Top 10 Spices Used In Cooking

We asked our South Florida Eats readers to tell us the top 10 spices they use in cooking. And here are the results. Tell us in the comments if you use a particular spice from the list below or one not listed here.

1. Black pepper – This versatile spice adds flavor and heat to a wide variety of dishes, including meats, vegetables, and soups.
2. Cumin – Often used in Mexican, Middle Eastern, and Indian cuisine, cumin has a warm, earthy flavor that pairs well with meats, beans, and rice.
3. Cinnamon – This sweet and spicy spice is commonly used in baking and savory dishes like curries and stews.
4. Paprika – Made from ground dried peppers, paprika adds a mild, smoky flavor and bright red color to dishes. It’s often used in Hungarian, Spanish, and Indian cuisine.
5. Garlic powder – Made from dried and ground garlic cloves, garlic powder is a convenient way to add garlic flavor to dishes without the hassle of peeling and chopping fresh garlic.
6. Ginger – This spicy and fragrant root is commonly used in Asian cuisine and sweet dishes like gingerbread and cookies.
7. Turmeric – This bright yellow spice has a slightly bitter, earthy flavor and is often used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. It’s also known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
8. Chili powder – A blend of ground chili peppers and other spices, chili powder adds heat and flavor to dishes like chili, tacos, and enchiladas.
9. Oregano – Commonly used in Mediterranean and Mexican cuisine, oregano has a pungent, slightly bitter flavor and pairs well with meats, vegetables, and pasta dishes.
10. Thyme – This aromatic herb has a slightly sweet, earthy flavor and is often used in French and Mediterranean cuisine, as well as in stuffing and meat dishes.

Do you have a favorite recipe using one or more of these Top 10 spices, then we would love to know about it. Submit it using our contact form, and we’ll publish it for everyone to try themselves.