
Home » All Recipes

Essential Kitchen Spices: Basic Spices and Herbs and How to Store Them

Published: Aug 10, 2021 · Modified: May 16, 2024 by Sarah Baumeister · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Something I am passionate about as a home cook is creating a pantry that holds staples to make creating easy and stress-free. When you have a well stocked pantry/freezer/fridge, not only does it make cooking a meal without going to the store more viable, but it also helps the ones creative juices to flow more easily. An important element of a well stocked pantry is a well stocked spice cabinet full of essential kitchen spices and herbs! I'm going to share my top spice picks that are versatile and will hopefully be well loved in your kitchen.

six classic spices in glass jars on a metal dish

This spice list is not comprehensive, as every kitchen and cook will vary based on preferences, culture, and availability. Your kitchen may lean more towards asians spices, mexican spices, indian spices, etc. While there are countless other (amazing!) spices, this is a great base to have, that will allow you to create a wide variety of recipes. If you found this list of spices and their uses helpful, please feel free to share to whomever you think would benefit!

Jump to:
  • Storage
  • Can you freeze spices
  • Do spices go bad?
  • Where to buy
  • Spice Fast Facts: Just for fun
  • A Word on Spice Blends
  • Garlic Powder
  • Onion Powder
  • Cumin
  • Cinnamon
  • Whole Black Peppercorns
  • Thyme
  • Rosemary
  • Chili Powder
  • Paprika
  • Nutmeg
  • Oregano
  • Red Pepper Flakes

Storage

First things first, knowing how to store your spice collection is important because there are several factors that go into it, light, temperature, and moisture.

  • Light: You want to to keep your spices out of bright direct light, no sunshine for those guys! A cabinet or pantry works great. Labels that cover the entire jar are also beneficial at blocking out light.
  • Temperature: Most home temperatures (68-75 degrees) should be just fine. You just don't want the spices getting too warm.
  • Moisture: Keep the spices as dry as possible. This means an airtight jar and away from humidity. When spices become moist, they often clump together.

Can you freeze spices

You can, but this will not prolong their shelf life and it is unnecessary. It is better to store spices in a cool, dry place and out of direct light.

kitchen spices and herbs in glass jars and on wooden spoons placed decoratively on a whtie marble slab

Do spices go bad?

Spices generally do not go bad, as much as they begin to lose their flavor and potency. It is best to buy enough for 6 months of use, for the most flavor and least chance of compromise.

I totally am guilty of keeping spices way longer than that (think years), so if you are wondering if a spice is still good, smell it and see if the aroma is still strong. If yes, the spice is fine to use as is. If not, you may want to use a little extra for that recipe and then restock that spice or herb when you are able.

If you have whole spices, like cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, etc., they will stay potent much longer. You will have years before you see a marked decrease in quality.

Where to buy

Knowing where to buy quality spices is important. Spices and herbs can vary a lot in price depending on the variety and brand. Most grocery stores carry the brand Simply Organic spices and I find these to be good quality and accessible to most homes. You can also purchase them online.

Another great option is Spice House.

essential spices in glass jars placed decoratively on a white marble slab

Spice Fast Facts: Just for fun

Saffron is one of the most expensive spices. Saffron is the most expensive spice by weight, about 73 dollars an ounce. This makes saffron more expensive than gold, by ounce. The reason for this, is the laborious harvesting process.

Turmeric is often used as a natural dye, both for foods and other goods. You may see it in some common jarred items like pickles!

Two of the wise men in the Bible gave the gift of spices to baby Jesus, as spices were thought of as great value and a gift fitting of a king. Matthew 2:2 and 11b, "After Jesus had been born in Bethʹle·hem of Ju·deʹa in the days of Herod the king, look! astrologers from the East came to Jerusalem," 11b "They also opened their treasures and presented him with gifts—gold and frankincense and myrrh. "

A Word on Spice Blends

I feel spice blends have gotten a bad rap over the years for being "less than" or a cop out. This does not have to be the case! While it is true that some spice blends are lower quality ingredients or full of salt, there are also some great ones out there. Look for blends without added preservatives and if salt is high on the list, simply use less salt or completely omit when you are completing whatever recipe it is that you are making!

