Ever stare at your spice rack and think, “What exactly am I doing with all of these?” Yeah, same. You grab a jar, sniff it, squint like you suddenly know how to blend flavors like a Michelin chef, then toss it back in the cabinet.
Let me save you some shelf shuffling. Making your own spice blends is easier than it sounds, way cheaper than store-bought mixes, and (bonus) your food actually tastes like something. If you’ve ever wanted to stop pretending you know what “Italian seasoning” actually contains, welcome to the club.
Why Make Your Own Spice Blends?
- No mystery ingredients. You know what’s in there (no weird anti-caking agents or suspicious “natural flavorings”).
- Custom flavors. Hate cumin? Leave it out. Obsessed with smoked paprika? Pile it in.
- Freshness. Ground spices lose flavor fast. DIY blends taste better, period.
- Save $$$. Buying spices in bulk = big win for your wallet.
The Essentials: What You Need First
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika (smoked or sweet — your call)
- Black pepper
- Salt
- Chili powder
- Oregano
- Cumin
- Cinnamon (yep, even for savory mixes)
Classic Blend Styles to Try
Taco-Inspired Blends
Bring the flavor of taco night without the sodium bomb packets. Think warm, earthy tones with just enough heat to keep things interesting.
Herb-Heavy Mixes
Like the mystery mix labeled “Italian seasoning” but way more tailored to your taste. Combine basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme to give meals a kick.
Spicy Southern Styles
Whether you go Cajun or Creole, this blend type slaps on anything from grilled shrimp to homemade fries.
Unexpected (But Genius) Blends You Might Love
Sweet ‘n’ Spicy Combos
Cinnamon on chicken? Chili in chocolate? Totally works. Great for sweet potatoes or nut mixes.
Middle Eastern-Inspired Mixes
Sumac, sesame, and thyme bring bold, tangy flavor to roasted meats and hummus toppings.
Everything Bagel-Style
Beyond bagels — this stuff works wonders on eggs, toast, and veggie bowls.
How to Store Your Blends Without Looking Like a Mad Scientist
- Mason jars (aesthetically pleasing)
- Recycled spice jars (eco-friendly)
- Mini Tupperware (chaotic neutral, but it works)
Label your jars or risk mixing cinnamon into your taco seasoning. Store them in a cool, dark spot.
Quick Tips for Spice Blending Like a Pro
- Toast your seeds. It deepens flavor like magic. Then grind them.
- Easy on the salt. Better to add it while cooking than overdo it upfront.
- Date your jars. No one wants year-old mystery powder.
- Taste test as you go. Your tongue knows best.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Probably Get Addicted to This
Once you start blending your own mixes, it’s hard to stop. You’ll start scoffing at $5 seasoning jars like the DIY royalty you now are.
Want a hand figuring out your ratios? There’s a free online calculator that does the math for you.
Now go get mixing. Your spice rack has been bored for way too long.