Image via WikipediaSeasoning can make or break a recipe. It can dazzle the taste buds and delight the palate, or fall flat and be dull and boring. Stores sell gourmet blends of herbs and spices to make cooking easier. But boy can they be pricey--up to $12 a bottle!
How would you like to make the same thing for about $1.25 a bottle? Here are some suggestions:
Citrus salt (for fish, chicken or vegetables)-Stir in to 1/2 cup of kosher or sea salt 1 tsp gated lemon zest, 1 tsp grated lime zest, and 1/2 tsp grated orange zest.
Hot and spicy salt (good on grilled meats, potatoes and corn on the cob)-Add 1 tsp of chipotle chili powder and 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to 1/2 cup of kosher or sea salt.
Asian salt (for pork, chicken or vegetables)-Add1/2 tsp ground coriander, 1/8 tsp ginger powder and 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds to 1/2 cup kosher or sea salt.
Italian salt-(for pasta, roasted vegetables, lamb or fish)-Add 1tsp of onion powder, 1 tsp of garlic powder and 1 tbsp of finely chopped sun dried tomato (not in oil) to 1/2 cup of kosher or sea salt.
These salts, placed in beautiful decorative jars with nicely lettered, handmade labels would make an inexpensive but delightful gift for a friend. You could also give a cookbook, or recipe cards that would complement the spice blends.
Irene Helen Zundel is a freelance writer, educator and mother, and an expert in child development, home schooling and creative parenting and home making. Visit her online at http://www.irenehelenzundel.com
