Your Go-To List of the 15 Best Spices To Have on Hand

The secret to any great dish lies in the spices you use. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, having a well-stocked spice rack is essential. At Spice Islands, we believe that quality spices can elevate your cooking to new heights. Here’s our go-to list of the 15 best spices to have on hand, so your pantry will have all the basics so you’re ready for any recipe.

1. Pure Vanilla Extract A must-have for baking and desserts, our Pure Vanilla Extract adds a rich, sweet taste to cakes, cookies, and even savory dishes like sauces.

2. Ground Cinnamon Versatile and aromatic, Ground Cinnamon is perfect for sweet and savory dishes alike. Sprinkle it on oatmeal, add it to baked goods, or use it in marinades for a warm, spicy kick.

3. Crushed Red Pepper For those who love a little heat, Crushed Red Pepper is a pantry essential. It’s perfect for adding a spicy kick to pasta, pizza, and stir-fries.

4. Ground Cumin Our Ground Cumin brings a warm, earthy flavor to a variety of dishes, from tacos to curries. It’s a spice you’ll reach for time and again.

5. Garlic Powder Convenient and full of flavor, Garlic Powder is a staple for quick and easy cooking. Use it in rubs, marinades, or sprinkle it over roasted vegetables.

6. Smoked Paprika Add a rich, smoky flavor to your dishes with Smoked Paprika. It’s perfect for barbecues, stews, and even deviled eggs.

7. Bay Leaves Essential for soups, stews, and braises, Bay Leaves add a subtle, herbal flavor that enhances the overall taste of your dish. Just be sure to remove them before eating! 

8. Turmeric Known for its vibrant color and health benefits, Turmeric is a must-have for curries, rice dishes, and even smoothies.

9. Ground Ginger Our Ground Ginger adds a warm, slightly sweet flavor to both sweet and savory dishes. It’s great for cookies, stir-fries, and marinades – particularly when you’re cooking Asian cuisine.

10. Italian Herb Seasoning A blend of classic herbs like oregano, basil, and rosemary, our Italian Herb Seasoning is perfect for pasta dishes, sauces, and roasted vegetables.

11. Ground Coriander With its citrusy, slightly sweet flavor, Ground Coriander is a versatile spice that works well in both savory and sweet dishes.

12. Whole Black Peppercorns Freshly ground Whole Black Peppercorns add a burst of flavor to any dish. Keep a grinder on hand for the best taste.

13. Ground Nutmeg A little Ground Nutmeg goes a long way in adding warmth and complexity to your dishes. Use it in baked goods, sauces, and even mashed potatoes.

14. Dill Weed Our Dill Weed adds a fresh, slightly tangy flavor to salads, seafood, and dips. It’s an excellent addition to your spice collection.

15. Saffron Known as the world’s most precious spice, Saffron adds a distinctive flavor and vibrant color to your dishes. It’s perfect for paella, risotto, and even desserts.

Having these 15 essential spices on hand will set you up for success in the kitchen. With Spice Islands’ commitment to quality and flavor, you’ll always have the perfect seasoning to enhance your culinary creations. So go ahead, explore new recipes and let your taste buds embark on a flavorful journey.