Spices, Seasonings and Salts, oh my!

[mbouloukoue]

So this post isn't so much a recipe as it is an open question to the commune

Comments

[fair_witness]

I tend to use a fair bit of oregano and garlic, either separately or together.

Smoked paprika is another favorite, especially with potatoes or chicken.

Hm. I'll have to think about this some more. Good question!

[lithera]

Garlic, garlic, garlic. Not entirely a spice but still. I like oregano, mint and basil - depending on what I'm making.

[lithera]

Oh! Saffron!

OMG, saffron.

*hugs* Kessel run. Heeeee.

[elfstar18]

I am intimidated by saffron given its cost. Do you have an suggestions for beginners who want to use it but are scared of wasting it?

[lithera]

Hrmmm. My father used it in chili. It is often best, I've found, as an excellent addative to the base of dishes. It is good in rice - especially paella.

[elfstar18]

It doesn't sound that exciting, but I prefer fresh ground pepper to anything else. (Lemon and pepper are my go to seasonings, much like your turmeric, paprika, and hot sauce.) I recently ground a little over my ice cream. It sounds insane, but it was SO good.

I also tend to go through a lot of cumin.

[littledrow]

My favorite isn't so much a base as a compound. Old Bay. Love it! I first discovered it in Maryland where they put it on practically everything, but more specifically steamed crabs. Like those wacky people who can't drive worth a darn, I have learned how to use it...sparingly, if you please (it is powerful)...for just about everything.