Essential Seasonings For Your Kitchen

I looked up several top lists and the one at Bon Appétit magazine I found was the most useful for me.  They also have a few hints about seasonings. Unless you need a larger size, it is best to buy small amounts as the potency of most spices/herbs reduces over a year or two. Also, whenever you use a seasoning, do a smell test to see if you should replace it. You should smell a distinct aroma.

The list below is alphabetical so the order is not indicative of the importance of a seasoning,

If I've written about a particular seasoning, I will link to it.

1. Allspice
2. Apple Pie Spice
3. Basil
4. Bay Leaves
5. Cayenne Pepper
6. Chili Powder
7. Cinnamon - Ground and Stick
8. Cloves
9. Cumin
10. Curry Powder
11. Dill Weed
12. Garlic Powder
13. Ginger - Ground
14. Nutmeg - Ground
15. Onion Powder
16. Oregano
17. Paprika
18. Black Peppercorns
19. Red Pepper Flakes
20. Rosemary
21. Saffron
22. Sage
23. Tarragon
24. Thyme
25. Vanilla - Extract and Beans