Essential Ingredients You Can't Miss in Your Kitchen and How to Use Them

Have you ever tried a super common recipe and it tastes amazing? The secret behind these fabulous dishes lies in the ideal mix of spices. Because, believe it or not, there is life beyond salt and pepper. Discover the wonderful world of aromas and flavors with these 10 spices.Nutmeg: yes, nutmeg tastes great in mulled wine or carrot cake, but it also works wonders in savory dishes that include beef, potatoes, or cauliflower.Crushed Chili: although its use is very common, especially in Mexican cuisine, crushed chili can do more than just spice things up. A few flakes can breathe new life into a boring tomato sauce or intensify the flavor of a simple pasta.Cinnamon: it's almost impossible to think about baking a cake without adding a pinch of cinnamon or enjoying a delicious coffee without this aromatic spice, but guess what? Cinnamon is an ideal ingredient for savory recipes that include chicken, beef, or pork.Rosemary: the unmistakable aroma of this herb pairs very well with dishes made with meat, olive oil, and garlic. But that's not all. Rosemary can also be used to prepare breads (both sweet and savory), as well as sauces and marinades.Ginger: the flavor of this famous root is well-known in Eastern cuisine; however, its use is not limited to these recipes. Ginger is present in sweet preparations as famous as gingerbread cookies and mulled wine.Clove: when we talk about must-have spices, we certainly can't forget clove. The flavor of clove is so versatile that you can use it for both baking and recipes with pork or beef.Turmeric: this spice has become trendy lately due to its multiple health benefits, but its use goes beyond its advantages. In addition to giving a beautiful yellow color to dishes, turmeric adds a special touch.Cumin: contrary to what many people believe, Mexican cuisine doesn’t include cumin in all its recipes. However, its use can completely transform the flavor of a very simple dish. Basil: although it is not strictly a spice, basil is an essential ingredient in the kitchen. Just adding a pinch makes tomato sauces and chicken dishes acquire an incredible aroma and spectacular flavor.Oregano: unlike other herbs, oregano has a more intense flavor when dried, so always keep a jar of oregano in your pantry. Use it in Italian recipes, Mediterranean dishes, or with salads, meats, and fish.Which spice did we forget to mention? Tell us which spices are essential in your kitchen.If you love using spices, you will adore these recipes:Chicken meatballs stuffed with ham and cheesePork in green pipiánPork ribs in peanut sauceStuffed yellow peppers with shrimp in bean sauce