Overview Anise Seed is related to cumin and fennel. It is an annual plant that is indigenous to the Eastern Mediterranean region and cultivated in parts of the world. It is very often used in Middle Eastern cooking, particularly in dishes that contain vegetables as the basis of the flavours. Anise Seed is not related to star anise. Common Uses The licoricey taste of Anise Seed is most commonly used to make liqueurs such as Ouzo, Anisete and Pernod. It is widely used in cake baking and cookies, such as Italian biscotti. Citrus fruits in its fresh form are elevated with a sprinkle of Anise Seeds. It complements dark breads and is often used in chutneys. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview It is believed that after pepper, coriander is the most widely used spice in the world. It is grown and processed worldwide, and in large quantities in Egypt. Its warm, husky, aromatic flavour is most commonly used in its ground form. Common Uses Coriander seeds are essential to Indian cooking. Its complex flavour is a touch sweet and a touch spicy. In Indonesian cooking, coriander is used for tempeh recipes and a masterful seasoning to bean dishes. Cabbage and corn are elevated to a whole new level with a handful of ground coriander seeds. It is added to chutneys and relishes as well and whole seeds are used for vegetable pickling. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview Fenugreek is perhaps a less commonly used spice, as it is classified as a legume. Its somewhat bitter flavour and very strong aroma is a peculiar taste and smell. These seeds retain their flavour for many years. Common Uses Fenugreek Seeds is an element of Indian cuisine and is one of the five spices in the five-spice Begali mix. In the Far East, it is used as a pickling spice. In dry form, it should be used sparingly as it has a very overpowering aroma and taste. A pinch of ground fenugreek can be added to falafel and chickpea fishes. It can also be mixed into mashed potatoes. Although it smells sweet like maple syrup when infused as a tea, it is not it is quite bitter and should be used sparingly. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won�¢??t do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview The daisy-like flower is cultivated in North Africa and central Europe. Although it is mostly used as a tisane, it is also a very important ingredient in beauty products and teas. Chamomile aids relaxation and sleep, and it also improves digestive problems. Common Uses The flower is infused in creams to get the flavour into elegant desserts. Chamomile oils are used in seafood dishes due to its acidity and herbal flavour. Chamomile is also used in alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails. The most common use is to mix chamomile powder in a cup of hot tea. One can also sprinkle the powder over soups and stews for an acidic element. In baking one can add the chamomile powder to cookie batter, scones batter and even muffins to add a delicate floral aroma. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview The tropical Hibiscus flower is a very popular item in spice shops all over the Middle East and Europe. It can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes. Hibiscus tea is also very widely enjoyed for both its flavour and health benefits. It can be chilled for a decent, tart drink. Dried hibiscus flowers can also be burnt and used as hair dyes. Common Uses Crushed hibiscus leaves mixed with some olive oil makes for a great paste to treat damaged and dull hair. It is also very beneficial for sore skin due to acne problems. Crushed hibiscus is also used in teabags for quick cups of tea. The crushed version also makes it easy to use in jellies and desserts. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview The daisy-like flower is cultivated in North Africa and central Europe. Although it is mostly used as a tisane, it is also a very important ingredient in beauty products and teas. Chamomile aids relaxation and sleep, and it also improves digestive problems. Common Uses The flower is infused in creams to get the flavour into elegant desserts. Chamomile oils are used in seafood dishes due to its acidity and herbal flavour. Chamomile is also used in alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails. The most common use is to mix chamomile powder in a cup of hot tea. One can also sprinkle the powder over soups and stews for an acidic element. In baking one can add the chamomile powder to cookie batter, scones batter and even muffins to add a delicate floral aroma. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview The Cumin Seed plant is related to parsley and is indigenous to the Mediterranean region. These seeds have pungent lemon flavours to them and are most often used in ground form. It is a very fundamental ingredient in Middle Eastern and Indian cooking and makes it a favourite seasoning in several ethnic cuisines. Common Uses Ground cumin seeds are very often used in Spanish, Mexican, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cookpots. It is added in bean stews, vegetable stews, lentils, dahls and tomato-based sauces. In Europe cumin seeds are very regularly added to breads, such as breadsticks and cornbread. In India it is almost always a component of a good curry in fact it is part of garam masala. Cumin can also be used to flavour cheeses. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date
