A flavorful spice has the power to transform any dish!

Spices can add depth, complexity, and personality to any meal, transforming the chore of cooking and consuming your creations into an experience.

But with so many spices to choose from, it's overwhelming to know where to start. Don't fret though. I got you covered with a list of a few spices that every kitchen should have on hand.

Salt: Salt is a no-brainer and is one of the backbones of good cooking. In moderation, salt enhances the flavor of other ingredients and helps to balance sweetness, bitterness, and acidity. Also, it doesn't hurt that we humans legit require 500mg of sodium daily in order to not die. :)

Black Pepper: Black pepper is another essential spice that adds a warm, pungent flavor to a variety of dishes. It’s a must-have in many spice blends and is commonly used to season soups, stews, sauces, and roasted meats.

Paprika: Paprika is a mild to medium-heat spice that provides a sweet and smoky flavor. It’s used in a wide range of dishes, including stews, chili, barbeque sauces, and it’s a key ingredient in many popular dishes such as Hungarian goulash and Spanish paella.

Cumin: Cumin is a warm and earthy spice that adds a deep, rich flavor to dishes. It’s often used in Mexican, Middle Eastern, and Indian cuisine, and it’s a staple in spice blends like chili powder and garam masala.

Thyme: Thyme is a versatile herb that adds a subtle and delicate flavor to dishes. It’s often used in Mediterranean, French, and American cuisine and pairs well with chicken, fish, and roasted vegetables.

Garlic Powder: Garlic powder provides a pungent and slightly sweet flavor to dishes. It’s used in a variety of savory dishes including sauces, soups, stir-fries, and is a key ingredient in spice blends like Italian seasoning.

Cayenne Pepper: Cayenne pepper is a medium-heat spice that provides a fiery and slightly sweet flavor. It’s often used in spicy dishes, like hot sauce, chili, and Mexican cuisine, and it’s also a key ingredient in many spice blends like Cajun and Creole seasonings.

Everyone knows that if you didn’t create the list, the list’s not right!

So, what are your must-have spices? Which spices could you do without? Which spices send you running to the store at the last minute when you're out?