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Peggy's Top 20 Herbs and Spices

Someone asked us to list our Top 20 dried herbs and spices found in our kitchen cabinets on our Message Board. Here's my personal list. Your personal favorites will probably vary depending on your tastes. Some of the following are technically not herbs or spices, but they reside in my cabinet for seasoning purposes. I don't have any particular favorite brands, except where indicated. The most important thing to remember is that they be fresh. Most dried herbs and spices lose their potency after six months on the shelf. It's wiser to buy small amounts that you will use up more quickly than bulk amounts that will sit around too long and go stale. The links go to featured articles I've written on the subject.

Peggy's Top 20 Herbs & Spices
Rank Herb / Spice Comments
1 Garlic Powder I use it in nearly every savory dish. Lawry's preferred.
2 Whole Peppercorns Get a grinder and you won't use pre-ground pepper again!
3 Oregano Rub between palms before adding to release more flavor.
4 Basil Goes with oregano well.
5 Dill Weed Essential for fish.
6 Paprika Sweet Hungarian is my favorite. Sgezed preferred.
7 Cumin Essential for Mexican dishes.
8 Cinnamon Baking and curries.
9 Nutmeg Baking and cream sauces. Better to grate your own.
10 Rosemary Poultry basic.
11 Saffron Truly worth the expense. A little goes a long way.
12 Sage A must for poultry.
13 Thyme Good with meat and poultry.
14 Parsley Good for adding color. Mild flavor.
15 Bay Leaf A must for soups and stews.
16 Tarragon Good with seafood and poultry.
17 Onion Powder I used this as a flavor booster instead of salt.
18 Chile Powder Get the real thing, not a blend.
19 Celery Seed My potato salad has to have it.
20 Arrowroot Great for thickening sauces.

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