Overview Thyme is a perennial plant that is grown and processed throughout the Middle East and Europe. The aromatic and pungent flavour releases is a perfect companion to tomato dishes and of course, meat dishes. It is a vital seasoning ingredient in Creole and French recipes, specifically in dry format. Common Uses Thyme is commonly used to enhance the taste of soups, vinaigrette, bean dishes, grains and tomato sauces. It also enhances corn dishes very well with its distinctive flavour. In the Mediterranean region, thyme is most often used to prepare lamb as it breaks down the gamy flavour of lamb and of course, venison. It is used to flavour cheeses, lentil dishes and elevates egg servings, such as omelettes very well. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date
Overview The spiky leaves of Rosemary are perhaps as old as time. It has been used for flavouring of wines, waters and of course edible dishes too. Hotels often go the rustic route by placing a small bundle of rosemary and lavender on pillows, whereas rustic restaurants stick a handful of rosemary in a tiny pot as table decoration. This evergreen shrub is relatively easy to grow, and it is processed in the Middle East. Common Uses The perfect culinary marriage is lamb and rosemary. Every chef will confess to that. Rosemary is also used to add flavour to chicken dishes, especially stuffing, and its pine like taste is perfect in sausages too. It most definitely elevates vegetable stews, vegetable roasts and tomato dishes. Rosemary is often used in breads and even sweet baked goods. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview The tropical Hibiscus flower is a very popular item in spice shops all over the Middle East and Europe. It can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes. Hibiscus tea is also very widely enjoyed for both its flavour and health benefits. It can be chilled for a decent, tart drink. Dried hibiscus flowers can also be burnt and used as hair dyes. Common Uses Hibiscus tea is made from a mixture of dried flowers, leaves and the dark red calyces of this plant. In cooking it is used more than a garnish rather than for its flavour. When the dried, red flowers are seeped in boiled water, it releases a dark red colour and a very tart flavour that works well in both teas, cocktails and sauces. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date
Overview Dry lemon is sundried until all its water content is dried up. It is used whole, sliced or ground and a very popular spice in Middle Eastern cooking as a souring agent. Common Uses Dry lemon is used for its acidity in chutneys, soups and stews. In the Middle East it is even ground into dough for flatbreads. It is used in meat dishes as well as bean-based dishes. The powder can also be added to rice. It is an essential ingredient in Persian cooking. Recommended Storage The most important point is that dried herbs and spices can never go bad if they are kept dry. Yes, the potency is lost, but it will still influence the flavor of your cooking. Seeds, roots, leaves and flowers last longer than crushed or ground herbs and spices. When you are preparing to store your dry herbs and spices it is vital that they are completely dry. A good indication is to rub it with your finger to check if it crumbles. As oxygen degrades dried herbs and spices over time, you should store them in airtight containers. Glass jars with sealable lids are perfect, and so are metal tins. Plastic won't do for long terms storage. Sunlight also degrades dried herbs and spices; therefore, it should be stored in a dark cabinet that is both cool and dry. If your spice rack is near the stove or cooker, steam will degrade your herbs and spices each time you open the container while cooking. When buying in bulk, you should always store only some of the dried herbs and spices in a glass or metal container. Each time you open it, it is exposed to the elements. When buying in bulk it is useful to label your containers with the purchase date and discard date.