One of my favorite spice blends is Bragg Sprinkle 24 Herbs and Spice Blend. Try this homemade taco spice blend that I used to make a Copycat Red Robin Chicken Ensenada Platter.

Garlic Powder

garlic powder in a glass jar with a wooden spoon placed at an angle in front on a white marble cutting board

The first on the list of essential kitchen spices-- garlic powder. Garlic is great fresh, but having powder on hand is a great way to add extra garlic flavor in a pinch, as well as use as a base to countless other spice blends. Garlic is versatile and used across many cultures-- from Italian to Chinese to Mexican and many in between. Try it in soups, sauces, and dips!

Garlic powder vs. garlic: Garlic powder is simply garlic bulbs that have been peeled, dehydrated, and then made into a powder using a machine or by hand. Dried garlic is a stronger flavor, so you will need less of it by weight than fresh garlic. Garlic salt is garlic powder and salt mixed together in various ratios and granulated garlic is larger pieces of garlic than garlic powder, but otherwise the same product.

Recipes that use garlic powder

  • sourdough breadsticks featured
    Garlic Butter Sourdough Breadsticks
  • steak gorgonzola with alfredo sauce plated on a white plate and drizzled with a balsamic reduction
    Olive Garden Steak Gorgonzola
  • elote bowl final product.
    Elote Bowl
  • slow cooker beef sandwiches featured
    Slow Cooker Pulled Beef Sandwiches

Onion Powder

onion powder in a glass jar with a wooden spoon placed at an angle in front on a white marble cutting board

Like garlic powder, onion powder is a peeled and dehydrated onion that has been made into powdered form using a machine or by hand. I find onion powder to be welcome in almost any savory dish, and I always keep a decent amount on hand. Onion powder has the texture and look of fine sand and it can easily add richness to any dish. Try it in hamburgers, soups, and meat fillings.

Recipes that use onion powder

  • avocado lime dressing featured
    Chick Fil A Copycat Avocado Lime Ranch Dressing
  • instant pot chicken enchilada soup featured
    Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
  • bbq coated pork loin in instant pot.
    BBQ Shredded Pork Loin Instant Pot

Cumin

ground cumin in a glass jar with a wooden spoon placed at an angle in front on a white marble cutting board

Cumin is an ancient spice, and has been around for thousands of years in mediterranean and middle eastern cultures. Many of us will most notably see it used in Mexican cooking, cumin is woodsy and spicy, without heat. Cumin is strong and bold, and really adds a richness to whatever it has been added too. Cumin is one of those spices that really can't be substituted and its a true kitchen staple. Try it in stuffed peppers, salsa, or chicken enchiladas.

Recipes that use cumin powder

  • bowl of finished mango corn salsa with a spoon and lime wedges.
    Mango Corn Salsa
  • small green bowl filled with homemade mojo marinade.
    Homemade Mojo Marinade
  • finished red enchiladas with cilantro on top.
    Shredded Chicken Enchiladas with Red Sauce

Cinnamon

ground cinnamon in a glass jar with a wooden spoon placed at an angle in front on a white marble cutting board

Sticks or ground, cinnamon is a staple in pretty much everyone's kitchen. With it's warm, sweet scent, cinnamon is a signature fall flavor that is used in countless baked goods and autumn beverages. For something a little different, try adding a pinch to your next chili!

Recipes that use ground cinnamon

  • unsweetened homemade applesauce in a dutch oven.
    Homemade Unsweetened Applesauce (no sugar added)
  • one apple cider muffin on a wooden cutting board with apples in the background.
    Apple Cider Muffins
  • carrot cake featured
    Paula Deen's Carrot Cake
  • smores macarons all stacked close.
    S'mores Macarons (With Step-by-Step Instructions)

Whole Black Peppercorns

whole peppercorns in a glass jar with a wooden spoon placed at an angle in front on a white marble cutting board

You truly can't find more essential kitchen spices than salt and pepper (salt isn't a spice, but you catch my drift!). Salt and pepper seem to go together like macaroni and cheese, milk and cookies, Bert and Ernie, but truly-- pepper is a special spice all its own. Pepper that has been fresh ground is much superior in flavor to anything pre ground that you would find next to the salt shaker. Add it to cream sauces and pasta for a delicious, spicy bite!

