There are three reasons I began making my own seasoning mixes—and why you might want to start too.
Reason No. 1
To avoid the unnecessary additives commonly found in mass-produced seasonings. Store-bought spice blends often include anti-caking agents and vague ingredients labeled as “natural flavor.” When you blend your own seasonings at home, you control every ingredient: just the herbs and spices you choose, without silicon dioxide, hydrolyzed soy or corn protein, or other fillers. Homemade mixes are simple, transparent, and made from real, pure ingredients.
Reason No. 2
Making your own spice blends is much more economical. A single small container of a prepared mix can cost several dollars; multiply that by the dozen or so blends many pantries hold and the expense adds up quickly. Buying whole spices in bulk and combining them yourself saves money in the long run. Store spices in a cool, airtight container to preserve freshness. Purchasing from reputable suppliers that prioritize sustainably or organically grown herbs is ideal, but even buying individual packets from a grocery store and blending them at home will cut costs compared with pre-made blends.
Reason No. 3
Having a handful of favorite mixes ready saves time and simplifies meal prep. Over the years I found six blends I use frequently; pre-mixing them means I can finish recipes faster and toss together quick dressings or rubs on a moment’s notice. For example, a few tablespoons of a homemade ranch seasoning added to mayonnaise, sour cream, and yogurt creates a ready-to-use dressing in minutes. Convenience and consistency are major advantages of keeping homemade seasonings on hand.
Once you get into the habit of blending your own spices, you’ll appreciate the flavor control, reduced additives, and cost savings. Start with a few basic blends you use most often, store them properly, and adjust recipes to suit your taste.
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