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Spice Racks Buying Guide

A spice  is defined as a dried seed, fruit, root, bark, leaf or vegetative substance used in small quantities as a food additive that can flavour, colour or preserve your foods. Maybe you've collected alot of spices over the years and you aren't sure where to store them, or maybe you are just starting your collection. Whether you prefer oregano  or pumpkin spice , now you can keep all your favourite spices organised and avoid clutter by purchasing a spice rack . There are several different types of spice racks out there on the market. Check out the popular types below and see which one is best for classifying your savoury seasonings.

Types of Racks

Spice Organisation Options

Counter Top Spice Racks 

Pros

  • Great for those who use lots of spices when cooking.
  • Some can be wall mounted.
  • Typically the least expensive type of spice rack.
  • Can be made from wood ,metal , or plastic .

Cons

  • Not recommended if you have a shortage of counter space, unless you find one that can be mounted on the wall.

Cabinet Door Mounted Racks 

Pros

  • This type is a big space saver, as it mounts directly on to most cabinet doors.

Cons

  • If you have children who tend to close doors too hard, avoid this rack or risk spending hours cleaning up spices and glass!
  • Spice labels may get blocked by the rack.

Drawer Spice Racks 

Pros

  • It is rare for spices to break from this method of storage.
  • Spices stay fresh and last longer when not exposed to light.
  • Though they usually fit into any drawer without a problem, they can also be trimmed down with a band saw .

Cons

  • If you buy spices in large jars, this type of rack is not recommended.

Rotating or 'Carousel' Racks 

Pros

  • Rotating spice racks make it super easy to find the spices you want.
  • Usually more stylish than other types.
  • Some rotating spice racks act as dispensers  as well which can measure out 1 ml and 2 ml increments of spices. 

Cons

  • Dispensers have limited capacity and you have to label compartments yourself.

Magnetic Spice Rack 

Pros

  • Magnetic spice racks stick right on to your refrigerator!
  • You can buy a metal plate and mount it anywhere on the wall if you find that putting spices on the fridge results in too much of a mess.

Cons

  • Usually only holds about 20 spices.
  • Not recommended if you have lots of traffic near your fridge.

Spice Essentials

Whether you spend alot of time in the kitchen or you only like to cook once in awhile, check out the below list of spices you should always have in your home. And remember, everything is calorie and fat free!

Chili Powder 

This is a great way to add spice to your dishes as it is typically derived from red  or cayenne peppers . It can be used in Indian cuisine  or Mexican dishes.

Cinnamon 

This spice is often used in baking and desserts , but can also be sprinkled on top of toast  or cereal .

Garlic Powder 

Garlic is used in just about any type of cooking, and if you don't have the time to go out and buy a fresh bulb, pour on some powder. Just remember, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder is equivalent to one clove of garlic.

Ginger 

This pungent spice can be used in baking as well as in Indian recipes or Chinese cuisine .

Onion Powder 

Onions can add a spicy sweetness to any type of cuisine or can be eaten pickled . If you are looking to add a little seasoning to your dish without making yourself cry, pick up some white, red or yellow onion powder.

 

Oregano 

When dried, the leaves of the aromatic oregano plant are often used in Italian  and Greek cooking .

Parsley 

While parsley is mostly used as a garnish, it can also be used to flavour soups  and sauces .

Pepper 

This popular spice can add flavour to just about any dish; it is often used during cooking and as a light seasoning.

Rosemary 

This is an herb with a strong scent and taste used to season many Mediterranean cuisines .

Salt 

Just about everyone needs a little extra salt on their food from time to time. Whether it be french fries  or steak , salt can add a richer, moist taste to just about any food.

 

Related Guides

Pepper Mills

You can have fresh ground pepper right in your home with this nifty little gadget.  It is easy to use and can be stored right in your kitchen.

Gadgets for Specific Foods

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Indoor Herb Gardens

Looking to grow your own herbs right in your home? This guide will show you how.

Pantry and Cabinet Organisation

Figuring out where to put everything in your cooking area can be a daunting task. Remember, an organised system is key!

Food Processors

These can be useful for just about anything, from slicing to shredding to mixing.