Recipes that use black pepper

  • img 0814
    Crusted Chicken Romano
  • biscuits and gravy featured
    Homemade Biscuits with Sausage Gravy
  • orecchiette pasta with baby chicken meatballs plated
    Orecchiette with Baby Chicken Meatballs
  • strawberry baby lettuce salad featured
    Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad

Thyme

dried thyme in a glass jar with a wooden spoon placed at an angle in front on a white marble cutting board

Part of the mint family, there are hundreds of varieties of thyme (around 350!). With a woody stem and tiny little leaves, this herb is often coupled with rosemary, but stands very well on its own. A very adaptable flavor, thyme can be used on almost anything. Try it next on roast chicken!

Recipes that use dried thyme

  • mushroom ravioli featured
    Olive Garden Ravioli di Portobello
  • chicken and dumplings in a bowl with dutch oven in the background.
    Dutch Oven Chicken and Dumplings
  • bowl of chicken gnocchi soup in front of a crock pot.
    Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup
  • pork tenderloin cream sauce featured
    Cast Iron Pork Loin with Gravy

Rosemary

dried rosemary in a glass jar with a wooden spoon placed at an angle in front on a white marble cutting board

Rosemary closely resembles an evergreen branch and is a member of the mint family. For kitchen uses, it is often seen in stuffing or as part of a bouquet garni. A sprig of rosemary is very fragrant and will infuse whatever it is that you are cooking with an aroma that is warm and inviting. Try it with your next pork roast or on roasted potatoes.

Recipes that use dried rosemary

  • chicken veronese featured
    Olive Garden Chicken Veronese
  • bowl of chicken noodle soup
    Classic Chicken Noodle Soup with Reames Noodles
  • close up of bown of brone broth chicken soup.
    Bone Broth Chicken Soup
  • bourbon brown sugar marinade featured
    Bourbon Brown Sugar Marinade

Chili Powder

chili powder in a glass jar with a wooden spoon placed at an angle in front on a white marble cutting board

A hot-tasting spice, chili powder is made from ground red chilis and sometimes other flavors like cumin and garlic are added. Often added to chilis and rib rubs, chili powder can vary in flavor from brand to brand-- find one that you like the level of heat and undertones!

Recipes that use chili powder

  • cauliflower spanish rice in bowl.
    Spanish Cauliflower Rice with Olives
  • seasoned chicken breasts topped with salsa on a bed of salad.
    Red Robin Copycat Ensenada Chicken Platter
  • plating suggestion of chicken stuffed poblanos with citrus garnish
    Spicy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Paprika

smoked paprika in a glass jar with a wooden spoon placed at an angle in front on a white marble cutting board

Smoked or regular, paprika is an important spice in any home kitchen. Like Chili powder, paprika is made from red chilis, although these chilis tend to be milder and longer with a thinner flesh. Often used in hungarian cooking (think goulash) as well as spanish cooking. A great alternative to chili powder or cayenne if you prefer less heat.

Recipes that use paprika

  • gumbo with white rice on top.
    Easy Slow Cooker Gumbo Recipe
  • close up of bowl of african stew with rice and a wooden spoon.
    African Beef Stew Instant Pot
  • chicken in yogurt marinade
    Greek Yogurt Chicken Marinade
  • nandos spicy rice featured
    Nando's Spicy Rice (PERi PERi Rice Recipe)

Nutmeg

ground nutmeg in a glass jar with a wooden spoon placed at an angle in front on a white marble cutting board

Nutmeg can be purchased whole or ground. When it is whole, it is about the size of a small acorn. Often used in pairing with cinnamon, nutmeg gives a delightful woody, slightly sweet flavor to dishes. It is a "quintessential" fall spice, used in cakes, warm drinks, and pies. Nutmeg is always great in savory dishes. Try a small pinch in your next cream sauce, to add an extra layer of flavor.

