Let’s start talking about spicing to your taste. You can buy a seasoning blend off the shelf at a grocery or specialty store. The flavor is determined by the manufacturer. You have the choice to use it as it is or modify it to emphasize a flavor(s) you prefer. If you want to flavor it your way you will need to take a look at what individual spices you have on your shelf. Identify the ones you prefer to be stronger flavors in your blend. We are going to look at making an Italian Seasoning your way.
You probably have the basic spices on your shelf to start making your own blends. A very common blend people buy is Italian. The following is a recipe I have for Italian Seasoning used as a starting point:
Italian Seasoning Blend
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons Rosemary Dried
- 1 Tablespoon Sage Dried
- 2 Tablespoons Thyme Dried
- 2 Tablespoons Basil Dried
- 2 Tablespoons Marjoram
- 2 Tablespoons Oregano Dried
Instructions
- In food processor or other type grinder, combine all ingredients, blend for 1 minute, or until desired consistency is achieved.
- Place in a container or shaker to allow use.
Notes
Adjusting the amount needed
If you need more or less, adjust the quantities as needed. For example: 1/4, 1/2, or multiplying the quantity shown in the recipe, creates the desired volume.
Making too much and trying to keep it for a longer period of time, will result in a loss of flavor intensity.
Flavoring To Your Taste
Marjoram is a spice that is less common and can be difficult to find. The recipe can also be made excluding it.
What other flavors could you add to get it to be Flavored Your Way. A couple of examples could be: garlic, onion, salt or other desired flavor.
There is a spice called Savory that can be included in Italian Seasoning blend. It is hard to find in a grocery store, try an online spice company if you would like to try it. Savory is an herb related to Rosemary, Sage, and Mint with a slightly different taste.
Flavored My Way
I like my Italian Seasoning with a stronger presence of the flavors; Oregano and Basil. To get these flavors to stand out, I increase the amount used of each by 1 Tablespoon.
I add the Garlic and Onion powder to the blend to get the flavor I like. 1 Tablespoon of Granulated Garlic and 1 Tablespoon of Onion Powder is added.
I am not a big fan of Sage, I leave it out.
For Stronger Bolder Flavor
Instead of using the dried versions of the spices listed above, obtain the fresh versions of them. Instead of grinding them, mince (very finely dice) them, combine them all together. Add them to the culinary dish you are seasoning. Using fresh ingredients the bolder flavors will not last for long.
Flavor It Your Way
The next time you need Italian Seasoning, make your own. Adjust it the way you think will create the flavor you want. I find it helps to keep track of the changes I make as I try something new. This way if I come up with a new way to make it I really like, I can duplicate it again.