The Intentional Pantry
For those of us who are organization obsessed there is nothing better than the feeling of looking at a recently decluttered, tidily arranged space. However, you may have noticed that even after decluttering and perfectly organizing, you feel that it won't last, or that things still aren't quite right. That unsettled feeling has been creeping into my home lately and I simply couldn't figure out what was wrong-- until I remembered the words of Marie Kondo-- its not about the things you are getting rid of, but about the things you are keeping. So, when I recently decided to declutter...
Max's Spiced Cocoa Mix
This cocoa mix is inspired by traditional Oaxacan spiced cocoa, but with a few modifications to add some variety and make it easier to throw together. The type of cocoa will have a big impact on the final flavor and consistency, so choose wisely (or use whatever you have in the house!). I like to use 75% Ghiradelli cocoa and 25% Black or "Dutch Processed" cocoa which gives a more pudding-like flavor and a darker color. Mix together in a quart-size Mason Jar: 1 cup Cocoa Powder 1.5 cups Sugar (Organic sugar tends to have a better flavor) 2 t ...
Cleaning your AllSpice Rack
Top 12 Japanese Spices You Should Know!
Japanese cooking can be a daunting enterprise for a western cook with its exotic array of ingredients, methods, and tools. We can’t explain all of that today, but we can give you a crash course on the top 12 flavors you should definitely know to get started! Dry Ingredients To our dismay, you are unlikely to find a spice rack in a traditional Japanese kitchen. Japanese chefs use very few dried herbs or spices, instead developing flavors from fresh ingredients, seaweeds, pastes, and liquid condiments. That being said, there are a few critical dried materials that have become essential to...
Freshen your spice rack for spring!
Step 1- Gather all of your spices in one place. Don't forget about bulk bags and spices stored in the refrigerator or freezer Step 2- Purge any spices that are expired or that you no longer use. Don't feel guilty about throwing things out, it just makes room for new spices!Step 3- Wipe down your jars, lids and spice rack frame. Use a damp washcloth with a small bit of mild soap for grease.Step 4- Refill any jars that are low or empty. The AllSpice Spice Funnel will make this quick and easy. Step 5- Replace spices in a logical order.Most people alphabetize their...