Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Spice Rack 101 Part Two

Yesterday we covered a few of the spices that are in that mysterious spice rack everyone owns. Most racks contain at least ten to fifteen bottles , Some contain twenty. Most cooks only use the basic, everyday one s like rosemary or oregano. yet there;s so much more. Not only that, these will liven up any meal and create a wonderful flavors that you'll love!

Chefs love cooking with tarragon , thanks to it;s distinctly fresh from the garden flavor. It's great in delicate chicken and fish sauces but it's also good flavoring chicken or egg salad. Celery seeds are another spice rack staple.These are good flavoring any ham dish ,especially those made with devilled ham .Try them in a ham spread or a dip.Coriander is another spice that's versatile. You can use it to add zing to soups and dips but also to curry dishes. For a more soothing spice, experiment with dried dill. It's a staple for any salmon dish but also makes a wonderful dressing when mixed with sour cream.Serve it over freshly sliced cucumbers.

Spice racks also have their sweet sides too. There;s always cinnamon and nutmeg. We know cinnamon is good in making coffee cakes, muffins and buns. it;s also good spicing up cappuccino and hot cocoa. You can also use it to flavor farina and oatmeal too. Nutmeg is another sweet spice. It;s a great topping fo r homemade egg custards and vanilla puddings.It makes an interesting ingredient to sugar cookie dough . giving a normally bland recipe some fillip. Use it to sprinkle over cappuccino and hot chocolate too.

never be afraid of your spice rack. Try each and every spice to add color and flavor to your dishes.It'll elevate them from ordinary to gourmet!

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