Saffron truly is worth its weight in gold. It is a product of the Crocus flower and adds a pungent and aromatic flavor to foods.  It also adds a beautiful golden color to anything you are cooking with. It is native to Asia Minor, where it has been cultivated for thousands of years to be used in medicines, perfumes, dyes, and as a wonderful flavoring for foods and beverages.  I like to add it to rice or as seen here, orzo pasta.  It is pretty mild in flavor but adds the perfect touch to a simple dish.  Give it a try and you will see that it is absolutely delicious! (more…)

This spice, native to China and Vietnam, brings a licorice flavor to dishes and is a bit stronger than regular anise. It is used in traditional Chinese cooking, as well as Chinese medicine. Although it may seem unrelated to Christmas and the holidays, there are many traditional holiday recipes that debut this robust spice. Regardless of it’s festive shape, I’m sure you didn’t realize the taste of black licorice was so merry.

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There are so many uses for this herb. Cilantro is a perfect addition to Mexican dishes; add Cilantro to salsas and bean dips. Mix crushed Cilantro into sour cream and use it as a topping for chili, tacos, or enchiladas. Sprinkle Cilantro over stir fried vegetables for color and Asian flavor. Add Cilantro to sesame ginger dressing when making Chinese chicken salad.
Cilantro is traditionally used in Middle Eastern, Mexican and Asian cooking. It’s taste is a fragrant mix of parsley and citrus.

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When I think of holiday food, certain spices always come to mind. Nutmeg is one of them. And about a year ago, I discovered freshly ground nutmeg. I will never buy the pre-ground nutmeg again, because the flavor is so much better when you grate it yourself! It is easy to find - you should be able to find it in the spice section in any grocery store. All you need is a fine grater, and your recipes with nutmeg will be taken to a whole new level!

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one of my favorite types of food to eat is indian food.
i love the beautiful variety of spices they use in their cooking, and the combination of flavors is always a delight.

my favorite indian dish, hands down is chicken tikka masala.

i love trying to re-create dishes from my favorite restaurants at home. of course my curiosity got the better of me, and i’ve been working to make my chicken tikka masala rival some of my favorite indian restaurants. and, i think i’ve just about got it! i’ve been perfecting this recipe for years, making little changes here and there. so, i am excited to share it with you! (more…)