As we transition from summer into the cooler autumn months, we notice a slight decline in available fresh produce, especially of the local variety. Just because some things are out of season, doesn’t mean your meals have to suffer any less flavor. Not only do we have a great source of fresh in-season herbs year round (available in the produce department) but we stock flavors galore in the form of dried herbs. We are proud to say that the glass jars lining our herb and spice department house nearly every seasoning an aspiring chef might need. This includes a large variety of individual spices and even unique blends. Brush up on your cool-weather flavor enhancers with this guide to seasonal spices.
Basil: adds a transitional hint of summer sunshine to compliment berries, tomato dishes or stir-frys. Also tastes great in poultry dishes year round.
Bay leaf: the mighty king of soup stock, whole bay leaves add rich savory flavor to soups, stews and potato dishes. Chances are, if you’re boiling water, you may want to add a bay leaf to the pot.
Marjoram: once used as a meat-preserving herb, marjoram is similar in flavor to oregano – earthy with a hint of sweetness. Naturally delicious in meat and mushroom dishes.
Rosemary: roasted veggies, sauces and stuffings, grilled fish, beef, pork and poultry – rosemary is extremely versatile and delicious with everything from the garlic mashed potatoes to the vanilla bean ice cream (with a touch of balsamic glaze, of course).
Sage: deep and “woodsy” in flavor, sage is perfect in stuffings, grains, pork dishes (especially any recipe containing sausage) and meatloaf.
Tarragon: bright and potent, this herb is wonderful in salad dressings, with seafood or over vegetables.
Thyme: earthy but subtle, thyme is prime for dry rubs and marinades. Pairs well with most meats and is especially tasty in lentil soup.
Take the guesswork out of mixing with some of our more popular savory blends. The following are prepared with the ideal herb ratios to bring the most flavor to your favorite fall dishes.
Herbs de Provence: an inspired French combination of robust savory herbs, mixed with aromatic lavender flowers
Pickling Spice: this blend is ideal for DIY canning projects and makes delicious pickles. Experiment by adding other spices to this base to find your perfect flavor.
Poultry Seasoning: a blend of savory winter herbs, salts, and just a hint of spice – this is not just for poultry. Add to sauces, gravies, stuffings and rice dishes.
The following herbs are labeled as “sweet” spices. They’re versatile and complex, adding a touch of sweetness to savory meat dishes (like chicken and lamb) while warming up any dessert or baked good recipe.
Allspice: earthy and sweet, adds warmth to breads, desserts and soups.
Anise: sweet and unique with a licorice-like flavor, compliments meat dishes and homemade sauces or candies.
Cardamom: often used in curry dishes, cardamom adds a punch of sweetness to rice or roasted veggies.
Cinnamon: pairs well with allspice, nutmeg and clove. Complements a host of baked goods including cookies, muffins and breads.
Cloves: warm and sweet and potent – a little goes a long way! Excellent in breads, sauces, marinades or over baked sweet potatoes.
Ginger: sweet and warm, ginger adds a hint of earthy spice to sauces, smoothies and cakes. Pairs well with garlic.
Mace: made from part of the nutmeg plant and is similar in flavor.
Nutmeg: sweet and complex, add a pinch to anything containing cinnamon for a well-rounded flavor. Great in rice, sauces and stuffings.
Vanilla beans: just a tiny bit of the sticky and sweet bean center adds warm vanilla flavor to dairy dishes, cookies and homemade brulee.
Sweet spice blends:
Apple Pie Spice: perfectly paired with the sweet flavor of autumn apples, this is a blend of cinnamon, fenugreek, lemon peel ginger, nutmeg and clove.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: a balanced blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and clove – great for pies, crumbles, cookies and more.
Cider Mate Mulling Spice: make your own holiday cider or punch with this delicious mix of cinnamon, orange peel, allspice, clove and ginger.
Come in and see us for more suggestions and recommendations. Stock the spice rack, preheat that oven, fire up the stovetop and create flavorful meals to your heart’s content. Happy fall!
