18 Best Spice Blends You Should Be Cooking With This Year
Ever felt like you’re in a cooking rut, making the same old dishes week after week? I know the feeling! Over the last few months, I’ve created the ultimate cheat code of the best spice blends to make your meals go from “oh, this again” to “oh my gosh, this is amazing!”
Because really, the secret to delicious and quick meals isn’t a new recipe or some exotic ingredient you can’t pronounce—it’s about having easy-to-use spice blends on hand!
These spice jars are the real MVPs of the kitchen. They’ve got all the herbs and spices perfectly balanced for just about any cuisine you can imagine, all without you having to think too hard!
Even if you’re a seasoned (pun intended!) chef, these spice blends are going to speed up your cooking process and make your dishes taste even better. Let’s start!
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Italian Seasoning
Amazon Pick: McCormick Italian Seasoning
Italian Seasoning is basically like a trip to Italy but without the pricey airfare. We’re talking basil, oregano, thyme, and other herbs all in one jar. Throw it into your spaghetti sauce or sprinkle some on your pizza. It’s versatile and a real time-saver. Trust me, your pasta will sing—opera style.
Taco Seasoning
Amazon Pick: Old El Paso Taco Seasoning Mix
Okay, you can’t claim to love tacos and not have Taco Seasoning in your kitchen. This little packet has everything—cumin, paprika, chili, you name it. It’s not just for beef; try it on chicken or even vegan tacos.
Pair it with the Ultimate Taco Truck Green Sauce or this yummy opycat Chuy’s Boom Boom Sauce.Now you’re ready to host a fiesta!
Chimichurri Starter
Amazon Pick: Shawhan Farms Chimichurri Starter Spice Mix
Say hello to the Argentinian superstar of your spice cabinet! This chimichurri starter from Shawhan Farms is an easy way to add that herby, tangy kick to your meats. Just mix with some olive oil and some water and you’ve got a delicious chimichurri sauce ready in minutes. No chopping required! It’s killer on steak, but don’t stop there. Try it on grilled veggies or even to spread over crusty bread. Your BBQ just leveled up!
BBQ Rub
Amazon Pick: Cattlemen’s Cowboy Rub
This isn’t your granddad’s BBQ rub. this BBQ Seasoning Set takes it up a notch with a blend that makes your meats mouth-watering good. Whether you’re doing ribs or chicken wings, this rub is one to keep around and make you a BBQ legend in your neighborhood. I like to pair it with my favorite Pineapple BBQ sauce just before serving!
Garam Masala
Amazon Pick: Simply Organic Garam Masala
Alright, if you’re even slightly into Indian food, Garam Masala is a must-have spice blend in your pantry. A dash in your curry and boom—you’re basically a Michelin-star chef. Well, almost.
Za’atar
Amazon Pick: Z&Z Za’atar
Za’atar is like the Swiss Army knife of Middle Eastern cuisine. It’s good on literally everything. Sprinkle it on some hummus, add it to your flatbreads, or even toss it in a salad. The mix of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac gives it a nice kick that’s super addictive.
Chinese Five Spice
Amazon Pick: Frontier Co-op Five Spice Seasoning
Chinese Five Spice is a game-changer for Asian dishes – especially stir-fries. Essentially, it’s a blend of cinnamon, cloves, fennel, star anise, and Szechuan peppercorns – it’s absolutely delicious on duck and pork.
Cajun Seasoning
Amazon Pick: Slap Ya Mama Cajun Seasoning
Bring the Mardi Gras to your dinner table! Cajun seasoning is your go-to for gumbo, jambalaya, or anything you want to spice up, literally. It’s a flavorful blend of peppers, garlic, and herbs that screams New Orleans.
Montreal Steak Seasoning
Amazon Pick: McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning
Montreal Steak Seasoning is a blend of pepper, garlic, and other spices that turn your steak from “meh” to “amazing!” Throw it on some potatoes too for the perfect side dish. It’s the real MVP of grilling season.
Chili Powder
Amazon Pick: McCormick Dark Chili Powder
Who doesn’t love a good chili night, right? This dark chili powder mix brings heat, smokiness, and a touch of sweetness. It’s a one-way ticket to Flavor Town, especially if you’re a fan of Tex-Mex. Use it in your chili, tacos, or as a rub for your grilled meats. So versatile!
Herbs de Provence
Amazon Pick: Simply Organic Herbs De Provence
Dreaming of the French countryside? This blend is as close as you’ll get without a passport. Herbs de Provence is a fragrant mixture of lavender, thyme, and rosemary. It’s absolutely dreamy in roasts, stews, and even baked goods. Oh là là!
Jerk Seasoning
Amazon Pick: Walkerswood Traditional Jerk Seasoning
You can’t talk about Caribbean food without mentioning Jerk Seasoning. It’s a spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet spice blend that’s amazing on chicken, pork, or even fish.
