You might be surprised at how versatile the spices in your cabinet can be. Some of them are like culinary blank canvases that can be combined with just about any recipe you can think of.
What are these flexible spices? In this post, we’ll answer that question by listing over ten spices that go with everything.
1. Black Pepper
Virtually any savory recipe can be improved with a pinch of pepper. This zesty, hot spice brightens the taste of anything you add it to. You can sometimes even mix it with chocolate for an intriguing hot-sweet combo.
2. Cayenne
Are you trying to come up with a way to give a recipe a hot, peppery kick? Consider mixing in cayenne. Not only can you use it to transform a savory dinner into a spicy restaurant-worthy meal, but you can combine it with sweets like chocolate to balance out that sweetness.
3. Chili Powder
You can use chili powder as a bit of a stand-in for cayenne if you don’t have any cayenne lying around. It actually has a bit of cayenne in it, so expect it to warm up anything you combine it with.
4. Cinnamon
Think again if you think cinnamon is something that can only be used to make sweet breakfasts or desserts. This super flexible spice can be used in a breathtaking range of recipes, including curry.
Read Also: What Does Cinnamon Taste Like?
5. Cumin
The sharp and earthy flavor profile of cumin can be used in an endless variety of savory foods. You can test it out with this delectable cumin potatoes recipe.
6. Garlic Powder
The mouth-cleansing heat of garlic is another reason why this powder can go with just about anything. Any time you want to give your food an unforgettable aroma and heat, sprinkle in a bit of garlic powder.
7. Ginger
The reason why ginger is so flexible is that it brings together a huge mixture of flavors. Simultaneously citrusy and peppery, it encapsulates a wide range of tastes by itself. It is especially good in various types of Asian cuisines.
8. Oregano
Technically, oregano is an herb, but you can treat dried oregano like a spice. It has a peppery kick with a twist of lemon that makes it perfect for most savory recipes, whether they’re for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Related Article: What Does Oregano Taste Like?
9. Paprika
What makes paprika so flexible is the fact it’s available in a few different variations. Smoked, sweet, and spicy paprika are all options, tripling your ability to find a use for it.
Take a look at our post about what paprika tastes like to learn more.
10. Red Pepper Flakes
Whenever you want to turn up the heat in your food, red pepper flakes are a wise pick. Want to give your vegan pizza some pizzazz? Sprinkle on some pepper flakes.
Looking for a way to warm up that pasta? You guessed it – sprinkle on some red pepper.
11. Salt
You can think of salt as being like a mirror for your food. Whatever flavors you combine it with, it will enhance and reflect. Spicy, sweet, savory, earthy – salt works with them all.
Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!
