Seasonings and condiments – You don’t need to buy everything you buy each month

If you're one of those people who loves cooking and experimenting with new flavors, you've probably found yourself surrounded by a variety of spices and condiments in your pantry.

After all, these ingredients are essential for adding a special touch to your recipes and enhancing the flavors of your food.

However, buying too many spices and condiments can be a waste of money and pantry space.

We often end up buying several jars of spices that we only use once or twice and that end up forgotten at the back of the cupboard.

See how to make your own seasonings and condiments

In this article, we'll show you that you don't need to buy everything you usually buy monthly when it comes to spices and condiments.

We'll present some practical tips to help you save money and optimize the use of these ingredients that are so important in cooking.

It's true! We often buy a variety of spices and condiments, but we don't always need them all in abundance or often.

Here are some tips to reduce unnecessary purchases and two complete recipes to make the most of your spices and seasonings:

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1. Make a list of essential seasonings and condiments:

Before you go shopping, make a list of the spices and condiments you actually use regularly.

Of course, there may be special occasions when you need a more exotic spice, but in general, try to keep your list short.

2. Choose versatile seasonings and condiments:

Some spices and seasonings can be used in multiple recipes, making them more versatile.

For example, ground pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are ingredients that can add flavor to a variety of dishes.

3. Buy in small quantities:

If you rarely use a particular seasoning or condiment, consider buying smaller quantities. This way, you'll avoid storing it for too long and losing quality.

4. Preparing your own seasoning mixes:

Often, ready-made seasoning mixes found in supermarkets are more expensive than buying the ingredients separately.

Learn to make your own seasoning mixes, like garam masala, curry powder, or taco seasoning. This will save you money and allow you to control the ingredients you use.

Here are two complete recipes that use a variety of spices and seasonings:

1. Chicken Curry: Ingredients:

1. – 500g of chicken breast cut into cubes
2. – 1 chopped onion
3. – 2 cloves of minced garlic
4. – 1 tablespoon curry powder
5. – 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
6. – 1 teaspoon of powdered ginger
7. – 1 teaspoon of turmeric
8. – 200ml coconut milk
9. – Salt to taste
10. – Olive oil for sautéing

Preparation method:

1. In a pan, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until golden.

2. Add the chicken cubes and sauté until lightly browned.

3. Add the curry powder, cumin, ground ginger, and turmeric. Mix well to ensure the chicken is well seasoned.

4. Add the coconut milk and cook over low heat for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

5. Season with salt to taste and serve with white rice or naan bread.

2. Roasted Vegetables with Herbs: Ingredients:

1. – 500g of assorted vegetables (carrots, zucchini, potatoes, broccoli, etc.), cut into pieces
2. – 2 tablespoons of olive oil
3. – 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
4. – 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
5. – Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation method:

1. Preheat oven to 200°C.

2. In a bowl, mix the vegetables, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt and pepper.

3. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

4. Serve as a side dish with meat or as a main course, accompanied by rice or quinoa.

Remember to adjust the quantities of seasonings and condiments according to your personal preferences. Enjoy your recipes and avoid waste by buying only what you need!

🌿 How to Store Seasonings and Condiments Properly

Keeping your spices properly stored is essential to preserving their aroma, flavor, and shelf life. Here are some simple and effective tips:

1. Use airtight containers

Avoid leaving spices in open sachets. Store them in glass or plastic jars with tight-fitting lids to prevent contact with air and moisture.

2. Store in a dry, dark place

Direct light and heat accelerate the loss of aroma in spices. Store in closed cabinets away from the stove or windows.

3. Identify with labels

Label your seasonings with their name and expiration date. This helps you keep track of them and prevents waste.

4. Do not use wet spoons

Always use dry spoons to remove seasonings, as moisture can cause mold or harden the contents.

🧂 Homemade Seasoning Mixes Worth Making

Creating your own seasoning blends is an economical, healthy, and tasty way to vary your dishes. Here are three simple and versatile suggestions:

1. Homemade seasoning for meat

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• Salt and black pepper to taste
  👉 Use on grilled, roasted or barbecued meats.

2. Herb mix for vegetables and salads

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano

• 1 tablespoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  👉 Ideal for sprinkling on roasted vegetables, potatoes or salads.

3. Mexican seasoning (taco style)

• 1 tablespoon chili powder (or hot paprika)

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt to taste
  👉 Perfect for ground meats, shredded chicken and Tex-Mex dishes.

Conclusion

Controlling the amount of spices and seasonings in your pantry not only helps you save money, but also prevents waste and makes preparing your favorite recipes easier. By choosing to make your own homemade blends, you gain in flavor, quality, and versatility, as well as being able to adjust the ingredients to your personal taste.

Also remember the importance of storing spices properly to preserve their aromas and extend their shelf life. With these practical tips, you'll be able to cook more consciously, creatively, and efficiently, making the most of each ingredient.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use homemade seasonings instead of industrial ones?
Yes! Homemade seasonings are a great alternative because you control the ingredients and avoid preservatives and additives.

2. How long do dried spices last?
In general, dried spices maintain their flavor for 6 months to 1 year, as long as they are stored in airtight jars, away from light and moisture.

3. How do you know if a spice has gone bad?
If it loses its characteristic aroma, changes color or becomes moldy, discard it immediately.

4. Can I freeze fresh herbs?
Yes, fresh herbs can be frozen to preserve their flavor, but they lose their texture when thawed. Another option is to dry them.

5. Is it better to buy seasonings in powder or grain form?
Whole spices (grains, seeds) preserve their aroma better and can be ground fresh. Powdered spices are more practical, but lose their aroma more quickly.