There’s no limit to how many spices you keep in your cupboard, but you should make sure you’re stocked with the essentials
The jury’s still out on how many spices there are in the world – some say 40, while others say it’s closer to 100.
But when it comes to culinary uses, there are a few key spices that are essential, including:
Black pepper: A seasoning staple that pairs particularly well with steak, potatoes and strawberries
Cumin: A warm and earthy addition to curries and meat marinades
Cayenne: Lends a fiery heat to a variety of dishes from around the world
Paprika: Sweet, smokey or hot, a versatile spice popular in Hungarian and Spanish cuisine
Curry powder: A blend of various spices typically used in curries, autumnal soups, or as a veggie spice rub
Cinnamon: Used whole to infuse drinks and stews or ground in baking recipes. Pairs well with apple, chilli and lamb
Ginger: Commonly used ground in baking recipes or freshly grated in Asian dishes such as stir fries
