A List of our Most Frequently Used Herbs, Spices and Other Essentials
From the fresh, peppery taste of basil, parsley and mint leaves to the warm tones of nutmeg, cumin and allspice, Mediterranean cuisine is filled with exciting flavors!
However, if you are new to Mediterranean cooking, it can be overwhelming to determine where to start and what is needed to stock your kitchen and pantry. To help you begin your culinary journey, we compiled a list of The Mediterranean Dish’s most frequently used herbs, spices and other essential items. You can find the majority of these items in the larger grocery stores or at Middle Eastern or Eastern European grocery stores. I would also suggest visiting local spice shops that now offer a plethora of spices and oils. And don’t forget about places like World Market; I have found some spices and other ingredients there in the past. And, you can always check out Amazon from the comfort of your desk.
Here is a look at our simply stocked kitchen.
Herbs, Leaves and Fresh Flavors
Mint
Flat leaf/Italian parsley
Cilantro
Basil
Chives
Arugula
Onions
Shallots
Fresh garlic cloves
Limes
In Our Pantry
Tahini sauce (sesame based)
Extra virgin olive oil
Lentils (black, red and yellow)
Bulgur
Couscous
Maftoul (also called Israeli Cuscus)
Short-grain or Egyptian rice
Pasta (Orzo, spaghetti, elbow)
Raisins
Fava beans
Kidney beans
Chick peas
Tomato sauce
Canned diced tomatoes
Canned artichoke hearts
Canned tuna
White vinegar
Balsamic vinegar
Dry red and white wine
Nuts
keep in freezer in tightly closed containers
Pine nuts
Slivered almonds
Shelled pistachios
Shelled walnuts
Our Spice Rack
All spice
Anise seed
Dried bay leaves
Cardamom
Cayenne pepper
Cloves
Coriander
Cumin
Dill weed
Garlic powder
Nutmeg
Oregano
Ras Elhenoot (a Moroccan spice)
Rosemary
Sumac
Thyme
Turmeric
Mild yellow curry
Zataar (a Middle Eastern spice mix with sesame seed and oregano)
Cheeses and other
Feta
Mozzarella
Grated Parmesan
Goat
Black olives
Spicy green olives