Overview Adding essential oils to food and drinks creates entirely new and enhanced flavour profiles. Basil oil is an essential oil with very diverse possibilities. It can be added to both savoury and sweet dishes as well as drinks. Its bright green colour also visually enhances dishes. Common Uses Bright green basil oil is most commonly used in Italian cooking such as Caprese salads. It is also used to brighten up egg dishes such as scrambled eggs, fried eggs and omelettes. Baked potatoes are spruced up by adding basil oil to the dish just before serving. It is also a perfect addition to salad dressings, marinades, bread rubs, and one of the essential oils that replaces the real, fresh basil best. Recommended Storage The ideal storage of essential oils is to keep it refrigerated, as the fridge keeps the components that make up the oils at their optimal levels. If you don't have space in the fridge, you can keep it in a cool, dark place. Essential oils have a shelf life of one to five years. You should however replace essential oils after three years to gain the most benefits out of the essential oils.
Overview Marjoram essential oil can be used for toothaches, muscle pains, inflammation, and even against symptoms of common colds. It also aids in muscle spasms. Marjoram essential oil can also be used to treat internal and external infections such as mumps measles, pox and other internal viruses. Common Uses Marjoram essential oil should be added to one's daily diet as it is a great natural supplement for brain functioning. It can be added in a cup of tea for easy consumption. A cup of tea with some drops of marjoram oil will also relief headaches, arthritis and rheumatism. In fact, Marjoram essential oil is one of the best to take daily as it also results in a healthy gut. The oil can be applied to feet to treat fungal infections on the nails. Open wounds also heal quicker when one applies diluted Marjoram oil to those wounds. Recommended Storage The ideal storage of essential oils is to keep it refrigerated, as the fridge keeps the components that make up the oils at their optimal levels. If you don't have space in the fridge, you can keep it in a cool, dark place. Essential oils have a shelf life of one to five years. You should however replace essential oils after three years to gain the most benefits out of the essential oils
Overview Lotus essential is mostly used in cosmetics and in body soaps, lotions as well as facial products. It is also one of the most preferred massage oils because its scent creates a sense of tranquillity. It is also one of the most expensive essential oils in the market. Common Uses Lotus essential oils are often used for massaging, to relief tension. Not only is a great massage oil, but he aroma of the oil creates tranquillity. It is also known to aid in hypertension, produces energy and improves the appetite. It can be consumed in tea daily. Some drops in a diffuser also creates a sense of calm in the room. Recommended Storage The ideal storage of essential oils is to keep it refrigerated, as the fridge keeps the components that make up the oils at their optimal levels. If you don't have space in the fridge, you can keep it in a cool, dark place. Essential oils have a shelf life of one to five years. You should however replace essential oils after three years to gain the most benefits out of the essential oils.
Overview Lemon essential oil is one of the most versatile oils on the market. This oil can used on the body, in the home and for medicinal purposes. Lemon essential oil also goes a long way as it is concentrated in its oil form. Common Uses For the home, apply some lemon oil to a spray bottle to spray on counters and surfaces. It has disinfectant properties which kills germs. It can also be added to dishwashing water for further cleaning. Diluted Lemon essential oil can be used as a skin toner to kill germs and fight acne. In baking, it can be added to cakes and desserts as it as a strong lemon taste. Lemon oil also regulates sleeping add some to a cup of chamomile tea for instant relaxation. Recommended Storage The ideal storage of essential oils is to keep it refrigerated, as the fridge keeps the components that make up the oils at their optimal levels. If you don't have space in the fridge, you can keep it in a cool, dark place. Essential oils have a shelf life of one to five years. You should however replace essential oils after three years to gain the most benefits out of the essential oils
Overview Celery seed oil is one of the best detoxication agents when it comes to natural remedies. It eliminates toxins in the body. It increases the frequency and quantity of urine which removes the excess fats, bile, salts and acids in our bodies. Using this oil regularly will cleanse the liver, kidneys and gallbladder. Celery seed oil is also a great source of pain relief. Common Uses Celery seed oil is generally applied with other oils such as coconut oil, to create a massage substance which is applied to the skin. A few pure oil drops can also be dropped in bath water where you can soak in. The oil can also be diluted and rubbed on the skin to ward off mosquitoes. In cooking, celery oil is used in casseroles instead of the fresh product. Recommended Storage The ideal storage of essential oils is to keep it refrigerated, as the fridge keeps the components that make up the oils at their optimal levels. If you don't have space in the fridge, you can keep it in a cool, dark place. Essential oils have a shelf life of one to five years. You should however replace essential oils after three years to gain the most benefits out of the essential oils.
