How Food Is Made: Spice Blends

How Food Is Made: Spice Blends

Title:	Chinese Five Spice
Run Time:	95 seconds
Transcript:	Chinese five spice is a popular spice blend used in Asian cooking. It is based on the five elements of traditional Chinese medicine. Chinese five spice seasoning is believed to balance these elements in the body, preventing or alleviating illness. It also adds tremendous flavor to Asian and Asian-inspired dishes. Here’s how to make Chinese five spice. Begin by assembling the following ingredients: 2 tablespoons of whole fennel seed; 1 tablespoon of whole Sichuan peppercorns; 1½ teaspoon of whole cloves; 6 pieces of whole star anise; and 1 stick of cinnamon. Place all spices in a dedicated spice grinder and grind until the mixture is a fine, even-grained powder. If desired, toast spices individually prior to grinding. Toasting whole spices releases their aroma and gives them a richer flavor. Transfer the ground spices to a bowl and stir until the mixture is thoroughly integrated. Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place. Ground spice blends maintain their freshness for up to a year. Use Chinese five spice in a marinade or as a dry rub for beef, poultry, pork, or tofu. Add it to rice or vegetable stir-fries to impart a distinctive Asian flavor. Use sparingly, as it is quite strong. As with all spice blends, this recipe is simply a starting point. Quantities can be adjusted to suit your palate, and ingredients such as ginger, nutmeg, and galangal can be included for additional flavor.\r\n

Title:	Cinnamon Sugar
Run Time:	73 seconds
Transcript:	Cinnamon sugar is a tasty topping for pies, cookies, oatmeal, pancakes, applesauce, and so much more. With just two ingredients, making cinnamon sugar is simple and straightforward as its name suggests. But balancing the spicy against the sweet requires some finesse. Here’s how to make cinnamon sugar. Begin by assembling the following ingredients: ½ cup of sugar; and 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon. Place the sugar and cinnamon in a bowl and stir until the mixture is thoroughly integrated. Taste, and add more cinnamon if you prefer it more strongly spiced. Add more sugar to reduce the mixture’s strength. Use immediately or transfer the mixture to an airtight container—preferably one with a sprinkling lid—and store in a cool, dry place. Ground spice blends maintain their freshness for up to a year. There are lots of ways to enjoy cinnamon sugar. Try sprinkling it on buttered toast for an easy, tasty treat—for breakfast or anytime.

Title:	Creole Seasoning
Run Time:	85 seconds
Transcript:	Creole seasoning is a blend that combines herbs and spices traditionally used in New Orleans’ Creole cuisine. Creole refers to the descendants of French and Spanish colonial settlers of New Orleans, whose cuisine was influenced by their native taste preferences as well as what was available to them in the New World. Here’s how to make Creole seasoning. Begin by assembling the following ingredients: 3 tablespoons of paprika; 1 tablespoon of sea salt;1 tablespoon of onion powder; 1 tablespoon of garlic powder; 1 tablespoon of dried oregano; 1 tablespoon of dried basil; 1½ teaspoons of dried thyme; 1½ teaspoons of freshly ground black pepper; 1½ teaspoons of white pepper; and 1½ teaspoons of cayenne pepper. Place all ingredients in a bowl and stir until the mixture is thoroughly integrated. Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place. Ground spice blends maintain their freshness for up to a year. Use Creole seasoning on fish or chicken. Add it to a stew, sprinkle it on French fries, or simply mix it with softened butter and fresh parsley to add delicious Creole flavor to vegetables or bread.

Title:	Curry Powder
Run Time:	116 seconds
Transcript:	Curry powder is a general name for a variety of spice blends used as seasonings or as a base for making Indian-inspired dishes. The word curry likely comes from the Tamil word kari, which translates as “sauce laced with combinations of spices.” Curry powder is mostly composed of turmeric, which gives it a distinctive yellow-orange hue. Other ingredients vary but often include cardamom, cinnamon, clove, coriander, cumin, ginger, and black pepper. Here’s how to make curry powder. Begin by assembling the following ingredients: 4½ teaspoons of ground coriander; 2 teaspoons of ground turmeric; 1½ teaspoon of cumin seeds; ½–1 teaspoon of whole black peppercorns; ½–1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes; ½ teaspoon of whole cardamom (with pods removed); ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon of whole cloves; and ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger. Place all spices in a dedicated spice grinder and pulse until the mixture is a fine, even-grained powder. For a stronger aroma and richer flavor, toast whole spices briefly before grinding. Use curry powder immediately or store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Ground spice blends maintain their freshness for up to a year. Use curry powder to add a distinctively Indian flavor to soups, stews, sauces, marinades, meat, and vegetables. As with all spice blends, this recipe is simply a starting point. Quantities can be adjusted to suit your palate, and ingredients such as mace, nutmeg, mustard, fenugreek, or tamarind can be included or substituted to vary the flavor.

