Are you just starting out using spices and want to try a few out-of-the-box suggestions? The great thing about spices is that most are easy to use and you can play around and see how they pair with each other once you get comfortable.
Another great thing about spices is when you find out about ones that you were previously unaware of, or spices that you knew about but simply hadn’t yet used.
There are many underrated spices that can add a lot of flavor to your cooking, even if they are not as commonly used as other spices. Let’s discuss 7 such spices below along with some examples of how and when to use each.
Try these spices in your cooking
Here are some suggestions for spices that you may not yet have tried:
- Sumac – Sumac is a Middle Eastern spice that works well in marinades and dressings, and can also be used as a seasoning for meats and vegetables. You can try using it in dishes like fattoush salad, grilled chicken, or roasted sweet potatoes.
- Za’atar – Za’atar is a versatile Middle Eastern spice blend that can be used on a variety of dishes. You can sprinkle it on roasted vegetables, use it as a rub for chicken or fish, or mix it into dips and spreads like hummus or labneh.
- Smoked paprika – Smoked paprika adds a smoky, savory flavor to dishes. It works well in stews and chilis, as well as on grilled or roasted meats. You can use it in dishes like paella, grilled shrimp, or vegetarian chili.
- Saffron – Saffron is a delicate spice that can be used in a variety of dishes. It’s often used in rice dishes like paella or biryani, as well as in soups and stews. You can try using it in dishes like saffron risotto, seafood paella, or Moroccan-style chicken. Saffron is often considered to be the most expensive spice in the world.
- Turmeric – Turmeric is a staple spice in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. It works well in curries, rice dishes, and roasted vegetables. You can use it in dishes like chicken tikka masala, vegetable biryani, or turmeric roasted cauliflower.
- Cardamom – Cardamom has a warm, spicy-sweet flavor and is often used in baked goods and desserts. It also works well in savory dishes like curries and stews. You can use it in dishes like chai tea, chicken korma, or spiced lentil soup. Cardamom is also often added to Middle Eastern and Turkish coffee.
- Fenugreek – Fenugreek has a slightly bitter, nutty flavor and is often used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. It works well in curries, stews, and lentil dishes. You can use it in dishes like chicken tikka masala, saag paneer, or spiced lentil soup. You can also brew fenugreek tea, a beverage often used for medicinal purposes.
Want to keep learning about lesser-known spices? Check out my article called What Do Chefs Think Is An Underused Spice? This article includes a few new spices to consider.