Overview Not many people are keen on grating fresh ginger into recipes as it may leave behind some of the stocky substance. Ginger essential oil is therefore a very handy substitute for cooking with ginger. Common Uses Ginger oil can be used in baking such as banana breads, ginger biscuits, fruit pies and so forth. It can also be added to tea with a slice of lemon. The health benefits of ginger essential oil are also plenty. Ginger is known to aid with nausea, sore gut and cramps. It also reliefs the symptoms of bloating and discomfort of the gut. Ginger oil can also be used in a diffuser to create a spicy aroma in the house. Recommended Storage The ideal storage of essential oils is to keep it refrigerated, as the fridge keeps the components that make up the oils at their optimal levels. If you don't have space in the fridge, you can keep it in a cool, dark place. Essential oils have a shelf life of one to five years. You should however replace essential oils after three years to gain the most benefits out of the essential oils
Overview The Ancient Egyptians used Geranium oil to promote beautiful skin and it is not surprising that today it is used in many facial and cosmetic products. Not only is it an aid for radiant skin, but also reduces acne, reduces inflammation and furthermore it alleviates anxiety. It is known to uplift moods and promote emotional wellness. Common Uses By adding some drops of Geranium essential oil to bath water, will promote emotional wellbeing and aids in feelings of depression. By adding some drops in a diffuser, one will experience brain clarity and increased concentration. It can also be taken in tea to reduce high blood sugar â?? treat diabetes. It can also create a healthy scalp and hair by massaging this oil into the scalp. Recommended Storage The ideal storage of essential oils is to keep it refrigerated, as the fridge keeps the components that make up the oils at their optimal levels. If you don't have space in the fridge, you can keep it in a cool, dark place. Essential oils have a shelf life of one to five years. You should however replace essential oils after three years to gain the most benefits out of the essential oils
Overview Clove oil can be used to treat hernias, it also reliefs symptoms of diarrhoea, and most commonly used for against bad breath and toothaches. Common Uses For toothaches, one can take a clove and add it between the gums and inner mouth. Its strong element may even cause some numbness. Clove oil is known to improve blood circulation so by adding some drops of Clove essential oil to a cup of tea per day, is a healthy addition. It is also a quick fix for stomach pains and the added benefit is to add some clove oil and other spices to water on the stovetop to create a lovely aroma. Recommended Storage The ideal storage of essential oils is to keep it refrigerated, as the fridge keeps the components that make up the oils at their optimal levels. If you don't have space in the fridge, you can keep it in a cool, dark place. Essential oils have a shelf life of one to five years. You should however replace essential oils after three years to gain the most benefits out of the essential oils.
Overview Chamomile blue oil is also known as German chamomile. Chamomile is widely known for its calming properties, whether in tea form or in essential oil form. Chamomile blue oil has a high content of azulene which brings out the blue colour. Common Uses Chamomile blue oil is most commonly used in skincare products and for aromatherapy purposes. Not only does it have a pleasant smell, it also has the nearly instant calming effect on both skin and nerves. Recommended Storage The ideal storage of essential oils is to keep it refrigerated, as the fridge keeps the components that make up the oils at their optimal levels. If you don't have space in the fridge, you can keep it in a cool, dark place. Essential oils have a shelf life of one to five years. You should however replace essential oils after three years to gain the most benefits out of the essential oils.