13 Herbs And Spices That Everyone Should Have In Their Cupboard

Whether you’re a budding amateur or a kitchen whizz, these will see you right!

1. Garlic Granules

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Garlic granules are your ultimate kitchen sidekick! They are ground from whole garlic for full flavour, meaning you won’t have to compromise on taste if you don’t have any fresh to hand. It’s one of the main ingredients used in cooking and is incorporated into most dishes, but simply adding granules to easy dishes like mashed potatoes or a roast chicken can give your meals some extra pizzazz with minimal effort!

2. Paprika

Paprika is a very versatile spice and used in many different cuisines. It comes in a range of varieties including sweet, spicy, and smoked. Its bold flavour means you don’t have to add lots of other herbs and spices to your dish, and also works well on its own as a simple rub for meat or fish.

3. Turmeric

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Turmeric is commonly used in curries to add vibrancy and colour, but it also has a lovely earthy aroma. The powder is ground from whole and then matured, for a bright colour and full flavour, making it not only great for use in curries, but also in lentil, rice and vegetable-based dishes too. It’s a must-have for your cupboard.

4. Chilli Flakes

Chilli flakes are great for use in Mexican cuisine and will instantly give your meals a fiery kick. Not only are they great for cooking with, they can also be used as a condiment. Try sprinkling some on your pizza slice or if you are feeling extra adventurous, why not add some to your hot chocolate for a spicy twist?

5. Cinnamon

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Cinnamon’s sweet, warm, and woody flavour can give an intense aromatic hit to your meals. It’s usually associated with Christmas but most definitely can be used all year round and in a wide range of cuisines, including savoury Moroccan dishes. It’s also your perfect breakfast companion — use it in your coffee or tea and sprinkle it in your porridge for a tasty morning treat.

6. Coriander

Coriander goes really well in curries and aromatic dishes. It’s mix of warm, citrus tones will give your dishes a lovely fresh flavour. Add it to your beef or vegetable curry to bring out a mellow spicy flavour.

7. Cajun Seasoning

Cajun seasoning is great for barbecuing with — it is a delicious blend of chilli powder, all spice and thyme, which gives it its smoky, sweet, and subtle spicy flavour. If the weather is being typically British and you can’t get the BBQ grill out, try adding it to a risotto for a sweet and spicy kick.

8. Thyme

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Thyme is commonly used in French cooking. It works well on its own or paired with other herbs like sage and parsley. It has a subtle and fresh flavour with slightly minty undertones that go brilliantly in stews.

9. Rosemary

Rosemary is often used in Italian and French cuisine. It's fresh and woody flavour makes it perfect for spring and summer cooking. It complements chicken and oily fish beautifully, and sprinkling over your meat or veg will give it a lovely aromatic flavour.

10. Ginger

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Ginger works perfectly in both sweet and savoury foods, making it one of the most versatile spices! Its flavour is instantly recognisable and is often used in East Asian food. It is ground from whole for intensity, making it great for adding a sweet and spicy flavour to your cooking. Add it to your stir fried veg for more flavour, or why not try baking a spicy sponge cake or gingerbread man?

11. Bay Leaves

Bay leaves are great when cooked for a longer period of time, which makes them work really well in rich sauces and stews. They have a similar flavour to oregano and thyme but with a slightly more intense taste. Try adding some to your spaghetti bolognese to really elevate the dish *chefs kiss*.

12. Parsley

Parsley is used a lot in Mediterranean cooking because of its fresh and peppery taste. It also helps balance out flavours. It’s perfect for summer dishes and goes especially well with fish. Try sprinkling some on your salmon along with plenty of lemon juice — your tastebuds will not be disappointed!

13. Oregano

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Oregano is commonly found in many Mediterranean dishes, and is great for giving a lovely herby flavour to food. Dried oregano is ideal for sauces as simmering it slowly draws out the flavour. It’s perfect for adding subtle, lemony flavours to pasta sauces but also as an extra kick to spicier dishes such as Mexican fajitas!

Now that you know all about these essential herbs and spices, you are ready to cook up a storm in the kitchen! Find out more about Schwartz’s range of Herbs and Spices here.