Poultry Seasoning
Amazon Pick: Badia Poultry Seasoning
Your chicken doesn’t have to be boring, guys. Poultry Seasoning is the facelift it needs. Sage, thyme, and marjoram come together for a herby and slightly citrusy kick. Say goodbye to bland chicken breasts and hello to yumminess!
Old Bay
Amazon Pick: OLD BAY Seasoning
Hey, it’s not just for crab cakes! Old Bay is a spice blend made of paprika, celery salt, and other spices. It’s a classic for a reason. Toss it on your seafood, or even to amp up your fries. Trust me, you’ll want to sprinkle it on everything.
Curry Powder
Amazon Pick: Simply Organic Curry Powder
Curry nights just got easier, my friends. No need to mix your own spices. This curry powder has all the Indian food deliciousness packed into one jar. Cumin, coriander, turmeric, and more combine for an authentic and flavorful mix that’s perfect for quick and easy curry dishes.
Everything Bagel
Amazon Pick: Trader Joe’s Everything but the Bagel Sesame Seasoning
TJ’s Everything Bagel Seasoning is a cult favorite, and for good reason! It’s got all the savory crunchiness of an everything bagel, without the bagel. Put it on your avocado toast, sprinkle it over a salad, or even mix it into your popcorn. This seasoning is literally good on everything!
Togarashi
Amazon Pick: USimplySeason Togarashi Spice
Love Japanese cuisine? Togarashi is a must-have. It’s a blend of seven spices that’s a bit spicy, and a bit citrusy. Great on ramen or to kick up your mayo.
Baharat
Amazon Pick: Jamie Geller Baharat Spice Seasoning
Baharat is a Middle Eastern spice blend made with black lime, paprika, and other spices that add a complex flavor profile to your dishes. Whether you’re cooking up some kebabs or spicing up your rice, Baharat is your new secret weapon.
Tips and Tricks
- Storage is Key: Keep your blends in a cool, dark place. No one likes stale spices!
- Shake It Up: Before using, give your spice jar a good shake to mix all the flavors.
- Start Small: If you’re new to a blend, start with a little. You can always add more.
Looking for More Spice-Related Articles and Recipes?
- How to Make Red Chile Sauce from Powder
- 5 Best Store Bought Dry Rub For Ribs & How To Use Them
- Best Rub for Smoked Chicken Thighs (Storebought + Homemade)
- Easy Pork Ribs Dry Rub Recipe for Oven
- BEST Tri Tip Rub for Smoking Recipe
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular spice blend?
You might have guessed it—Italian seasoning takes the crown as one of the most popular spice blends out there. Great for pasta, veggies, and well, pretty much everything.
What is a good combination of spices?
Surprisingly, one of the best spice blends for a kick of umami is a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and seaweed. Sprinkle it on vegetables or in soups, and you’ll see what I mean.
What are the top 10 most used spices?
- Black Pepper – Your all-around MVP.
- Garlic Powder – Great in practically everything.
- Cayenne Pepper – For when you need some heat.
- Ginger – A must for Asian dishes and soups.
- Cinnamon – Sweet or savory, it’s versatile.
- Nutmeg – Perfect for baking and some savory dishes.
- Allspice – A star in Jamaican jerk seasoning.
- Cardamom – Big in India and the Arabic world.
- Fenugreek – Essential for certain Greek and Indian dishes.
- Fennel Seed – Loved by Italians and Greeks alike.
What are the suggested top 5 spices?
If you’re looking to really master the best spice blends, then you gotta have these:
- Black Pepper – It’s classic for a reason.
- Garlic Powder – Your go-to for almost anything.
- Cayenne Pepper – Spice things up!
- Ginger – Perfect for soups and Asian cuisines.
- Cinnamon – For that warm, cozy feel (or pumpkin pie spice for all the fall baking recipes)
What spices can you mix together?
Well, the sky’s the limit here, but let’s start simple. How about a DIY seasoning blend? Combine salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This blend works well on burgers, french fries, and so much more.
What are 3 rules for seasoning?
- Balance is Key: Don’t go overboard with one spice. You’re going for harmony, like a well-tuned band.
- Taste As You Go: Seriously, always taste your food while cooking. It’s the only way to get those best spice blends just right.
- Freshness Matters: Keep your spices fresh to get the most bang for your buck. Stale spices are a no-go.
What spices should I always have in my kitchen?
Black pepper, garlic powder, and ginger should be your starting lineup. Throw in some cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat and cinnamon or nutmeg for that warm, earthy vibe, and you’ve got yourself set for most recipes.
Are spice blends gluten-free?
Mostly, yeah, but you gotta read the labels. Some spice blends might have additives or fillers that contain gluten. When in doubt, opt for organic or 100% pure spice blends to keep it gluten-free.