Title:	Herbs de Provence
Run Time:	98 seconds
Transcript:	Herbes de Provence is a blend that combines herbs traditionally used in French Provençal cuisine. It is a delicious seasoning that can add a summery Mediterranean flavor to all kinds of meat and vegetables. Here’s how to make herbes de Provence. Begin by assembling the following ingredients: 2 tablespoons of dried rosemary; 1 tablespoon of dried Italian parsley; 1 tablespoon of dried savory; 1 tablespoon of dried thyme; 1 tablespoon of dried basil; 1 tablespoon of dried marjoram; 1½ teaspoons of fennel seed; 1½ teaspoons of dried oregano; 1½ teaspoons of dried tarragon; and ½ teaspoon of bay powder. Pulse rosemary and fennel seeds in a dedicated spice grinder until the herbs have broken down but have not yet become powder. Pour into a bowl and add the remaining herbs. Stir until the mixture is thoroughly integrated. Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place. Herbes de Provence will maintain its freshness for up to a year. As with all seasoning blends, this recipe is simply a starting point. Quantities can be adjusted to suit your palate, and additional ingredients can be included to vary the flavor. In North America, lavender buds are sometimes added to the mix, although they are not a traditional ingredient. If you decide to add lavender, make sure to use buds specifically marked for cooking, and use them sparingly. Herbes de Provence can be used to enliven chicken, steak, and other grilled meats, as well as cooked vegetables, soups, and stews.

Title:	Italian Seasoning
Run Time:	84 seconds
Transcript:	Italian seasoning is a blend that combines herbs traditionally used in Italian cuisine. It is a delicious all-purpose seasoning that can form the basis for a tasty vinaigrette, as well as enliven marinara sauce, spice up a frozen pizza, and so much more. Here’s how to make Italian seasoning. Begin by assembling the following ingredients: 1½ teaspoons of dried oregano; 1 teaspoon of dried marjoram; 1 teaspoon of dried thyme; ½ teaspoon of dried basil; ½ teaspoon of dried rosemary; and ½ teaspoon of dried sage. Place all ingredients in a bowl and stir until the mixture is thoroughly integrated. Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place. Ground spice blends maintain their freshness for up to a year. To use Italian seasoning as the basis for a vinaigrette, combine olive oil and white wine vinegar or lemon juice in your preferred ratios and add Italian seasoning to taste. Whisk thoroughly to combine; then serve and enjoy.\r\n

Title:	Jerk Seasoning
Run Time:	97 seconds
Transcript:	Jerk refers to a style of Caribbean cooking in which a seasoning paste is applied to meat before grilling. Jerk seasoning is typically used as a rub. The rub has a fair amount of heat, which is increased by the traditional but optional addition of Scotch bonnet peppers. Here’s how to make a Jamaican jerk seasoning and rub. Begin by assembling the following ingredients: ¼ cup of light brown sugar; 1 tablespoon of ground allspice; 2 teaspoons of sea salt; 1½ teaspoon of dried thyme; 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper; ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes; ¼ teaspoon of onion powder; ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves; and ¼ teaspoon of ground cumin. Place all ingredients in a bowl and stir until the mixture is thoroughly integrated. Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container and store in the freezer for up to three months. To make a rub, combine 3 tablespoons of dry seasoning with 2 tablespoons of canola oil and 1 tablespoon of distilled white vinegar. For more heat and greater authenticity, add a small amount of minced Scotch bonnet peppers. Rub the mixture onto the meat, allow to rest for an hour or more, and then cook as desired.\r\n

Title:	Kansas City Dry Rub
Run Time:	89 seconds
Transcript:	Kansas City is known for its barbecue, which is characterized by the use of thick sauces that are both tangy and sweet. These flavors can also be applied to meat in the form of a dry rub. This blend imparts so much deliciousness you may not even want the sauce. Here’s how to make Kansas City dry rub. Begin by assembling the following ingredients: 2 tablespoons of brown sugar; 2 tablespoons of ground paprika; 1 tablespoon of white sugar; 1 tablespoon of garlic salt; 1 tablespoon of celery salt; 1 tablespoon of chili powder; 2 teaspoons of freshly ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon of ground cayenne pepper; and ½ teaspoon of dry mustard. Place all ingredients in a bowl and stir until the mixture is thoroughly integrated. Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container and store in the freezer for up to three months. Pork ribs are a classic use, but Kansas City dry rub tastes delicious on chicken, steak, and other pork preparations as well. To use, first season the meat with kosher salt. Then apply the rub, using your hands to press the spices into the meat and ensure even coverage. Let the meat rest for an hour or more before smoking or cooking.\r\n

