Herbs & Spices

Sometimes, the next step to becoming a fantastic home cook lies in the ability to use the right seasoning at the right time. You don’t need a new pan, you don’t need a new knife, and you certainly don’t need a new stove. Try getting a couple of new herbs and spices to try out instead!

That’s because every cook’s goal is to make delicious dishes. And you can achieve that goal with the knowledge of seasoning! Some seasonings cost relatively little. They are your spices like cumin and paprika. You can also get some dried herbs at a relatively low price, too. Some may cost more - and probably because those are harder-to-get ones.

Where can you buy organic herbs and spices? Why, here at PlantX!

What Is The Importance Of Herbs And Spices In Cooking?

Proper seasoning is part of cooking 101. Whether you're making a nice, home-cooked meal in your flat or creating a culinary masterpiece in a restaurant’s kitchen, you need seasoning. The secret to all great-tasting dishes lies in plant-based herbs and vegan spices!

A sprinkle of salt and a dash of pepper can work wonders. If you know your way around a spice cabinet, then you can level up any dish in no time! Got some bland take-out or meh-tasting deliveries? Spice them up with organic herbs and spices yourself!

Is it all just salt and pepper? Of course, not. In order to achieve sweet, salty, bitter, spicy…and all the other flavours out there, a blend of different organic herbs and spices must be used.

So, get yourself some cumin, paprika, chilli powder, and even some mustard seeds. Spices cost very little so you can try using some in the kitchen until you learn how to use them. As for herbs, you can get dried herbs as well as fresh ones by keeping a planter at home. 

Buying Herbs & Spices? Here’s What To Look For! 

Let’s talk herbs. If you’re buying some herbs yourself, best get more aromatic ones. The more aromatic they are, the chances are that they are fresher. Also, if you can, have a little taste. A stronger, more potent taste means fresher herbs!

For spices, get whole spices! If you have a spice grinder or a mortar and pestle at home, you can crush your spices. Whole spices also last longer than ground ones. Don’t go overboard when buying spices, too. You don’t want them to end up going bad in your kitchen. Some spices are strong. Getting a small amount means that you still get to use them to their full potential while leaving less waste.

Buying herbs and spices online is way different. That’s why it’s better if you get from a trusted brand and a trusted source… like PlantX! PlantX is home to great vegan and organic herbs and spices!

Top Picks for Herbs & Spices

Sugar, spice, and everything nice. We know you’re already versed in the most basic kitchen spices. That’s why we’d like to take this opportunity to introduce you to some more unique organic herbs and spices!

Organic Traditions Organic Turmeric Powder

Speaking of organic herbs and spices, this one is getting more and more popular by the day! Turmeric powder, especially this one from Organic Traditions, can be used for cooking or making home remedies. You can make a homemade tonic packed with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric has earthy, peppery, and bitter notes. If you’d like to cook with it, add it to curries, stews, and stir-fries. It will not only add a lift of flavour, but it will also add some natural colour!

Al'fez Sumac Spice

Sumac spice is made from sumac berries. It has a tangy and lemony taste that reminds us of lemon juice. This is often used to add flavour to grilled meat substitutes or sprinkled on fresh salads. This sumac spice can be a source of energy and protein! 

Clearspring Green Nori Sprinkle Flakes

Not a lot of people think of seaweed as an addition to their plant-based herbs and vegan spices. Nori, or seaweed, can go beyond sushi. Clearspring Green Nori Sprinkle Flakes have a slightly sweet and salty taste. Sprinkle them on pizza, pasta, and even salads. If you want to have a tasty meal with it, have a generous sprinkle of it with a warm bowl of rice and soy sauce. 

FAQ

How do I find out what organic herbs and spices taste like and how do I cook with them?

A quick search on the internet would be very helpful for that. But nothing really beats having the herbs and spices yourself so that you can taste and test them. 

If you’re just starting out, add your organic herbs and spices little by little. Always taste as you go and see what flavours they bring to the dish before going crazy with the seasoning.

Spices have a wide range of tastes. They can have bitter, salty, sweet, sour, and even umami tastes. Some even bring earthiness and floral notes!

Should herbs and spices be stored in plastic or glass?

Whether plastic or glass, make sure they are airtight and they can prevent any moisture from getting in.

But, if you can, store your organic herbs and spices in glass containers. Plastic containers do have a tendency to be porous, which can lead to your spice getting unwanted air. That can speed up the expiration process. Glass containers, on the other hand, may help extend your spice and herbs’ shelf life!

I’m looking to buy herbs and vegan spices, which ones should I get first?

After the kitchen basics of salt and pepper, why not try some rosemary, thyme, paprika, and chilli powder? Chances are, a lot of people you know already use them. That means you can ask them how they use their herbs and spices and learn from them!

If you want to take a chance and have some culinary fun, go to our lovely herbs and spices page and check out one at random!

What are some common herbs I can try out for myself?

You have your mint, basil, dill, cilantro, oregano, parsley, and rosemary. Herbs give lots of flavour to roasted veggies and fresh pasta. When it comes to herbs, get fresh when you can. Otherwise, dried still works just quite well - especially in home kitchens.

Herbs, while most commonly used to make savoury meals, can also be used to make sweet desserts and drinks!