Tips on Tuesday: Let's Talk About Spices!

Tips on Tuesday:  So, let's talk about Spices today!  I have lots and lots of spices, and I'm sure you do too.  The thing about spices is using them correctly.  Badia Complete Seasoning is one of my very favorites because it is a combination of a variety of spices including:  Oregano, Basil, etc.  It is my Go-To Spice.

Here are some of my favorite spices:

Basil:  Did you know that Basil is a natural anti-inflammatory?  It is a rich source of magnesium and makes your Italian and Meat dishes taste wonderful.  It's great on pizza and pasta alike.  I grow Basil and use it probably more than any other spice.

Oregano:  Oregano is my go-to spice for Mexican dishes.  It has an amazing aroma and is easy to grow.  There are several varieties of Oregano, even a hot and spicy variety.  Oregano is actually in the mint family.  Use in small doses because it can be bitter if overused.

Cayenne Pepper:  Personally I don't use much Cayenne, because I don't like very hot foods.  But, used sparingly, Cayenne can give a boost to chili, Mexican and other dishes.

Dill:  Dill is one of my favorite spices.  I make a quick dip using Dill, 1 cup of sour cream and 1/2 cup of real mayonnaise.  People love it and it is so easy.  Dill is also good in a hearty soup and on meat.  It really kicks up the flavor of fish.

Cilantro:  I also love Cilantro.  It is full of iron and fiber.  People usually don't just "like" Cilantro.  Either they love it or they hate it.  It has a bit of a licorice flavor some say.  It is rich in nutrients and easily grown on a window-sill in a pot.  Cilantro is great in salsa, guacamole, and on Mexican dishes.

Coriander Seeds:  Come from the same plant as the Cilantro.  Did you know that Coriander actually helps control blood sugar?  They are best used in soups, on meat and fish.  You can buy them whole or ground.

Rosemary:  Rosemary is another herb that is easy to grow.  It has thick petals that can be plucked and chopped.  Adds great flavor to meats.  I love to put Rosemary on a chicken and bake it and have added it to my Thanksgiving turkey.  Rosemary contains lots of fiber and iron.

Sage:  I don't really use a lot of sage, but if I ground my own meat more, I would definitely use Sage.  It has a peppery flavor that really spices up your sausage.

Thyme:  Just two teaspoons of Thyme daily are rich in Vitamin K and very good for you.  Refried beans are great with a little Thyme and hearty meats like lamb or beef.

Turmeric:  Turmeric is one of the healthiest spices you can buy.  It is rich in manganese, iron vita B6.  It is said if you use 2 tsp. a day of Turmeric it will help arthritis sufferers.  It adds great flavor to meats, rice and veggies.

Parsley:  Parsley is great chopped and sprinkled on veggies or add a sprig to the side of a meat dish.  It is often used to add color to a plate.  Great on fish, in pasta or chopped onto a baked potato.

Enjoy spicing up those dishes!