Title:	Lemon Pepper Seasoning
Run Time:	98 seconds
Transcript:	Lemon pepper seasoning is a versatile spice blend used to add bright, tangy flavor to chicken, fish, vegetables, and more. Here’s how to make lemon pepper seasoning. Begin by assembling the following ingredients: 3 tablespoons of whole black peppercorns; 2 tablespoons of lemon zest; and 1 tablespoon of sea salt. Combine peppercorns and lemon zest on a foil-lined baking sheet. Fold or bunch up the edges of the foil to keep the peppercorns from rolling. Spread out the mixture to ensure even cooking. Place the baking sheet in an oven preheated to 175 degrees Fahrenheit and bake until zest is completely dried—about 45 minutes. Transfer the lemon and pepper mixture to a bowl and allow to cool. Then use a dedicated spice grinder to pulse the mixture until it reaches the preferred texture. Return the mixture to the bowl and stir in sea salt 1 teaspoon at a time to taste. Use immediately or transfer the seasoning to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place. It will remain fresh for several months. Use lemon pepper seasoning in a marinade, add it to a vinaigrette, or simply sprinkle it on meat or vegetables before or after cooking to brighten up the flavor.\r\n

Title:	Poultry Seasoning
Run Time:	77 seconds
Transcript:	Poultry seasoning is a spice blend used to impart a warm, savory flavor to chicken, turkey, and duck. It is also a delicious all-purpose seasoning blend that can give a characteristic “Thanksgiving dinner” flavor to soups, stuffings, and gravies. Here’s how to make poultry seasoning. Begin by assembling the following ingredients: 2 teaspoons of ground sage; 1½ teaspoons of ground thyme; 1 teaspoon of ground marjoram; ¾ teaspoon of ground rosemary; ½ teaspoon of nutmeg; and ½ teaspoon of finely ground black pepper. Place all spices in a bowl and stir until the mixture is thoroughly integrated. Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place. Ground spice blends maintain their freshness for up to a year. Add poultry seasoning to marinades, use as a dry rub, or include as a savory addition to your favorite recipes.

Title:	Ranch Seasoning
Run Time:	84 seconds
Transcript:	Ranch seasoning is a spice blend typically used to season a salad dressing or dip or as part of a marinade. It is also delicious sprinkled on fries or mixed with sour cream for a tangy topper to a baked potato. Here’s how to make ranch seasoning. Begin by assembling the following ingredients: ⅓ cup of powdered dry buttermilk; 2 tablespoons of dried parsley; 1½ teaspoons of dried dill weed; 2 teaspoons of garlic powder; 2 teaspoons of onion powder; 2 teaspoons of dried onion flakes; 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon of dried chives; and 1 teaspoon of sea salt. Place all ingredients in a bowl and stir until the mixture is thoroughly integrated. Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place. Ground seasonings maintain their freshness for up to a year. To use ranch seasoning as the basis for a salad dressing, add 1 tablespoon of seasoning mix to ¼ cup of mayonnaise mixed with ¼ cup of plain yogurt. Whisk thoroughly to combine, adding milk until the mixture has reached your preferred consistency; then serve and enjoy.\r\n

Title:	Southwest Seasoning
Run Time:	80 seconds
Transcript:	Southwest seasoning is a blend that combines herbs and spices traditionally used in the cuisine of the American Southwest. It is a delicious all-purpose seasoning that can be sprinkled on French fries, used as a dry rub for grilled meats, baked into tortillas, and so much more. Here’s how to make Southwest seasoning. Begin by assembling the following ingredients: 2 tablespoons of chili powder; 2 tablespoons of paprika; 1 tablespoon of ground coriander; 1 tablespoon of garlic powder; 1 tablespoon of dried oregano; 2 teaspoons of ground cumin; 2 teaspoons of sea salt; 1 teaspoon of black pepper; and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Place all ingredients in a bowl and stir until the mixture is thoroughly integrated. Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place. Ground spice blends maintain their freshness for up to a year. Use Southwest seasoning as the basis for a marinade, sprinkle it on cooked meats or vegetables, or mix it with sour cream for a flavorful topping for a baked potato.

Title:	Taco Seasoning
Run Time:	78 seconds
Transcript:	Taco seasoning is a spice blend used to give a characteristic flavor to ground beef and other taco meats. It is also a delicious all-purpose seasoning that can be used to give a bit of Mexican zest to a wide variety of dishes. Here’s how to make taco seasoning. Begin by assembling the following ingredients: 1 tablespoon of chili powder; 1½ teaspoon of sea salt; 1 teaspoon of black pepper; ½ teaspoon of paprika; ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon of onion powder; ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes; and ¼ teaspoon of dried oregano. Place all spices in a bowl and stir until the mixture is thoroughly integrated. Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place. Ground spice blends maintain their freshness for up to a year. Add taco seasoning when cooking ground beef or other taco meat, or use it to add Mexican flavor to soups, dressings, or dips.\r\n \r\n