SPICEography 
Orris root is the rhizome of the iris flower and can be a valuable addition to your spice cabinet if you want to make a version of ras el hanout that contains it. Finding it in a hurry may be a problem since this spice is not widely used. The …
Za’atar is a Middle Eastern herb and spice blend with ingredients that can vary, but that will usually contain thyme, oregano, and sesame seeds. It is versatile and can be used in a range of preparations, from hummus to grilled chicken and much more. However, you will need to follow …
The extract in vanilla extract’s name is there because the flavor is extracted from the vanilla bean using alcohol. Vanilla extract is essential for many desserts and baked goods, particularly cookies and cakes. If you run out unexpectedly or can’t find the pure version (as opposed to the imitation version) …
Corn on the cob is not known for being an exceptionally flavorful food. Instead, fresh corn offers up a mild flavor that is suitable as a blank canvas for a range of seasonings. Below are some additions that you can use to give your corn on the cob a burst …
Both Madras and vindaloo curry powders clearly reflect the South Indian tradition of spice blends. They both consist of South Indian spices and are known for their peppery heat. Another quality that they both have in common is their European heritage—these are both spice blends formulated by Europeans using Indian …
Date sugar is often recommended as a substitute for refined sugar because it contains nutrients not found in crystallized sugars. The fact that it consists of ground, dried dates makes it unique among sugars. It works well in a wide variety of applications, including beverages like coffee and tea. It …
Garlic scapes are a great ingredient for stir-fried dishes, as well as for some pestos and soups. You can even grill them up like asparagus for an intensely garlicky side dish. You may have trouble finding them in the typical produce section since they are not a popular vegetable, though …
Orange mint is a cultivar of mint that combines the flavors of mint and citrus with notes of lavender. While the different elements of its flavor profile are familiar, this peppermint relative is not as simple to use as you might think. Here are some dos and don’ts of orange …