Ginger stands out as a spice due to its impressive versatility, poignantly biting flavor, and numerous health benefits. Nothing is quite like it, and we would be remiss not to at least scratch the surface of this spicy root. 

Oregano is another member of the mint family, just like Basil, the herb we explored last time. Though it’s native to the Mediterranean region, it is commonly found in other temperate climates in the Northern Hemisphere. Dried oregano is most popular since it will not wilt and its flavor is more intense than when it’s fresh. You will find it beneficial to have in your kitchen as it pairs well with other members of the mint family: basil, lavender, mint, marjoram, and many more. That makes it a staple! 

Earlier, we went to the Levant region to learn about thyme. Now, we can circle back to Italy, where basil is a principle herb in cooking. Basil and thyme are actually both part of the mint family, along with rosemary, sage, and lavender. That’s why you’ll often find them together in the same recipes. But particularly, Ocimum basilicum, has a fascinating past and a delicious present that can be used to improve your future cooking.

Basil is a great spice to add flavor and color to your cooking. It goes well with many different flavors, including black pepper, oregano, lemongrass, thyme, cinnamon, and black cardamom. Be sure to experiment with using basil in your own recipes!

Turmeric is a spice that has been used for centuries in Indian cooking. It has a slightly bitter, earthy flavor and a vibrant yellow color. Turmeric is also known for its medicinal properties, and it is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. In recent years, turmeric has become popular in the Western world as a health supplement.

When it comes to cooking, nutmeg is a spice that is often overlooked. However, it has a flavor profile that can enhance the taste of many dishes. In this blog post, I will discuss what spices go well with nutmeg and how to use nutmeg in cooking. I will also provide tips on how to start using nutmeg in your cooking repertoire!

Shrimp Saganaki is a quick and easy Greek appetizer that is often served with crusty bread to scoop up the savory tomato sauce. For a gluten-free main course, serve on a bed of cooked zucchini noodles, rice, or quinoa instead.

Shakshuka is a flavorful dish of eggs simmered in a spicy tomato sauce that originally could be found on the breakfast table in North Africa and the Middle East. It now is a popular dish world-wide. This dish is not only delicious but is healthy and easy to make as well.

Chicken shawarma is traditionally prepared on a vertical, rotating spit over open flames. As a result, it can be challenging to prepare an authentic version of this dish at home. Fortunately, this tasty recipe delivers great shawarma flavor using tools you probably already have in your kitchen.