Seasonings and Condiments - You don't need to buy everything you buy per month

If you are one of those people who love to cook and try new flavors, you have probably found yourself surrounded by different spices and condiments in your pantry.

After all, these ingredients are essential to add a special touch to your recipes and enhance the flavors of food.

However, overdoing it with the amount of spices and condiments we buy can be a waste of money and pantry space.

Often, we end up buying several pots of spices that we use only once or twice and end up being forgotten in the back of the closet.

See how to make spices and condiments yourself

In this article, we will show you that it is not necessary to buy everything you usually buy every month when it comes to seasonings and condiments.

We will present some practical tips for you to save 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 so often.

Here are some tips to cut down on unnecessary shopping and two complete recipes to use your spices and condiments efficiently:

1. Make a list of essential spices 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 lean.

2. Opt for versatile seasonings and condiments:

Some spices and condiments 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 spice or condiment, consider buying in smaller quantities. This way, you avoid them being stored for a long time and losing quality.

4. Making your own spice mixes:

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

Learn how to make your own concoctions, such as garam masala, curry powder or taco seasoning. This will save you money and allow you to be in control of the ingredients you are using.

Here are two complete recipes that utilize a variety of spices and condiments:

1. Chicken curry: Ingredients:

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

Method of preparation:

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

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

3. Add the curry powder, cumin, ginger powder and turmeric. Mix well so that the chicken is well seasoned.

4. Add the coconut milk and simmer 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 minced fresh rosemary
4. – 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
5. – Salt and pepper to taste

Method of preparation:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.

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

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

4. Serve as an accompaniment to meat or as a main course, accompanied by rice or quinoa.

Remember to adjust the amounts of spices and condiments according to your personal preferences. Make the most of your recipes and avoid waste by buying only what you need!