SPICEography 
Mint is a highly versatile herb with a host of both savory and sweet applications. It can brighten a salad or add a delightful sweetness to snickerdoodles. You will only get these benefits when it is used in moderation. When used in excess, this herb can become overpowering and unpleasant. …
Chinese five-spice powder is a popular and potent spice mix used in various Asian dishes. In China, its usage is limited mostly to restaurants and it is not a household staple in most regions; however, it does play a major role throughout Uyghur cuisine. If you are a fan of …
Thyme is a delightful herb that can bring both depth and brightness to a dish, but only when you use it correctly. Its pungency can quickly make food unpalatable if you use it in excess. As with many other spices, you have several tricks at your disposal that you can …
The intense herbal and lemony flavor of lemongrass is found throughout Southeast Asian cuisine. The flavor of lemongrass is not one that you can omit and still expect to have an authentic tasting dish. Having fresh lemongrass on hand is, therefore, a good idea if you want to cook dishes …
There are no fixed rules for making curry; what is too much curry powder for one person may be just the right amount for someone else. If you are new to curry and think that you have added too much curry powder, consider the fact that you may be dealing …
Allspice is widely used in dishes throughout the Caribbean and in Mexico. It is one of the main ingredients in Jamaican jerk seasoning, but its use has grown well beyond these roots – including being a popular holiday spice. If you run out or if you cannot find this spice …
Basil is a versatile herb when used in moderation. It can brighten up a large number of savory dishes, especially those that include tomatoes. As with most herbs, its qualities can quickly become drawbacks when it is used in excess. Too much basil can make your food bitter and unpalatable. …
Cilantro is known for its strong aroma and the fact that it is a popular ingredient in Latin American cuisine. This member of the carrot family is also the plant that supplies coriander, another popular seasoning. The flavor of cilantro is controversial in that while many love it, others find …