Spices can be expensive to buy, and if there’s a recipe that requires a whole range of spices that you don’t have in your cupboard yet, it can make up a big chunk of the cost for that recipe.
However, having a well-stocked cupboard is really important if you want to be cooking your own tasty meals from scratch. Otherwise, they will be dull and tasteless!
Our tip:
Don’t waste money buying the spices in the small glass jars the supermarkets sell. Even the refill packs aren’t really that good value.
Do buy herbs and spices that you use regularly in larger bulk packs, which are available in independent international supermarkets (you’d be surprised how cheap a large bag of black peppercorns can be). Also, check out the international food aisle in your usual supermarket – especially the Indian section which will often have larger bags of spices that are much better value!
Here’s a list of herbs and spices that we always have in the spice cupboard, and that keep coming up in the recipes we make:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Basil
- Oregano
- Parsley
- Coriander (ground & leaf)
- Rosemary
- Thyme
- Mint
- Paprika
- Chilli (powder and dried flakes)
- Cumin
- Tumeric
- Cajun spice mix
- Curry powder (medium)
- Nutmeg
If you’re good with plants, it’s also worth keeping an eye out for discounted potted herbs. With a little TLC they can thrive and become part of a productive herb garden on your window sill.