If you are just setting up house, you'll need to keep some basic herbs and spices on hand to be prepared for any recipe. Although those spice racks and turntables may be attractive and handy on your countertop, it is best to store all herbs and spices in a cool, dark place away from heat and light sources. You can purchase inexpensive turntables to fit inside your cabinet for easier accessibility. Although herbs and spices won't "go bad," per se, they will definitely lose their potency with age, and seeds such as poppy and sesame will get rancid. Most whole herbs and spices will retain their flavor about one year, while dried and ground versions are best used within six months. Dried herbs should be crushed between the palms of your hands to release their flavor before adding to recipes. As a general rule for most herbs, one teaspoon of dried herb can be substituted for one Tablespoon of chopped fresh herb. This is a general guide. Take your own tastes into consideration when selecting your own pantry basics.
Herbs & Spices
Condiments
Staples (standard supplies)
Refrigerator and Freezer
Pantry Basics : Herbs and Spices
Allspice, ground and whole
Arrowroot starch
Basil
Bay leaves
Chili powder
Cinnamon, ground and sticks
Cloves, ground and whole
Coriander, ground
Cream of tartar
Cumin, ground
Curry powder
Dill weed
Fennel seeds
Five-spice powder
Garlic powder
Ginger, ground
Marjoram, dried
Mint, dried
Mustard, dried ground
Nutmeg
Onion powder
Oregano, dried
Paprika, Hungarian sweet
Pepper, cayenne, dried red flakes
Peppercorns, dried black
Poppy seeds
Rosemary, dried
Sage, dried and rubbed
Salt, table and Kosher
Sesame seeds
Tarragon, dried
Thyme, ground and dried
Turmeric
Vanilla extract
Other Pantry Basics Lists:
Condiments
Staples (standard supplies)
Refrigerator and Freezer
Credits
Adapted from: Great Adventures In Food by Ellen Haas (St. Martin's Press)

Glossary | Articles by date | Articles by topic
Like this page? Share it with a friend
| Important product disclaimer information about this About site. |

