Creating your own spice blends at home can be a fun and cost-effective way to add flavor to your dishes. On top of that, you don’t need to spend extra bucks and energy to look for the one you need, instead make it on your own. Here are some versatile spice blends for quick use and no added preservatives. Simple to make these at home:
2 tablespoons dried basil,
2 tablespoons dried oregano,
2 tablespoons dried thyme,
1 tablespoon dried rosemary,
1 tablespoon dried marjoram,
1 tablespoon garlic powder,
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
This blend is great for pasta sauces, pizza, roasted vegetables, and grilled meats.
Taco Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon chili powder,
- 1 teaspoon cumin,
- 1 teaspoon paprika,
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder,
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder,
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano,
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste).
Use this for seasoning ground beef, chicken, or beans for tacos, burritos, or Mexican-inspired dishes.
Curry Powder:
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin,
- 2 tablespoons ground coriander,
- 1 tablespoon turmeric,
- 1 tablespoon ginger powder,
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon,
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Ideal for making curry dishes with meat, vegetables, or legumes.
Cajun Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons paprika,
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder,
- 1 tablespoon onion powder,
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme,
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano,
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Perfect for seasoning seafood, chicken, and vegetables for a spicy Southern flavor.
Herb de Provence:
- 2 tablespoons dried thyme,
- 2 tablespoons dried rosemary,
- 2 tablespoons dried marjoram,
- 2 tablespoons dried savory,
- 1 tablespoon dried lavender flowers (optional)
Use this blend for roasting chicken, vegetables, or as a seasoning for grilled dishes.
Garam Masala:
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin,
- 2 tablespoons ground coriander,
- 1 tablespoon ground cardamom,
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon,
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves,
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Enhance the flavor of Indian dishes like curries and stews with this aromatic blend.
Ranch Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley,
- 1 tablespoon dried dill
- tablespoon garlic powder,
- 1 tablespoon onion powder,
- 1 teaspoon dried chives,
- 1 teaspoon salt,
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Make your own ranch dressing, or use it as a seasoning for roasted potatoes, chicken, or popcorn.
When preparing spice blends, it’s a good practice to store them in airtight containers away from direct sunlight to maintain their freshness. Adjust the quantities of individual spices to suit your taste preferences and dietary restrictions. Homemade spice blends are a great way to customize your dishes and reduce the need for store-bought seasoning packets.