Recipes that use nutmeg

  • overhead shot of bowl full of potbelly chicken pot pie soup with pie crust on top.
    Potbelly Chicken Pot Pie Soup
  • jerk chicken on a white plate with sliced scallions on top
    Instant Pot Jerk Chicken Thighs
  • overhead of pumpkin cheesecake cookies sprinkled with cinnamon.
    Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

Oregano

dried oregano in a glass jar with a wooden spoon placed at an angle in front on a white marble cutting board

Perhaps most popular in italian cooking (it is most commonly sprinkled on top of pizza), oregano is also a main component of Mexican and Greek cooking, as well. A member of the mint family, this herb is easily recognizable by smell and taste. Oregano is pungent and can be bitter when too much is used, so be sparing.

Recipes that use dried oregano

  • beef ragu that has been topped with ricotta on a white plate.
    Slow Cooker Beef Ragu
  • bowl of vegetable orzo soup with fresh basil and a spoon.
    Vegetable Orzo Soup
  • greek pork featured
    Pepperoncini Pork Roast (Crockpot and Instant Pot)
  • finished tray bake dish.
    Greek Chicken Tray Bake

Red Pepper Flakes

red pepper flakes in a glass jar with a spoon in front of them.

Red pepper flakes are great for more than use topping pizza. They are an awesome way to add dry heat without changing the consistency of the dish. The most common pepper used for making crushed red pepper flakes is cayenne pepper. Both the flesh and the seeds are used, which is what gives it the stronger heat. Try these in your next pasta dish!

Recipes that use red pepper flakes

  • up close of gigi hadid pasta that has been garnished with fresh basil.
    Gigi Hadid Pasta Recipe
  • pesto mushroom pasta featured
    Mushroom Pesto Pasta with Italian Sausage
  • thai cucumber featured
    Thai Cucumber Sauce
  • featured image for zuppa toscana.
    Zuppa Toscana Olive Garden Recipe

More All Recipes

  • Finished bowl of chicken florentine soup.
    Chicken Florentine Soup
  • plated slow cooker chicken satay with toppings.
    Slow Cooker Chicken Satay
  • 2 bowls of chicken shawarma over rice.
    Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma
  • Plated beef tenderloin tips.
    Beef Tenderloin Tips with Garlic Sauce

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

headshot of blog owner.

Hi, I'm Sarah!

I am a wife, mother, and believer. I have been cooking since I can remember and love sharing recipes with all of you. You will find a variety of recipes here from healthy family dinners, to ways to prepare venison, to soups, to baked goods, anything and everything delicious.

About Sarah

Fall Recipes

  • plate of finished chicken with rice in front of slow cooker.
    Crockpot Salsa Chicken
  • loaf of honey sourdough bread surrounded by parchment paper
    Rustic Honey Sourdough Bread
  • bowl of lasagna soup topped with cheese and parsley.
    One Pot Lasagna Soup
  • two sandwiches with melted cheese on a plate
    Crockpot Chicken Giardiniera Sandwiches
  • greek pork featured
    Pepperoncini Pork Roast (Crockpot and Instant Pot)
  • bowl of chicken noodle soup
    Classic Chicken Noodle Soup with Reames Noodles

Popular Posts

  • bowl of pastina topped with parmesan cheese.
    Chicken Pastina with Egg
  • overhead of finished ranch dressing.
    Copycat Wingstop Ranch Recipe
  • thai eggplant curry featured
    Thai Eggplant Curry Recipe
  • featured image of fermented pickles without vinegar in a mason jar
    Fermented Pickles without Vinegar
  • bowl of mexican sopita with a spoon.
    Mexican Sopita (Sopa de Conchas)
  • finished burger on a plate
    Ninja Foodi Frozen Burgers (in Air Fryer)

Footer

Sign up for emails and updates!

Sign me up!
  • Copyright © 2024 Season and Thyme LLC
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility Policy
  • ↑ back to top