Spice It Up a Little

Moving is one of those experiences that forces you to look at what quantifies your existence in the real world. As I box up books and birthday cards, clothing and toiletries, it occurs to me that my possessions are ideal for a nomadic lifestyle.

By K

Aside from my bed, I could pick up and go at any time to start over in another overpriced, undersized apartment. This feeling is surprisingly liberating in the “world is my oyster” sense. Wee! I can go anywhere! My options are limitless, budgeting excluded!

After rigorously going through my wardrobe and neatening my bedroom, I took stock of my kitchen. I really have nothing to take with me, save for my toaster oven, which was a birthday gift from my roommate and is my favorite appliance of all time. As I lovingly patted the top of it, assuring her that her new home would offer her counter space, I thought how much easier takeout is than cooking. Food out is so much better. Food at home is so… bland.

Why? Because spices are freaking expensive and salt and pepper can only do so much. But really, overall, I could save tons of money if I would stop getting delivery and started grocery shopping. After some serious contemplation, I comprised the following list of spices that must be staples to my future creative kitchen:

Garlic—Great for Mexican and Italian food, even good if you feel like slathering a toast with butter and adding a little kick. Garlic is also great in Asian foods and stir-fries.

Cumin—Essential for amazing fajitas, it’s what gives tacos their taco flavor.

Chili powder—Used for the same fajitas, chili of course, as well as Indian or Thai food if you feel fancy.

Crushed red pepper—I cannot, will not, eat pizza without it. It’s good with just about everything if you love spicy-as-in-hot food.

Basil—Essential for any homemade marinara sauce. Great with pasta in olive oil, add some garlic, a little salt, some oregano, and yummm.

Oregano—Another spice critical to an Italian menu.

Cinnamon—Love it on toast, applesauce, in pancakes, anything.

Cocoa powder—Make your own homemade hot chocolate, or good to just have if you want to start baking.

Sugar—Great to pair with that cinnamon on toast, and nice to have if people are over and you’re offering tea or coffee.

Vanilla extract—Adds a nice flavor to pancakes and even hot chocolate.

The above won’t take up an entire cupboard, but it gives you enough options where you can spice up any dish just a little. Any spices you couldn’t live without? Let us know!